Diesel and Dust
Midnight Oil · 1987
46 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · punk
A potent mix of political fervor and anthemic rock, infused with Indigenous themes and environmental urgency.
Why this album works
The album produced the hit single 'Beds Are Burning', which reached the top of the charts in Australia and gained international recognition for its strong message about land rights. 'Diesel and Dust' not only solidified Midnight Oil's reputation as a voice for social change but also influenced future Australian rock artists to embrace political activism in their music.
- Best for
- steady pacing for reflection politically charged anthemic energy invigorating themes of urgency
- Context
- By the time 'Diesel and Dust' was released in August 1987, Midnight Oil had already established themselves as a significant force in Australian rock. This album followed their breakthrough record, 'Species Deceases', and marked a shift towards more politically charged lyrics and global themes, particularly focusing on Indigenous rights and environmental issues.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds· INXS· Crowded House· Powderfinger· Diesel· Silverchair· Little River Band· The Living End
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Beds Are Burning Standout 4:17
- 2 Put Down That Weapon Standout 4:38
- 3 Dreamworld 3:37
- 4 Arctic World 4:21
- 5 Warakurna 4:38
- 6 The Dead Heart Standout 5:10
- 7 Whoah 3:51
- 8 Bullroarer 4:59
- 9 Sell My Soul 3:37
- 10 Sometimes 3:53
- 11 Gunbarrel Highway 3:39
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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