Photo: Lapino Bianco
Rootsville Press Article 2025
Emmanuel Picardi & The Bright Sorrow
A blend of blues, blues-rock, and soul, Emmanuel knows how to surround himself with talented musicians — this evening featuring Carlos Van Belleghem on bass, Marcus Weymaere on drums, and Xavier Bouillon on keyboards.
The opening song was already filled with fiery guitar work, while the rhythm section proved simply outstanding. It sounded great right from the start.
With the second number, the band immediately shifted into a higher gear and delivered a fine dose of blues that swung effortlessly. With “I Hear the Voice,” they slowed things down and treated us to a beautiful, heartfelt slow blues. The band left a very strong impression — tight interplay and excellent musicianship all around.
Then it was time to hit the accelerator again with “Get Back To The Blues.” Emmanuel offered tasteful, well-crafted guitar solos — expressive and to the point, without any endless noodling.
Definitely a band to recommend to concert organizers across the country.
Top-quality work, without a doubt.
Rootsville
Press article : Back To The Roots 2025
Emmanuel Picardi & The Bright Sorrow delivered an emotionally charged performance that left a deep impression. They offered a tasteful blend of blues, soul and rock. It felt comfortable yet stimulating, with Emmanuel and his band performing their songs with both emotion and energy. Before their set they promised there would be dancing, and they absolutely delivered. As blues lovers, we could rub our hands with delight. We were completely on board.
Maxim Stevens
A Meeting of the souls
”The Bright Sorrow” is the story of a long standing friendship between Emmanuel Picardi and Marc Weymaere. As youngsters, they created their first band: ’Just in Case’, with Jack Thysen on the bass. In the 90s, they played in various blues clubs and festivals. Then, each went their own way and reunited in 2022 at a blues-rock jam at Les Deux Ours in Belgium. Eyes lit up, heads swayed and sparks started flying! And off they went: ’The Bright Sorrow Blues Band” was born! . First, they paid tribute to Blind Willie Johnson, C. Singleton, Albert King, B.B. King, Don Nix, Sonny & Brownie, R.L. Burnside, Big Bill Broonzy, Robben Ford, but also Cream, and of course, Jimi Hendrix . When Emmanuel brought in his own compositions, the band became
”Emmanuel Picardi & The Bright Sorrow”.
Why ”The Bright Sorrow”? The name alone sums up what the Blues means and what it should express for the band members: a constant tension between light and joy on one side – Bright, and sadness on the other – Sorrow, without ever really knowing towards which side one will truly lean.
When Emmanuel and Marc called upon a well-known Blues bassist, René Stock, they came a real power Trio. For the recording of the soon-to-be-released album, Xavier Bouillon joined the team to add depth to the harmonies. The result is a finely crafted piece of music.