The murder of George Floyd and subsequent protests around the world shone a light on the systemic racism BIPOC face every day. Brisbane trio THE RIOT give voice to the frustration many of us still feel with their latest single “See it Believe it.” The band’s Triple J Unearthed profile calls THE RIOT a rock band, but this single refuses to sit neatly in that box. With rap and hardcore influences, this is an anthem for the marginalised.
The press release insists “See it Believe it” isn’t a protest song in the traditional sense. It also notes that while BIPOC were at the front of the band’s minds, it’s for all persecuted people, including the LGBTQIA+ community, underpaid workers, women who feel diminished by society, and anyone who’s ever felt unseen. The song is accompanied by a music video directed by Xinger Xanger (aka Jordan Kirk).
“The music video captures the final feeling that ties this song together as a whole,” said frontman JD. “Jordan instantly shared the same vision as us and was able to portray it in a way we could have only wished for.”
It might seem strange to release a song like “See it Believe it” now, eight months after the events that sparked its creation. However, that’s no accident. The band’s message is clear: suffering is ongoing and something we should all keep at the front of our mind long after people stop using the hashtags.
THE RIOT will launch “See it Believe it” at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh Heads on April 23.
Image used with permission from Island Records Australia