WPGM Recommends: Bonnie Medicine – Belonging (EP Review)

Hailing from the scenic and mystical landscapes of Scotland, Bonnie Medicine’s latest EP, Belonging, arrives as a timely beacon of hope, connection, and healing.

In a world increasingly divided and fragmented, Belonging, offers a musical sanctuary – a place to reconnect with both the earth and each other. This five-track release is a testament to Bonnie’s unique ability to weave Celtic folk traditions with soulful lyricism, creating an experience that feels as intimate as it is universally uplifting.

From the very first note, Bonnie’s voice wraps itself around the listener like a comforting embrace, inviting them into a world of spiritual depth and grounding melodies. Belonging, is a pilgrimage – a journey through grief, joy, strength, and the shared human desire for peace and unity. Bonnie delivers this pilgrimage with a voice that resonates deeply within the soul, each word and note carefully chosen to stir both reflection and action.

The EP opens with the anthemic “We Belong,” which is as much a rallying cry as it is a heartfelt anthem. Bonnie’s soaring vocals lead the charge, her lyrics “We belong, we belong, together as one” offering a powerful reminder of the innate human need for connection.

The track’s infectious melody and uplifting message resonate deeply, especially in times of uncertainty, as Bonnie sings of belonging not just to each other, but to the Earth itself. The repetition of the chorus makes it an anthem, and its positive, healing energy shines through, providing an immediate sense of solace for the listener.

“Holy Trees” continues the EP’s exploration of connection—this time with the natural world. A tender love song to the towering trees that stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, the track takes on an almost reverent quality. The sound of rustling percussion and delicate guitar strokes blend with Bonnie’s angelic vocals, as she reflects on the wisdom of nature: “Into the old ways, the ancient days / Where we could feel the mountain’s prayers.”

There is an ethereal quality to her voice, particularly when she sings, “Holy trees, giving me everything I need,” a line that perfectly encapsulates the song’s reverence for nature as both a source of wisdom and a place of solace. The inclusion of old Celtic folklore adds depth to the song, creating a palpable sense of grounding and spiritual connection.

Moving deeper into the EP, “Heartbroken” and “Warriors” explore the emotional complexity of human existence. “Heartbroken” introduces a more sombre tone, but it also carries a message of resilience.

Bonnie’s vulnerability in this track is striking, as she sings about the weight of loss and the necessity of embracing both our wounds and our healing. The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting arrangement create an atmosphere of raw emotion, further amplifying the sincerity in Bonnie’s voice.

In contrast, “Warriors” is a stirring anthem of empowerment, filled with energy and purpose. The track picks up momentum with the addition of piano and strings, creating a sweeping sense of motion that matches Bonnie’s message of collective strength.

“We are warriors / Bringing love to all life,” she sings with passion and determination. This is a call to action—a reminder that we have the power to choose love over fear, to fight for justice, and to stand firm in the face of adversity. The delicate interplay between the strings, percussion, and guitar provides a lush sonic backdrop for Bonnie’s commanding vocals, creating a track that feels both inspiring and deeply moving.

Belonging, culminates in the poetic, reflective track “Wild Bodies,” a fitting conclusion to the journey. With a more spoken-word style, Bonnie offers a tribute to femininity, earthiness, and the divine.

The track’s lyrical beauty and sensuality are enhanced by a subtle arrangement of guitar and voice, which slowly builds to a stunning crescendo before tapering off into silence. The bittersweet ending of, Belonging, lingers long after the final note has faded, leaving the listener in a state of peaceful contemplation.

What sets, Belonging, apart is not just its melodic beauty, but its profound sense of purpose. Bonnie Medicine has crafted an EP that is both deeply personal and politically charged. Each track is a call to action, urging listeners to remember their roots, reconnect with the Earth, and stand in solidarity with one another.

Her commitment to social justice, collective healing, and environmental stewardship is evident in every note, making this collection of tracks not only a work of art but also a powerful tool for awakening and transformation.

Bonnie’s voice is an instrument of healing. Through her evocative lyrics and haunting melodies, she has created an EP that nourishes both the soul and the mind. Belonging, serves as a reminder that music is not just a form of entertainment, but a form of activism—one that has the power to heal, inspire, and unite us all.

Whether you are seeking solace, empowerment, or simply a deeper connection to the world around you, Bonnie Medicine’s Belonging will guide you on that journey.

In a world that so often feels divided, Belonging, offers a refuge – a space where love, unity, and healing can thrive. With lush instrumentation, evocative lyricism, and a voice that speaks to the heart, the EP is a movement. And for those who seek music that transcends the ordinary and speaks directly to the soul, Belonging, is an absolute must-listen.

Listen to Bonnie Medicine’s Belonging EP below and stream it everywhere else here.

Words by Danielle Holian

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