Act: Bemz
Album: Nova’s Dad

How it sounds: If Bemz’ last EP M4 was about trying to forge ahead in his music career, then Nova’s Dad examines why that propulsion actually matters. At the centre of the lyrics is his daughter Nova, and his bold move to build a better life for both himself and for her. On that strong thematic backbone he builds a deeply personal character study of failing mental health, his hunger for fame, and the haphazard journey to become a better man. There are harsher beats on here like ‘RAGING BULL’ and the unashamedly horny club banger ‘Zidane’, but the majority of Nova’s Dad finds Bemz deftly balancing earnestness and good humour on his most reflective work to date. He teased Nova’s Dad in an interview with us in 2022, saying, ‘I’ve got a project in the works. It really should be an album, but I can’t afford to record it or promote it like an album. I’m hoping that after I drop this, it opens a lot of people’s eyes to how diverse my sound is. Maybe then I get some funding behind me and actually create a full body of work.’ Given the quality and openheartedness of the bars here, we’d say he’s delivered on that promise. 

Top track: ‘We Move’, an almost painfully frank discussion of loneliness and his desperation to do right by his family. 

Do you come here often? This is Bemz’ second nomination, having been nominated last year for his EP 26.

Why it should win: Shedding machismo has cracked Bemz lyrics wide open, pushing him in new and intriguing directions. His much-anticipated debut album will be something special. 

The SAY Award winner will be announced on Thursday 26 October.