Description
Midnight Oil – Species Deceases – Compact Disc
Species Deceases is an EP by Australian rock band Midnight Oil, released in November 1985. This four-track release is a powerful and concise record, reflecting the band’s politically charged ethos and relentless energy. It came after the success of their 1984 album Red Sails in the Sunset and acted as a precursor to their global breakthrough with Diesel and Dust in 1987.
The EP was a significant commercial and critical success in Australia, reaching #1 on the Kent Music Report Albums Chart and earning a place in the country’s rock canon. Its uncompromising sound and themes of environmentalism, justice, and anti-militarism encapsulate Midnight Oil’s core values.
Track Listing
‘Progress’ – 3:59
A blistering critique of unchecked industrialization and environmental destruction. The track is driven by frenetic guitar riffs and Peter Garrett’s impassioned vocals, making it one of the EP’s standout songs.
‘Hercules’ – 4:40
A powerful rock anthem addressing militarism and Australia’s complicity in global arms trade and military alliances. The track is propelled by a tight rhythm section and explosive guitar work.
‘Blossom and Blood’ – 3:29
A song that explores themes of loss and resistance, featuring a more atmospheric sound while maintaining the band’s intensity.
‘Pictures’ – 3:25
A dynamic closer that examines the superficiality of modern media and its impact on public perception and apathy.
Species Deceases tackles issues that were central to Midnight Oil’s mission, many of which remain relevant today. Tracks like ‘Progress’ highlight the dangers of industrial progress at the expense of ecological balance. ‘Hercules’ critiques Australia’s role in global military conflicts and its alignment with superpowers. ‘Pictures’ examines the role of the media in shaping narratives and its potential to distort reality.
These themes are delivered with the band’s trademark ferocity and conviction, making the EP a concentrated dose of their activism-driven rock.
Produced by Gavin MacKillop and Midnight Oil, the EP is characterized by its raw and direct sound. The band stripped back some of the experimental elements present in Red Sails in the Sunset, returning to a more straightforward rock approach.
Musically, Species Deceases features driving guitar riffs, pulsating rhythms, and Garrett’s commanding vocals. The concise nature of the EP allows the band to deliver their message with urgency and focus, showcasing their ability to combine compelling storytelling with hard-hitting rock.
Species Deceases was a major success in Australia. It debuted at No. 1 on the Kent Music Report Albums Chart and remained there for six weeks. The EP was certified Platinum in Australia, reflecting its widespread popularity.
The EP received critical acclaim for its passionate delivery and sharp focus on political and social issues. Critics praised the band’s ability to blend activism with accessible rock music, highlighting the standout tracks ‘Progress’ and ‘Hercules.’
Although a shorter release, Species Deceases holds a significant place in Midnight Oil’s discography. It showcased the band’s ability to create politically charged music that resonated with a wide audience and set the stage for their global breakthrough with Diesel and Dust.
Tracks like ‘Progress’ and ‘Hercules’ remain staples in the band’s live performances, embodying the urgency and power that define Midnight Oil’s music.
