Album Info
| Artist: | Midnight Oil |
| Album: | Blue Sky Mining |
| Released: | Australia, 1990 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Blue Sky Mine | 4:18 |
| Written-By - Midnight Oil | ||
| A2 | Stars Of Warburton | 4:43 |
| A3 | Bedlam Bridge | 4:25 |
| A4 | Forgotten Years | 4:21 |
| A5 | Mountains Of Burma | 4:50 |
| B1 | King Of The Mountain | 3:58 |
| B2 | River Runs Red | 5:23 |
| B3 | Shakers And Movers | 4:32 |
| B4 | One Country | 5:56 |
| B5 | Antarctica | 4:22 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Midnight Oil's "Blue Sky Mining," released on March 24, 1990, is an album that not only showcases the band's signature sound but also serves as a poignant commentary on social and environmental issues. This Australian rock band, known for their politically charged lyrics and energetic performances, delivered a powerful message through this album, which resonates even today.
The album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in Australia and making significant inroads internationally. It was nominated for several awards, including the ARIA Awards, where it won the award for Best Group and was nominated for Album of the Year. The album's title track, "Blue Sky Mine," became one of the band's most recognizable songs, addressing the plight of workers in the mining industry and the environmental degradation that often accompanies such industries. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics highlight the struggles of those affected by corporate greed, making it a standout track that still feels relevant in today's context.
Critically, "Blue Sky Mining" received positive reviews from major publications. Rolling Stone praised the album for its ambitious scope and the way it tackled complex themes without losing the band's rock essence. The Guardian noted the album's ability to blend catchy hooks with serious subject matter, a hallmark of Midnight Oil's style. The band's frontman, Peter Garrett, known for his passionate activism, infused the album with a sense of urgency that critics and fans alike appreciated.
One of the interesting aspects of the album is its production. It was produced by Warne Livesey, who had previously worked with the band on their earlier albums. The production quality of "Blue Sky Mining" is top-notch, with a polished sound that still retains the raw energy of Midnight Oil's live performances. The instrumentation is rich, featuring layers of guitars, keyboards, and a driving rhythm section that propels the songs forward.
In addition to "Blue Sky Mine," other standout tracks include "Forgotten Years," which reflects on the impact of war and the importance of remembering history. The song's anthemic chorus and powerful lyrics make it a fan favorite. Another notable track is "King of the Mountain," which showcases the band's ability to blend rock with a more reflective tone, discussing themes of power and responsibility.
The cultural significance of "Blue Sky Mining" cannot be overstated. Released during a time when Australia was grappling with its identity and the consequences of its colonial past, the album's themes of environmentalism and social justice resonated with many listeners. Midnight Oil's commitment to activism, both through their music and their public personas, helped to raise awareness about important issues, making them not just a band, but a voice for change.
Personal anecdotes from band members reveal the passion behind the album. Peter Garrett has often spoken about the inspiration for the songs, drawing from his experiences and observations of the world around him. The band's dedication to their craft and their message is evident in every track, making "Blue Sky Mining" not just an album, but a call to action.
In conclusion, "Blue Sky Mining" is a remarkable album that captures the essence of Midnight Oil's mission to blend rock music with social consciousness. Its critical acclaim, commercial success, and cultural impact solidify its place in music history. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this album is a must-listen, offering both powerful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics that encourage listeners to reflect on the world we live in.