MS BANKS
South LDN Lover Girl (Hargo Productions)
Poetry, rap, lyricism, and a South London accent combine at the hands of Ms Banks on an album – her debut, with four mixtapes in 12 years to her name – that’s empowering, energetic, political and raw, all at once. On South LDN Lover Girl, powerful r’n’b vocals compliment witty rhymes, with something catchy and addictive emerging.
The commentary throughout the album illuminates Ms. Banks’ political worldview through statements about racial injustice and the everyday discrimination the Black community face. Why, an emotional retelling of how she overcomes hate and external pressures, feels particularly important in this respect, and the intersection between racism and sexism is explored in a refreshing and enlightening way – take the line “It’s hard being a woman, let alone one that is black” for a standout example. An album as relatable as it’s meaningful, Ms Banks is uplifting Black women in South London – and everywhere.
words AMY FORD
