Jinte Deprez embarked on his second solo album, under his moniker J. Bernardt, with a vivid image in his head: “The main character is a John Lennon wannabe who wants to play Twin Peaks. In the background, Tarantino waves a Tchaikovsky record at the film composer and shouts, ‘Make it viciously romantic!’, I don’t know if it turned out that way…” Despite the whimsical imagery, the album, titled ‘Contigo’ (Spanish for ‘with you’), emerged as a serious endeavour, serving as a therapeutic outlet for Deprez to navigate the aftermath of a long term relationship break-up. ‘Contigo’ delves into the emotional rollercoaster of heartbreak, exploring stages from shock to acceptance with a blend of drama and sophistication. Best known for his role in Balthazar, Deprez’s solo project allowed him to both focus and expand his musical vision. ‘Contigo’ draws on a diverse range of influences, including pop, soul, funk and Spaghetti Western soundtracks, reflecting Deprez’s love for artists like Serge Gainsbourg or Ennio Morricone. The album serves as a soundtrack for lost and wounded lovers, narrated with both heartache and resilience, capturing Deprez’s personal journey with a blend of melancholy and humour. Through ‘Contigo’, Deprez channels his feelings into a rich and multifaceted work, revealing his vulnerabilities while showcasing his exceptional skill set as a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist and producer. The album’s exploration of life’s complexities extends beyond mere romantic loss, touching on broader themes of self-discovery and introspection.