Durand Bernarr releases new album, “BLOOM”
- Charmaine Swasey
- May 20
- 3 min read
GRAMMY-nominated R&B/Pop singer, songwriter Durand Bernarr graces listeners with elegance, sensibility, and vibrancy in his new album, BLOOM, which he calls, “My public love letter.”
Photo of Durand Bernard by durandbernarr.com.
The Cleveland, Ohio-born artist delivers a warm, smooth tone alongside a composed demeanor, accompanied by playful melodies and artful lyrics that manifest throughout all 17 tracks of the album. Moreover, in his own words, Bernarr describes BLOOM as “a heartfelt tribute to the love that exists beyond romance- the love found in friendship, self-discovery, and the communities that help us grow.”
Such as these lyrics: “No more illusion, delusions, confusions, so you can be choosin,’” from Burnarr’s track, “Jump.” These lyrics express the powerful ability for one to step out of their comfort zone and to embrace the difficulties that come after that step is initiated. Bernarr repeats this lyric in his most tender, free-flowing voice, like a rapturous encouragement intended to show that once one can stop longing for something and start acting on achieving it that they will eventually feel at ease with themselves. Thus, this idea may be present in these lyrics: “Desire feels good, but discipline will save you.”
Furthermore, the album includes tracks that follow a reinforcement of overpowering the dark side of love. Not just the romantic side of it, but in other forms as well, like friendship or family. Such as, “Unspoken.” The lyrics strongly air the devastation and sudden weight of being the fool in what was once thought as a trusted relationship. For instance, these lyrics: “I can't believe you held me up. Just to body-slam me down. Can't believe you gave it all. Just to end up backing out,” is one of several in the track which contribute to that message.
“No Business” is another track similar to the former which starts with a blissful lull before a rhythmic pulse takes place. Furthermore, the recurring use of the phrase, “trippin’”in the fifth verse of the song emphasizes the feeling of being spellbound by all the sweet-like qualities of the person, then the ultimate wake-up-call which comes after realizing that person may not be the right one to give all devotion towards.
Additionally, a chorus in the track “PSST!” delivers a striking back beat that appreciates the Rhythm and Blues genre. This song begins and continues with a swanky, jazzy beat along with Bernarr’s soulful vocals. Following this is a psychedelic trumpet beat that carries the lyrics witty storyline of a holler for a confidential or private conversation, hence the subtle cry, “Psst!” Thus, this set of lyrics highly compliments the intimate understanding between two partners: “We're reflections, extensions of each other. I keeps my word and, yes, I, I keeps my brother.”
Lastly, Bernarr’s track, “Completed,” takes on a softer tone that speaks the messages of togetherness and the acceptance to let others in. This also marks a personal reflection for Berrar which includes his value for the people in his life who have and still support his music career. For instance, the lyrics: “Now we're on the same page. Took space to hold space. Gave grace to give grace. Walk together, keeping pace,” carries a nurturing and tender air. Altogether, a relaxed guitar strum along with Bernarr’s rich vocals stretching his delivery of each verse supports the song’s gentle tone that blissfully corresponds to the album’s title which is the feeling of blooming.
