Jillian Rose Banks, who goes by the mononym BANKS, releases her third lead single, “Love Is Unkind,” ahead of her upcoming new album Off With Her Head. Blending alt-pop and contemporary R&B, the synth-heavy track is entrancing from front to back. Speaking about the new track, BANKS says,
“’Love Is Unkind’ is about an emotionally dangerous relationship that had me running around in circles. It’s about how love can be unkind and masochistic. Rewinding your memory and seeing things clearly.”
After recently celebrating the 10-year anniversary of her album Goddess, BANKS is returning to her roots once again, enlisting the help of the core group of musicians and producers that helped shape her debut. The moody and emotionally charged sound has made her one of the torchbearers of “dark R&B,” drawing comparisons to artists such as Aaliyah, The Weeknd, and 6lack.
“Love Is Unkind” continues a staple theme in BANKS’ songwriting of confronting the uncomfortable aspects of relationships that people usually like to avoid. Self-doubt, betrayal, and regret are some of the feelings that BANKS touches on, which help create such raw and emotionally-charged lyrics.
BANKS’ fifth studio album, Off With Her Head, is set for release on February 28, 2025. Listen to “Love Is Unkind” now: