Victor Serge’s latest single, “We’re Leaving Them Behind,” is a daring and innovative blend of musical influences and political messaging. Channeling the raw energy of Gil Scott-Heron and the eclectic sounds of Detroit, Berlin, and Liverpool, the track is a powerful statement. It’s not just music for the sake of entertainment; it’s a bold attempt to guide the world toward a future of free-thinking enlightenment, resisting any attempts to control others. The song’s central idea, that “you can’t drop bombs on an idea,” underscores its mission to ignite an international creative movement.
The band, consisting of Ed Doherty on drum machine and Jacob Jones on synth, brings a rich tapestry of influences to their music. Meeting as food delivery cyclists in Berlin, their shared love for Bowie and Koka noodles quickly turned into a dynamic creative partnership. Their sound draws from a wide array of inspirations, including Bowie, Alan Vega, Cabaret Voltaire, and the dystopian themes of George Orwell. Recorded at Ark Studios in Liverpool and mixed by veteran producer Steve Powell, “We’re Leaving Them Behind” is a masterful piece of operatic electro collage. The track’s layered synths and rhythmic drum patterns create a soundscape that is both nostalgic and forward-looking, reminiscent of late 80s New York hip hop, yet infused with a contemporary edge. The production is clean yet richly textured, allowing each element to shine. Lyrically, the song is a call to common humanity, emphasizing our shared existence and the enduring power of imagination to resist tyranny. It’s a tribute to what binds us together as citizens of the world, and a reminder of the potential we have when we come together. This theme of unity and resistance is a constant in Victor Serge’s work, reflected in their socially conscious events like the upcoming ‘Artists for Peace’ festival in Liverpool.
One notable aspect of the band’s journey is their run-in with BBC Radio Merseyside, which banned them due to their namesake’s anarchist views. This controversy, however, has only fueled their commitment to their message. As Jacob Jones succinctly puts it, “Our aims are most humble, we only want to bring peace to the earth.” Ed Doherty adds, “We are a musical safari, all life is here; we roam the world of music like wildebeests seeking fresh water.” “We’re Leaving Them Behind” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for a new era of consciousness and creativity. Victor Serge invites listeners not just to hear their music, but to join them in their quest for a more enlightened and unified world. This track is a testament to the band’s integrity and vision, proving that music can indeed be a powerful force for change.
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