Performer: BANNERS

BANNERS, a.k.a. Michael Nelson, has drawn comparisons to Chris Martin of Coldplay. (Contributed)

Type of music: Alternative rock, pop

About:  If you hope to catch a rising star at SlossFest, BANNERS – that is, Michael Nelson – is one not to miss.

Born in Liverpool, England, Nelson has something else in common with The Beatles: His talent was quickly recognized.

Nelson grew up singing with the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral Choir and performed with the group in several locations throughout Europe. (Sir Paul McCartney made his first major foray into classical music with the choir on “Liverpool Oratorio” in 1991.)

Spotify included BANNERS on its Spotlight list as “One of the Top 15 Artists to Watch in 2016.” His music conveys a sensitivity and tone reminiscent of Chris Martin, some music lovers have noted. BANNERS’ first extended-play recording was released in January and, shortly thereafter, Capitol Records released the soundtrack to the “The Royals” TV series, which includes BANNERS’ “Half Light.”

BANNERS’ third single, “Start a Riot,” was released in December and charted on Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs.

You can follow BANNERS on Facebook and Instagram.

Discography: “BANNERS.”

You might have heard: “Start A Riot,” “Back When We Had Nothing,” “Shine a Light,” “Ghosts” and “Gold Dust.”

Playing at SlossFest: BANNERS will perform on the Steam stage Sunday, July 17, 3-3:45 p.m.

Sloss Music and Arts Festival takes place at the historic Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham July 16-17 and features 34 performers on three stages. Tickets can be purchased here.