In the current tumultuous global climate, where the echoes of oppression are seemingly ringing again, Kelsie Kimberlin emerges with a message of hope and resistance with her latest anthem, “We Are The Promise“. This cinematic opus transcends mere music with its incredibly produced video weaving a narrative of rebellion and redemption against the backdrop of authoritarianism.
At its core, “We Are The Promise” is a rallying cry for citizens to rise above all forms of tyranny. Being of Ukranian–American descent it is clear the ongoing occupation of Ukraine is heavy on her heart and yet, Kelsie Kimberlin‘s dedication to the cause shines through in every word. The masterful orchestration draws listeners into a sound that blends the grandeur of Led Zeppelin‘s orchestral arrangements (for example in “Kashmir“) with the depth of Pink Floyd‘s more introspective tracks. The soaring vocals, accompanied by pulsating beats and sweeping melodies, create a sense of urgency and defiance that permeates every note driving the message home. With each crescendo, the song builds closer and closer to its inevitable powerful climax, capturing the sentiment of rebellion and resilience that defines its core belief. It’s a musical tour de force that transcends borders and nationalities, delivering a timeless anthem for the ages.
The accompanying video, a collaboration with Ukrainian composer and film director Sergiy Krutsenko, plunges viewers into a visual feast of symbolic resistance. Shot in a series of unique and breathtaking locations including a former Soviet prison and a centuries-old castle, the imagery serves as a stark reminder of the perils of unchecked power and the enduring spirit of those who dare to defy it. The dystopian landscape it portrays is reminiscent of the post-apocalyptic shots of the Hunger Games series, serving as a stark reminder that this reality could potentially be around the corner for all of us.
Behind the scenes, the tragic loss of Krutsenko, who passed away unexpectedly while editing the video, adds a poignant layer of emotion to the project. Despite his untimely death, Krutsenko‘s team in Ukraine worked tirelessly to complete the video, honouring his vision and ensuring that his legacy lives on. Kimberlin, in a touching tribute to Krutsenko and all those who fight for freedom and democracy, dedicated the release of the song and video to his memory. Additionally, she pays homage to Ukrainian actor Oleksandr Zhukovin, who so convincingly portrays the dictator in the video, highlighting his real-life heroism as a member of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fighting on the front lines against Russia‘s invasion.
In today’s world, with the rise of right-wing populism, the normalization of authoritarianism, and the rising price common people have to pay, Kelsie Kimberlin‘s message resonates with an urgency that cannot be ignored. She implores us to stand united against intimidation, to rise above the cacophony of fear and division, and to reclaim our collective promise of freedom and democracy.
In “We Are The Promise” she has delivered a powerful reminder that the fight for liberty is far from over. It is a call to arms and a testament to the enduring power of music as a force for social change. Kelsie Kimberlin may be the voice behind the song, but it is the promise of a better world that echoes in every chord that should inspire us all to rise and reclaim a better future for us and future generations.
So, in returning to the opening paragraph: In the current tumultuous global climate, let us heed her words and stand together as one. As the chorus swells and the music crescendos, let us declare with unwavering conviction: “We are the Promise, We are the Glory, We are the Story.“
The Kelsie Kimberlin Foundation is collecting donations to rebuild Ukraine, provide medical care and rehabilitation to war victims, and gain further support for Ukraine, including musicians such as Jamala who are targeted for using their music for the greater good. #JamalasVoiceOfFreedom
TRACKS:
