Up and Comers Music

Allan Jamisen’s “The Coalition” reflects on the flawed nature of an unnamed political movement that preys on its own members. Right from the start, Jamisen uses a deep synth and thick beat to create a sound that evokes the kind of theme music we might hear as a villain makes his first appearance in an action movie. Sonically, we are set up here to expect something dark and imposing in the lyrics, but instead, as the vocals enter, we hear an optimistic phrase that is repeated several times throughout the track: “It’s better than before; it’s better than before; that’s for damn sure”. The juxtaposition of the ominous melodies and the hopeful lyrics strikes an ironic note and immediately calls into question the sincerity of the coalition being talked about here. Are things actually better than before, or are they being deceptively portrayed that way?

As we hit the first verse, Jamisen switches from ironic to straightforward and directly critiques the subject in question: “This insulating coalition preys upon its own volition”. The coalition is clearly the villain now beyond any shadow of a doubt. Jamisen goes on to explain further by saying that “the coalition pulls it out, the coalition breaks it down, the coalition wraps it up, the coalition scorches ground”. What normally might be perceived as positive qualities of a political movement (efficiency, bold action, accessible messaging, etc.) are clearly being portrayed in a less than favorable light here. Jamisen then returns to the refrain: “It’s better than before; it’s better than before; that’s for damn sure”. The coalition is clearly proclaiming progress despite its own flawed internal architecture. The next verse elaborates even further on the actions of this deceptive body: “Take it from the poor, give it to the rich”. Sound like the actions of some politicians you may have heard of in today’s day and age? 

Throughout the track, various jazzy instruments like the flute and saxophone trickle in intermittently, adding a whimsical element that only further heightens the song’s unsettling vibe. Cleverly-employed vocal effects and synth textures sprinkled throughout add more layers of intrigue as we get further along in the track. Overall, these sonic elements create the perfectly dark and macabre packaging for the content of the lyrics in this song. 

In sum, Allan Jamisen’s “The Coalition” is a well-executed, thought-provoking, lyrically interesting electronic track that you don’t come across every day. The artist pairs sinister melodies and textures with incisive lyrics in the creation of this truly unique composition. 

Stream “The Coalition” here and follow Jamisen on Instagram to stay up on his latest. 

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