CaRiMi returns with their sophomore album “Nasty Bizinis,” a vibrant collection that dives deep into the themes of love, betrayal, and personal challenges, all wrapped up in a bold Konpa rhythm infused with a dash of urban flair. Departing from the sentimental norms of Konpa music, CaRiMi incorporates a slight gangster attitude, exploring complex relational dynamics with notable expertise.
Album Composition: “Nasty Bizinis” comprises 10 original tracks interspersed with three interludes, demonstrating the band’s matured artistic vision and lyrical prowess. Notably, alongside lead singer Mickael Guirrand, members Richard Cavé and Carlo Vieux also showcase their vocal talents. Guest appearances by Michael Benjamin and Rated R add an extra layer of depth and variety to the album.
Lyrical Themes: The album’s lyrics traverse a spectrum of experiences—from dealing with player-hating and overprotective partners to navigating long-distance relationships and confronting romantic betrayal. A standout track, “Pitit sa,” approaches the sensitive topic of paternal bond with a child not biologically one’s own, blending humor with poignancy. Another highlight, “Por Favor,” seduces with its sultry rhythms and Richard’s evocative vocals, portraying deep romantic longing.
Musicality and Production: While the album excels in its thematic boldness and vocal variety, it occasionally suffers from redundancy in melody and rhythm. Many tracks predictably echo previous ones, lacking distinctiveness after the initial verses. However, the production shines on tracks like “Manman cita,” which pairs a compelling beat with imaginative lyrical content, though its attempt to mirror R&B stylings falls slightly short of expectations.
Standout Tracks: The title track “Nasty Bizinis,” featuring Michael Benjamin, serves as the album’s centerpiece. It’s an assertive response to the cynicism and competitiveness within the Haitian Music Industry, delivered over an irresistibly upbeat and danceable rhythm. In contrast, “Mwen Sou” by Carlo Vieux is a beautifully executed piece that distinctly stands out for its emotional depth and vocal delivery.
Conclusion: While “Nasty Bizinis” showcases CaRiMi’s potential and marks a significant step in their artistic evolution, it does not consistently deliver the freshness expected from such a dynamic ensemble. The album’s exploration of urban themes through a Konpa lens is commendable, but a greater variation in melody and a deeper exploration into genre-blending could have elevated this project further. Nonetheless, CaRiMi’s “Nasty Bizinis” is a commendable effort, earning a solid B rating and 3.5 stars for its bold thematic content and strong vocal performances, making it a worthy listen for fans and newcomers alike.
