Banks at Exhibition White City
For those unfamiliar with Banks, it may come as a surprise that the singer-songwriter has played several shows in our capital since her debut record, Goddess (2014). The Californian has been gradually making waves in our beloved city, performing at the O2 Arena as a support act for The Weeknd with her blend of electronic, hip-hop, and R&B.
In a performance without any live instruments bar a keyboard, but replete with dancers and a powerhouse set of vocals that have remained compelling throughout her career, Banks remains on top form.
The Off with her Head tour reflects a theatrical style, complete with white hanging masks hanging on stage, while each set is divided into five acts. Introducing the first act is Guillotine from her latest LP, a short synth-infused melody that sets the tone well for the remainder of the show. Follow-up Love is Unkind embodies Banks’s ability to create catchy melodies with a heavy bass flow. The empowering mantra-led Fuck with Myself pumps the energy, while Gemini Feed continues the propulsive beats, as everyone chants “we were so depressive”. Taking a slight break to have an exchange with her fans, Banks professes that London “is my absolute favourite place to play”; even her first EP was named after the capital.
The highly danceable Move (feat Yseult) – reminiscent of the likes of Troye Sivan – is another standout, continually showcasing not only Banks’s ability to dance and sing well, but also exhibiting her joy on stage, which is reciprocated through the crowd. Softer tracks like Someone New provide a respite, as the singer returns to her musical instrument roots, determined to play some stripped-back tunes. Powerful throwback Drowning teasingly lures us into the artist’s world, with a gorgeous keyboard medley, before transforming into the badass classic it is, as everyone sings “you are not deserving, you are not deserving”, pouring their heart and soul into each lyric, never failing to produce chills.
Through River, the singer shows what she’s about, unadulterated lyrics carried by sensual vocals, while Make It Up (feat Sampha) proves that Banks is an artist who can collaborate with a range of artists.
Tonight’s denouement comes in the form of Beggin’ for Thread and I Hate Your Ex, but arrives at a sudden and abrupt finish, putting an end to an otherwise good gig.
Selina Begum
Image: Courtesy of Banks
For further information and future events, visit Banks’s website here.
Watch the video for Teardrop here:
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