Midnight Oil, the Australian rock band formed in 1972, is known for their powerful and political rock music. The band is composed of Peter Garrett on lead vocals, Rob Hirst on drums, Jim Moginie on guitar and keyboards, Martin Rotsey on guitar, and Bones Hillman on bass guitar. Their music is heavily influenced by political and social issues, and they have been vocal advocates for environmental issues, indigenous rights, and social justice.
The Beginnings of Midnight Oil
Midnight Oil formed in Sydney, Australia in 1972 as Farm, a group that played primarily cover songs. The band changed their name to Midnight Oil in 1976 and released their first self-titled album the following year. However, it wasn't until their fourth album, "Diesel and Dust," was released in 1987 that they gained international recognition.
One of the things that sets Midnight Oil apart is their commitment to using their music as a platform for activism. From the outset, the band has been vocal about their political beliefs, and their music has often dealt with issues like nuclear disarmament, human rights, and environmentalism. This commitment to activism has earned the band a fiercely loyal fanbase, and has cemented their place in the history of Australian rock music.
Midnight Oil 1984 Official Trailer
In 1984, Midnight Oil released their album "Red Sails in the Sunset," which contained some of their most popular songs, including "When the Generals Talk" and "Best of Both Worlds." The album was heavily influenced by the political climate of the time, particularly the threat of nuclear war.
That same year, the band embarked on a tour of the United States and Europe to promote the album. The tour was captured in the documentary film "Midnight Oil 1984," which was directed by Ray Argall.
The film shows the band in their prime, performing to packed audiences and speaking out about the issues that matter to them. It also gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at life on tour, showing the band's commitment to their fans and to one another.
Burn The Midnight Oil: Midnight Oil Reunite
After disbanding in 2002, Midnight Oil reunited in 2016 for "The Great Circle" tour, which saw them perform in more than 50 cities around the world. The tour was a huge success, with the band performing many of their classic hits, as well as new material.
The reunion was prompted, in part, by the political climate in Australia and around the world. The band saw it as an opportunity to reignite their commitment to activism, and to use their music to raise awareness about the issues that matter to them.
Burn the Midnight Oil, a documentary film about the band's reunion, was released in 2017. Directed by Ray Argall, the film follows the band as they prepare for the tour, rehearsing old songs and creating new ones.
Midnight Oil in Pop Culture
Over the years, Midnight Oil has had a significant impact on popular culture. They have been featured in films like "Pretty in Pink" and "The Waterboy," and their music has been used in several TV shows.
The band's single "Beds are Burning" reached number one in several countries, including Australia, Canada, and South Africa. It remains one of their most well-known and beloved songs, and has been covered by numerous other artists over the years.
Despite the band's success, they have always remained committed to their beliefs and their activism. They have used their platform to raise awareness about important issues, and to encourage their fans to get involved and make a difference in the world.
In conclusion, Midnight Oil is one of the most important and influential rock bands to come out of Australia. Their music is powerful and political, and their commitment to activism has made them a beloved and iconic band. From their early days as Farm to their recent reunion tour, Midnight Oil has always been about more than just music. They are a band that has used their platform to make a difference, and that is something to be celebrated.
