May 19, 2016
Wu-Tang Clan producer RZA and Interpol lead singer Paul Banks announced the title of their collaborative project yesterday: Banks & Steelz. Now the odd couple have debuted their first single "Love + War," featuring Wu-Tang Clan member Ghostface Killah.
While we've known for a while now that RZA and Banks were intent on working together, yesterday's announcement of their new moniker and today's debut of "Love + War," is the first we've heard from them in a while.
In an interview with RollingStone back in 2013 RZA discussed the catalyst for the odd couple coming together.
My manager came to me and said, ‘Who do you want to do an album with?’ I said, ‘Well, Paul just has an energy about him. I think if we put our sandwich together it will be great ... very, very different than what I do, but very unique and very peculiar
Unique and peculiar indeed. "Love + War," sees Banks singing a wistful hook over a horn ensemble and uptempo hip hop beat while RZA and Ghostface Killah trade verses. You can check out the single and decide for yourself below.
RZA and Paul Bank have also confirmed that a full length Banks & Steelz LP is in the works and the duo are set to perform at Austin City Limits and FYF fest.
Image: Pitchfork