Jorja Smith carries herself with grace far beyond her years. In an age when internet streaming and rampant capitalism has so often reduced pop music to cheap spectacle, the 27-year-old R&B singer wields a refreshing gravitas and a keen palette; she is capable of both ruminating on and dancing away her troubles.

On stage at The Anthem recently, she eschewed elaborate set design or dramatic choreography in favor of a big band arrangement that showcased the musical craft and emotional intensity of her songs. In DC for the first time in many years, Jorja’s heady songwriting and powerful voice moved fans to cry tears and shake ass in equal measure.