Dublin firebrand Rejjie Snow gears up to release his long-awaited debut, ‘Dear Annie’, with a string of singles showcasing Grammy-winner Rahki’s drunk-jazz production and Rejjie’s dry, erudite delivery. Irish rap might catch you by surprise, but there’s a familiar and transatlantic feel to Rejjie Snow, in tune with downbeat political artists like Vince Staples and the surrealism of Kool AD. An introspective and cautious figure with little apparent interest in the trappings of fame, nonetheless the underground talent has drawn the approval and backing of luminaries like Kaytranada, Kendrick and, strangely enough, Madonna. With a New York residency in March and a few choice shows throughout April – selling out quickly – it’s a choice moment to witness a growing phenomenon stretching his boundaries and coming into his own.

Fri 21 Apr, 7pm at O2 Institute, 78 High Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 6DY, £13.50. seetickets.com