Midnight Oil Releases Live Sydney Domain CD & DVD

In February 2017, Midnight Oil announced what would be their first tour in more than 15 years. The Great Circle World Tour would start in Sydney’s pubs, just as the band did in the early days, before circumnavigating the globe. Over the next six months The Oils played shows in 16 countries across five continents, spreading their message of the importance of a healthy planet and fair treatment for all its citizens. Then eventually they came home to Sydney.

They played the Domain, a place steeped in history: a ceremonial site for the Gadigal people, a site for political rallies against the Great Depression and Vietnam War. If you were there, you’re probably still talking about it. And if you weren’t, you’ll finally get the chance to experience it with the release of Armistice Day: Live at the Domain, Sydney on November 9.

The concert will be released on DVD and CD, and available to download or stream digitally. It’s got all the hits on it and some special moments too, like this fantastic version of Yothu Yindi’s classic, “Treaty.” It features Yirrmal Marika, the grandson of Yothu Yindi’s original lead singer. You’ll also hear a few bonus tracks captured at the Melbourne show at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl a few days earlier. If you’re a real fan, you’ll want the special deluxe CD/DVD bundle. It features a bonus 75-minute film, Oils at the Reef. Featuring interviews with the band and footage from a stripped back benefit gig at Cairns’ Tanks Arts Centre, which raised money for Great Barrier Reef Legacy and the Australian Marine Conservation Society, it’s destined to be a real collector’s item. It’s available for pre-order now ahead of its November 9 release.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

A Midnight Oils Violent Femmes Supergroup

Midnight Oil’s Rob Hirst, Martin Rotsey, and Jim Moginie have recruited Violent Femmes bassist Brian Ritchie to form a brand new band. They haven’t settled on a name yet, but they’ve been recording in preparation for a 2009 album release.

“I was always a fan of the Oils, especially live,” Brian told Undercover. “Rob Hirst is one of the most powerful drummers anywhere. Just to be playing with those guys is a buzz. I really class them very highly amongst rock bands as being one of the most classic bands. I thought I should play with some local musicians so why not the best?”

Why not indeed! The band is yet to settle on a name but has been recording for a 2009 release.  Last night they made their public debut, performing at Sydney’s Amnesty International 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights dinner. With Peter Garrett busy with parliamentary duties, Dallas Frasca and Holly Throsby lent their vocal talents to the ensemble.

The audience was treated to some oils classics including “Dreamworld,” “Put Down That Weapon,” “Truganini,” and “When The Generals Talk.”

It’s always exciting when musicians the calibre of the Midnight Oils lads get together, and with Brian Ritchie part of the group the music to come should be very interesting indeed!

Image source: Frozen Chipmunk @ Flickr