Saint Disruption, founded by Jeff Firewalker Schmitt (musician; founder of the Eagle Condor Council and Wisdom Keepers member); John Medeski (renowned jazz musician; cofounder of Medeski Martin & Wood); and noted music promoter and manager Aaron Kayce is a musical collaborative that brings together musicians, video artists and visionaries to explore the issues of our time.
Following the release of their studio debut Rose In the Oblivion last year, which Glide described as being a collaboration with an “intrinsic sense of focus,” the duo has created a soulful rendition of John Lennon’s classic composition “Imagine,” honoring the song’s 50th anniversary. The single features slide guitar work by Grammy winning vocalist, songwriter, guitar legend, and Gov’t Mule front man Warren Haynes, marking the first time that Haynes has recorded with his nephew Austn Haynes, cofounder of Asheville-based hip-hop quartet Free Radio. Also featured on the track are impressively dynamic vocalists—Datrian Johnson and Grammy winning artist Debrissa McKinney—both of whom also work with Austn in Free Radio.
Today Glide is excited to offer an exclusive early listen to the track (PRE-ORDER), which Haynes describes as “a cool, inventive take on this timeless tune.” He isn’t wrong, as this version brings together soulful vocal harmonies and dignified yet ominous piano work. What could be described as almost a hip-hop beat provides the rhythmic backbone that pushes the song forward and allows the vocals and piano to shine. With Medeski’s effortlessly cool jazzy touch and Haynes adding textures with his subtle slide playing, the vocals are allowed to soar to new heights and present this song in a more grandiose manner that feels spiritual.
Jeff Firewalker reflects, “We were inspired to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of Lennon’s classic recording ‘Imagine,’ as we feel the message is more pertinent than ever. There are no human dilemmas, no global issues, no societal imperatives that the message of ‘Imagine’ doesn’t touch. We hope that our rendition stands as a ‘call to action,’ as we ask ourselves, “Are we courageous enough to dismantle the structures that have not served us?”
John Medeski remarks, “I’m very sensitive about covering songs. I don’t see the point unless you have something personal to say or want to shed a different light on the original. ‘Imagine’ is an anthem, so at first, I was tentative. It was essential that we evoke a different emotional landscape as the backdrop for the song— something all of us were feeling. I think it happened. Nothing felt forced, it all came together easily and naturally, a good sign!”
“‘Imagine’ has long been one of my favorite songs,” says Austn of the song that was initially released in October 1971. “Although John Lennon’s classic might not make most people think about hip-hop, for me, I’ve always wanted to remix it and rap on it. In this dark time our world is currently in, I attempted to meet Lennon on his committed frequency of love and add some poetic confidence in the spirit of hip-hop. Working with this group of musicians was humbling and encouraging because they really helped create the space for the presence and camaraderie that brought our version to life.”
LISTEN: