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Born in 1987, Kayus Bankole was raised in both the US and Nigeria. He eventually returned to his hometown of Edinburgh for high school, where he crossed paths with Alloysious Massaquoi. Together with Graham “G” Hastings, they formed the hip-hop group Young Fathers. In 2014, their debut album Dead was released, earning them the prestigious Mercury prize. They have since dropped albums titled White Men Are Black Men Too, Cocoa Sugar, and Heavy Heavy in the past year. Bankole currently resides in Edinburgh. As headliners of the BBC Radio 6 Music Festival, Young Fathers (in collaboration with the NIA community choir) will perform from March 7 to 10 in Greater Manchester.
1. Documentary
The generation of Coconut Head (directed by Alain Kassanda).
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A group of students at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria have established a regular film club where they gather to openly discuss controversial subjects such as politics, race, feminism, and modern lifestyle. As a Nigerian with strong cultural ties and fluency in the language, I found it intriguing to witness young individuals engaging in conversations about topics and taboos that older generations may not feel at ease addressing. One particularly thought-provoking discussion focused on family life and household responsibilities, sparking an interesting dialogue about what tasks should be designated to whom.
2. Photographer
Giles Duley
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Giles Duley’s talents extend beyond photography; he is also a chef, writer, and presenter. His exceptional work with the charity Legacy of War was born from his experience in Afghanistan, leading him to establish the foundation to aid those impacted by conflict. One of his most striking contributions is his series of revisited portraits where he captures the passage of time and its effects on his subjects. The side-by-side comparisons of a mother in Lebanon, taken years apart, serve as a powerful visual representation of the changes and endurance of the human spirit.
3. Art
The Liverpool Biennial 2023 presents uMoya: The Sacred Return of Lost Things.
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Last year, I attended this event right before heading out on a journey. A friend invited me to join him as he was driving to Liverpool for some meetings. The biennial was put together by Khanyisile Mbongwa, who is not only an artist but also a performer and sangoma – a healer in traditional beliefs. As I viewed the diverse art pieces, I noticed a seamless connection among them. One artist, Guadalupe Maravilla, focused on the themes of healing and spirituality. I was particularly struck by a stunning sculpture he created using indigenous materials and volcanic rock.
4. Food
Bongou Cafe, Edinburgh
Bongou Cafe is operated by an exceptional Nigerian woman named Tosin, who hails from my hometown in Ogun State. She takes great pride in her Nigerian identity and preserves the authenticity of the menu by using traditional names such as “ata rodo.” My personal favorite is the akara falafel wrap with rich avocado and spicy sauce, and the soups are also incredibly delicious. But it’s more than just a cafe to me – it’s a gathering place for our community. If you’re lucky, you may even have the chance to play chess with Tosin’s son. The atmosphere is welcoming and cozy, making it feel like I’m heading to my sister’s house for a delicious meal.
5. Book
House of Bondage by Ernest Cole
While traveling, I make it a point to locate and visit nearby galleries, unsure of what I may encounter. It is a great way to stay inspired and break out of the dull routine of checking sound, performing, sleeping, and repeating. During one of these excursions, I discovered the striking work of Magnum photographer Ernest Cole, showcasing the segregation present in South Africa during apartheid. His images include powerful depictions of young incarcerated black men. Cole’s work is unapologetically raw, capturing the truth. It can be easy to lose sight of the humanity of those we photograph in difficult circumstances, but in every one of his photographs, their humanity remains intact.
6. Album
Jerusalem by Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou
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A friend of mine from Los Angeles was playing her music and I used Shazam to identify it. I’ve always believed that the best way to connect with someone is through vocals, but hearing her play the piano was the most emotionally moved I’ve ever been from listening to someone play an instrument. It felt like the entire room was filled with the music. I felt like I could understand the emotions of uncertainty, passion, and love. That album has become my go-to choice for listening while taking walks or working out. There’s just something about it that captivates me.
Source: theguardian.com
