J.P. BIMENI & THE BLACKBELTS
Give Me Hope (Lovemonk)
J.P. Bimeni has seen a lot of conflict in his life, yet the Burundian singer, who finally found refuge in Wales, remains optimistic. Give Me Hope, the second album with his six-piece band the Blackbelts, pays respect to the vocalist’s influences, which include such greats as Ray Charles and Otis Redding.
The Blackbelts’ sound is a mixture of afro-funk, soul and light reggae, and is heavy on the saxophone. Songs such as Precious Girl have a strong Motown vibe whereas the title track and single release channels The Wailers. J.P. Bimeni describes the album as an exploration of his “journey to self-discovery and healing”; his lyrics deal with pain – personal and universal – and survivor’s guilt, and you can sense his longing to go home.
Though Give Me Hope carries a lot of weight, it is an upbeat, shoulder-swaying album that’s just right for sunny days.
words LYNDA NASH