It’s been a wee bit since we heard something from Bemz, who came racing out the blocks in 2018 with his lively 3-track EP Life alongside long-time collaborator and producer Axor. Nigerian-born but a mainstay in the Glasgow for several years now, he’s built a reputation for atmospheric, vibes-heaby rap. Earlier this year, he paired up with fellow Scottish MC Napalmz, Fusion Entertainment producer Panashe and the Glasgow-based fashion brand Goldie Lifestyle to put out a single called "Goldie." But Bemz wasn’t idle in between and we’re finally getting the chance to hear what he’s been up to: Saint of Lost Causes.
The EP’s opening track "Bando2Studio" and closing track "Quarantine" are the result of Bemz’s familiar pairing with Axor, but the two artists bring a freshness to the tracks after almost a decade of making music together. That’s where any preconceived notions about old partnerships, old flows and old sounds should sound like end. Bemz reached out to several producers and artists for this project. After two years of careful and considered work with his peers, Saint of Lost Causes is a demonstration of how well-chosen collaborations can make a positive difference.
The remaining tracks - "What It Seems," "Flex" and "Who Dem" - feature bars from some of the UK’s celebrated and up-and-coming artists: Kobi Onyame, Oyakhire, Hamz, Paque and Cold North and production from Steven Simpson and Connor Logan. Despite all these new contributors - or rather because of them - Bemz sits comfortably amongst his peers with the calm but confident delivery of someone who knows they’ve arrived. I don’t say that lightly: others are recognising his ability, with tracks from Saint of Lost Causes receiving radio play from Vic Galloway on BBC Introducing and the new EP being covered on blogs like Tenement TV and Bella Caledonia. With its ear-worm synth hook, "Suddenly" is the stand out track. Producer Connor Logan brings a lighthearted Arfobeat vibe to the track that fits well with Bemz’s lyrics and guest contributor Kobi Onyame’s bounce.
Delaina Sepko
Saint of Lost Causes is out now
