The long-awaited return of Midnight Oil in 2017 lived up to the hype. The political rockers embarked on a 77 date world tour across 16 countries that came to a close in Australia last November, with their show at The Domain in Sydney on Armistice Day resulting in this spectacular live album.
Sounding just as fresh and socially aware as when they burst onto the scene in 1972, this documentation of their live show captures the infectious energy the Oil’s have built their career around. ‘Read About It’, ‘Beds Are Burning’, ‘US Forces’ and ‘Forgotten Years’ are transformed into boisterous’ call to arm anthems, while older tracks ‘Section 5 (Bus To Bondi)’ and ‘Warakurna’ offer something for the die hards.
Front man Peter Garrett is in fine form as he delivers the Oil’s message in his iconic Aussie drawl, ably supported by his long-time band mates. Fan favourite ‘Short Memory’ is chillingly relevant while Yothu Yindi’s Yirrmal makes a special appearance, joining the band for a goose bump-inducing rendition of ‘Treaty’.
It’s an experience watching Midnight Oil live, and this album closely demonstrates the power and the passion that still well and truly flows through the band’s veins.
8/10
By Tobias Handke
