A Review of ‘The Burden: Empire on Blood’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Key Art for ‘The Burden: Empire on Blood’ Courtesy of Orbit Media.

It really is quite amazing how far the true crime podcast has come over the past few years. For this type of podcast was nothing short of raw and visceral entertainment, when it first arrived on the market. Wherein well-versed hosts broke down incredible crimes with stunning facts and unsettling details regarding every type of crime imaginable. But somewhere along the line, that all changed. For suddenly it became clear these types of podcasts could be more than a guilty pleasure that explored morbid and forbidden topics. They could in fact, be supremely helpful in nature. 
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Which was an epiphany that drove a great many new true crime podcasters… to work to make a difference with their podcast. To the point where some dug into cold cases and others revisited old cases that were teeming with concern regarding injustice and well, they have indeed made a difference. Because some of those investigations have led to people being freed when new evidence was uncovered, and they have shed fascinating light on cold cases that have lay dormant for so long. And recently a podcast, that accomplished something similar, received a re-release to offer a more comprehensive understanding of how journalist Steve Fishman made an incredible difference in The Burden: Empire on Blood.

Which is a podcast that explores the life and times of one Calvin Burai. Who was a drug kingpin in New York City in the 1990s and enjoyed the good life in doing so. To the point where Calvin flaunted his lifestyle and for a time… life was sweet for Calvin. But a murder in the city that was immediately tied to Calvin, put him behind bars in a swift manner. An act that few would think of since that seems like proper justice and gets a drug dealer off the street. But Calvin was adamant that he did not take part in this crime, and asked for help from your host, Steve Fishman, to prove that was the case, and well… his case was fascinating enough for Steve to get involved and what he finds over the course of this series… is shocking to say the least.

Since not everything is what it seems from this case and truly, there are issues that showcase sloppy police work and there is of course, a shocking twist that one would not expect and well… all of these elements bring forth a re-released story that is indeed, comprehensive, fascinating and uplifting. For truly, Steve does some good in this tale. First by listening to Calvin’s story, since so many convicts are rarely heard, regardless of what they’ve done, and then by stepping in and using his background as a journalist to meticulously explore this case and uncover truths in the process, and it is that process that makes this podcast so incredibly engaging. Since you are privy to every detail, every thought, and every step that Steve took, which adds to the inspirational portion of this story. Since it reminds us that with some care, and with some passion… we can accomplish wonders.

But where this podcast truly shines, is in its objectivity. Because let’s be honest… a lot of true crime podcasts are biased in nature and lean into the entertainment factor of podcasting as well. Which allows for dramatic elements to come into play and allows for bias through emotional response to come to life. Clouding at times what could be a very pure and educational journey. But this podcast does none of that. Steve simply presents the story as it is, and he holds to the facts and speaks to all sides of the story. Which allows for us to understand, that while Calvin has indeed dealt with some prejudice and bias from the judicial system… he’s still a criminal and that should be kept in mind and that what matters more here, are the failures from our judicial system he endured. Because in these United States it is supposed to be a fair trial for all, that fair shake, and it comes into question whether or not Calvin received that.

Which gives rise to an incredible overview of the system, and an incredible journey, period. One that truly allows for the listener to see the whole picture here and see this story as objectively as Steve did, and genuinely explores this case in a fascinating and engaging manner. Because you have to know how it ends, how all of this played out and how Steve’s investigation came to a close. Making this a must-listen podcast, one that you can enjoy right now, simply through The Burden feed, and we here at NTG certainly hope you give this a listen. For this is that rare podcast that truly understands the power of the medium and tells a refreshing and powerful story about one man’s quest for the truth, and nothing but.  

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