I had the pleasure of attending a Jamie N Commons set at the Showbox – Market on January 16, 2019 in Seattle. They opened for the impeccable Nigerian-born Jacob Banks. Just as a good appetizer sets the mood for a good meal, Jamie N Commons set the stage for Jacob Banks.
Jamie N Commons has a great voice. Along with Jeff, his keyboardist and backup vocalist, Jamie creates a blend of southern rock and soul. The set was enjoyable and his chemistry with the crowd was impeccable. He challenged the crowd to sing along to his song “Is Your Love Still Strong?”, and they happily obliged. The audience loved him so much that they sighed in disappointment when he announced his last song.
His eight-song set was nowhere near long enough, but I particularly enjoyed “Paper Dreams”, “Closer” and “A Change”. If you have not yet listened to Jamie N Commons, I suggest you do. I know I am looking forward to seeing them again and I am hoping for a headline tour soon!
If you have read any of my past reviews you know I am a huge fan of Jacob Banks. He is absolutely brilliant. His concerts are powerful. I do not know how he manages to give each song 100% and still make it appear effortless at the same time. His voice evokes so much emotion. This does come through on his records but it is overwhelming in person. If you are a fan and have not heard him live, I highly suggest you do so before he grows into playing arenas. There is something magical about listening to a voice like his from just a few feet away.
Not only are his lyrics poetic, they are relatable. I was in awe most of the concert but a standout moment for me would be when he sang the hook of “Silver Lining”. It is my favorite love song. It did not hurt that I was standing next to Aaron, who I will be walking down the aisle towards, when his broke into this song. It was a very special moment for me. If you happen to be reading this Jacob, please release this song on vinyl someday!
If you have read any of my past reviews you know I am a huge fan of Jacob Banks. He is absolutely brilliant. His concerts are powerful. I do not know how he manages to give each song 100% and still make it appear effortless at the same time. His voice evokes so much emotion. This does come through on his records but it is overwhelming in person. If you are a fan and have not heard him live, I highly suggest you do so before he grows into playing arenas. There is something magical about listening to a voice like his from just a few feet away.
Not only are his lyrics poetic, they are relatable. I was in awe most of the concert but a standout moment for me would be when he sang the hook of “Silver Lining”. It is my favorite love song. It did not hurt that I was standing next to Aaron, who I will be walking down the aisle towards, when he broke into this song. It was a very special moment for me. If you happen to be reading this Jacob, please release this song on vinyl someday!
The most powerful moment of the night for me was when he sang his single, “Slow Up”. He appeared to be lost in the emotion just as much as the crowd. There is something haunting about a powerful black man singing “Wear your afro like your backbone” while a mixed crowd sings along. It was beautiful.
Jacob Banks is a true artist and his concerts are truly an unique experience. I have seen him three times now and each time I am blown away by how intense his voice is live. I plan on seeing him every time he plays in Seattle, I strongly suggest you snag tickets as well!
