We last featured Allan Jamisen earlier this year as he reflected on identity, belonging and the meaning of home with his cinematic single, Milk & Honey, so when we heard that the visionary artist was back with Leave It All Behind, we couldn’t wait to experience his universe once again and share our thoughts.
Leave It All Behind opens with a layered and intricate acoustic guitar soundscape, tapping into microtonal energies with bold, textured drums as Allan sings, “Here she comes chasing electric dreams, the centre of attention tonight, captivating the night life scene, every move is larger than life, she would say it’s magical thinking, and blame it on whatever you’re drinking, but life is a dance, so there’s always a chance of leaving here together tonight, and leave it all behind…”
We immediately connect with the unfolding narrative, delivered on the Libra new moon, inviting us to liberate ourselves, tap into a more hedonistic approach and embrace escapism to leave it all behind. These words resonate like a mantra before a cerebral riser invites us to take the highway to a place far away.
We love the vocal harmonies and of course Allan’s brooding, signature timbre that always reminds us of Leonard Cohen. His art is really filling the void that he left. Obviously, fans of Nick Cave would also vibe with Allan’s dark romanticism on this track.
For this narrative, the woman chasing electric dreams becomes a symbol of possibility. It is a reminder that sometimes all we need is a change of scenery, an unexpected encounter or the courage to take a different road. The song’s origins add another layer of poignancy. Emerging from a period of isolation, grief and self-reflection following years spent caring for a terminally ill parent.
We can easily imagine this track in a film like Lost in Translation, Wild at Heart, Paris, Texas, Thelma & Louise, Into the Wild and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. On television, it could also land a sync placement in True Detective, The Leftovers, Californication, The End of the F**ing World* and The White Lotus.
Produced with acclaimed Los Angeles engineer and producer John X Volaitis, whose credits include the Rolling Stones, Tracy Chapman and Bonnie Raitt, the composition balances sophisticated production with an organic, lived-in expression.
Naturally, we have added Leave It All Behind to our New Music Spotlight playlist and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Allan Jamisen‘s exquisite, growing discography.