BAMC Launches ICE OUT Compilation Featuring Kathleen Hanna and Ad-Rock Covering Bieber

Build Art Make Change (BAMC) has unveiled Contra-ICE Vol. 1: ICE OUT, a benefit compilation that brings together a diverse lineup of artists, including Tom Morello, Fred Armisen, and Jello Biafra. The project’s lead single, a cover of Justin Bieber's "Let Me Love You," is performed by Kathleen Hanna, known for her role in Bikini Kill, and Ad-Rock of the Beastie Boys. This collaboration highlights not only the musical talents involved but also the critical themes being addressed through this project.

Significance of the Project

The release of Contra-ICE Vol. 1: ICE OUT serves a dual purpose: it aims to entertain and provoke thought. The title itself reflects a direct response to the immigration policies and actions that many see as unjust. It's more than just a collection of songs; the compilation acts as a rallying cry, inviting listeners to engage with pressing societal issues. Artists participating in this project are not just putting their names on a track; they’re aligning with a movement that stresses human rights and social justice. This step into activism through art makes the project substantial in today's charged political environment.

Understanding the Mission

BAMC founder Dali Colorado shared insights into the vision behind Contra-ICE. This compilation is more than just music; it's described as a cultural infrastructure aimed at supporting frontline organizations and amplifying immigrant voices. Colorado remarked, "Music has always been my first language. Justice has always been my inheritance. Contra-ICE is where those two lineages meet, urgently and unapologetically." By framing the project in this manner, BAMC emphasizes the synergistic relationship between art and activism, underlining how artistic expression can serve as a powerful tool for social change.

A Journey Through Sound

Colorado, who doubles as a DJ, took a curatorial approach to the album, aiming to create a listening experience that functions as a narrative journey. He noted that each track serves a specific purpose, guiding listeners through a progression of emotions—grief, anger, resilience, hope, and action. His aspiration is for the audience to not just hear the album but to feel its impact and find inspiration to initiate change within their own communities. Music is inherently emotional, and Colorado's intent is to harness that emotionality to connect listeners with the struggles faced by immigrants today. By embedding emotion in each piece, the project encourages a deeper connection with its social themes.

Highlighting Artistic Diversity

The compilation features a mix of music, comedy, and spoken word from artists responding to the ongoing challenges posed by the current immigration state. The diverse lineup plays an essential role in broadening the project’s impact, allowing varied voices to express a spectrum of experiences and viewpoints. In an era where immigrant rights are consistently under fire, this artistic variety is not just refreshing but necessary for a more holistic dialogue. The entire album weaves together a rich tapestry of expression, providing both an emotional and artistic outlet regarding the inhumane treatment of immigrants.

Proceeds and Release Details

Proceeds from this project will benefit organizations like the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) and Unión del Barrio, focusing on defending labor rights and nurturing community-built wealth. This financial aspect is vital since it directly translates artistic efforts into tangible support for those on the ground. To celebrate its release, BAMC will host an event at La Cita in Los Angeles on October 3. Such events not only promote awareness but also establish community connections, giving attendees avenues to engage with the larger movement surrounding these issues.

The full tracklist includes a wide array of artists and titles, such as:

• 01 “I Refuse” - filer coleman
• 02 “Return To Sender” - Jodi Lin and filer coleman
• 03 “Helicopter” - Money Mark
• 04 “Abolish Ice” (HopesAndDrums Remix feat. Uli Bella) - filer coleman
• ...and many more up to 47 unique tracks.

Future Implications and Significance

Contra-ICE Vol. 1: ICE OUT is set for release on October 2 via SoundsGood. For those interested, pre-orders can be made here. Looking ahead, the project showcases how music can serve as a platform for advocacy, merging art with activism to address urgent social issues. This is more significant than it looks; it signals a necessary shift in how artists approach their craft. If you're working in this space, it might be time to re-evaluate how much your creative work can engage and inspire others. The project's success could set a precedent for similar initiatives, linking cultural expression with social justice movements.

This compilation promises to be a powerful blend of art and activism, challenging its listeners to engage with the pressing social issues of our time. And this is the part most people overlook: the potential for creative projects like this to not only generate awareness but also foster real change. As the lines between entertainment and activism blur, artists may find themselves in a position to affect change—one song at a time.