Tom Morello and Serj Tankian Unite for Protest Anthem “Adjourn It”

Tom Morello has never been one to shy away from the intersection of art and activism. The Rage Against the Machine guitarist has returned with a searing new single, “Adjourn It,” a collaboration that features the unmistakable, operatic intensity of System of a Down frontman Serj Tankian. The track serves as a fierce critique of immigration policy and the human cost of current enforcement practices.

Released alongside a politically charged music video, the song is the latest preview of Morello’s forthcoming solo project. The track also marks a milestone for the next generation of the Morello family, featuring guitar contributions from his 15-year-old son, Roman Morello.

A Collaboration Rooted in Resistance

Produced by Zakk Cervini, known for his work with acts like Bring Me the Horizon and Yungblud, “Adjourn It” pairs crunching, industrial-leaning riffs with Tankian’s signature vocal volatility. For Morello, the song is a direct response to the current political climate.

“At this historical juncture, every act of art is an act of resistance,” Morello stated in a recent press release. He described the track as a “clarion call for justice in unjust times,” specifically pointing to the treatment of immigrants and the rising tide of authoritarian rhetoric.

Serj Tankian echoed this sentiment, framing the song as a protest anthem against the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Tankian noted that the song highlights the separation of families and the systemic failures that often deny individuals due legal process in immigration courts.

Visualizing the Fight

The accompanying music video for “Adjourn It” weaves in historical context by featuring footage from the 1954 film Salt of the Earth. The movie, which centers on Mexican-American miners battling labor exploitation, holds significant historical weight; it was famously created by blacklisted Hollywood filmmakers during the McCarthy era and featured real-life miners in its cast. By utilizing this imagery, Morello draws a parallel between historical labor struggles and the contemporary fight for human rights.

Morello’s Ongoing Activism

The release of “Adjourn It” follows a period of intense activity for Morello. Beyond his solo work, the guitarist has been a visible presence in various social justice movements. He has participated in demonstrations alongside organizations like Hands Off NYC, protesting detention policies outside Manhattan’s immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza.

Morello has maintained his long-standing creative partnership with Bruce Springsteen, having spent time performing with the E Street Band. His commitment to grassroots advocacy remains a cornerstone of his public profile, mirroring the themes found in his musical output.

Key Takeaways

• New Music: “Adjourn It” is the latest single from Tom Morello’s upcoming solo album, released via Mom + Pop.
• Collaborators: The track features Serj Tankian on vocals and Roman Morello on guitar.
• Thematic Focus: The song serves as a protest against ICE policies, focusing on family separation and the need for legal due process.
• Historical Context: The music video incorporates clips from the 1954 blacklisted film Salt of the Earth to emphasize themes of resistance.

Looking Ahead

As Morello prepares for the release of his next studio album—the follow-up to his 2021 twin releases, The Atlas Underground Fire and The Atlas Underground Flood—his focus remains fixed on blending heavy, experimental rock with urgent social commentary. With a career defined by his refusal to remain apolitical, Morello continues to leverage his platform to highlight systemic injustices, ensuring that his music remains a loud, unyielding force in the modern cultural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is featured on Tom Morello’s new song “Adjourn It”?
The song features System of a Down frontman Serj Tankian on vocals and Tom Morello’s son, Roman Morello, on guitar.

What is the primary message of “Adjourn It”?
The song is a protest anthem aimed at U.S. Immigration enforcement policies, specifically criticizing family separation and the lack of due process for immigrants within the legal system.

Why is the film Salt of the Earth in the music video?
The 1954 film was chosen for its historical significance regarding labor rights and its status as a blacklisted production, which aligns with the song’s themes of resistance against systemic exploitation.