Album Info
| Artist: | Midnight Oil |
| Album: | Midnight Oil |
| Released: | Australia, 1978 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Powderworks | 5:35 |
| A2 | Head Over Heels | 4:01 |
| A3 | Dust | 3:17 |
| A4 | Used And Abused | 3:10 |
| B1 | Surfing With A Spoon | 5:22 |
| B2 | Run By Night | 3:52 |
| B3 | Nothing Lost - Nothing Gained | 8:23 |
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.
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- 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 self-titled album, released on November 1, 1978, marks a significant moment in the Australian rock scene and serves as a powerful introduction to the band that would go on to become one of the most influential acts in the genre. This debut album is a raw and energetic collection of tracks that showcases the band's unique blend of rock, punk, and political activism, setting the stage for their future success.
From the very first track, "Burnie," listeners are greeted with a driving rhythm and Peter Garrett's distinctive, impassioned vocals. The album is characterized by its energetic instrumentation and socially conscious lyrics, a hallmark of Midnight Oil's style. The band, known for their commitment to environmental and indigenous rights, uses this album to lay the groundwork for their future activism, making it not just a collection of songs but a statement of intent.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Head Injuries," which features a catchy chorus and a pulsating beat that captures the essence of late 70s rock. The song's lyrics reflect a sense of urgency and a call to awareness, which would become a recurring theme in Midnight Oil's music. Critics have praised this track for its infectious energy and lyrical depth, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
The album also includes "Used and Abused," a track that showcases the band's punk influences with its raw sound and rebellious spirit. The song's themes of disillusionment and social critique resonate strongly, reflecting the band's commitment to addressing pressing issues through their music. This approach would earn them a dedicated following and critical acclaim, as they continued to push boundaries in their subsequent albums.
Critical reception of the album was generally positive, with many reviewers noting the band's unique sound and Garrett's powerful stage presence. Major publications like Rolling Stone and NME recognized the album as a significant debut, highlighting its energetic performances and socially relevant lyrics. The album's raw production, which was a conscious choice by the band, adds to its authenticity and charm, making it feel like a live performance captured in the studio.
Interestingly, Midnight Oil's self-titled album was recorded in a relatively short time frame, which contributed to its spontaneous feel. The band members have often recounted how they were driven by a sense of urgency to get their message across, and this urgency is palpable in the music. The album was produced by the band themselves, which allowed them to maintain creative control and ensure that their vision was fully realized.
In terms of cultural significance, Midnight Oil's debut album is often seen as a precursor to the band's later work, which would include hits like "Beds Are Burning" and "Blue Sky Mine." The band's commitment to social issues, particularly regarding Australia's indigenous population and environmental concerns, would only deepen in their later albums, but this self-titled debut laid the groundwork for that journey.
While the album did not receive major awards at the time of its release, it has since been recognized as a classic in the Australian rock canon. It has been included in various lists of essential albums and is often cited by musicians and critics alike as a significant influence on the rock genre. The band's later success, including multiple ARIA Awards and international recognition, can be traced back to the foundation they built with this album.
In conclusion, Midnight Oil's self-titled debut is a vibrant and powerful introduction to a band that would go on to make waves both musically and socially. With its energetic tracks, poignant lyrics, and a raw sound that captures the spirit of the times, this album is not just a collection of songs but a rallying cry for change. For anyone looking to explore the roots of Australian rock or the intersection of music and activism, this album is an essential listen.
