The Album of the Week show is back! To cap off Reconciliation Week, Eastside is featuring Miiesha’s debut album, Nyaaringu. A Pitjantjatjara/Torres Strait Islander woman from Central Queensland, she recorded and released this stunning debut at just 20 years old. The album is a triumphant blend of gospel, soul, and modern electronic, borrowing sounds from the likes of FKA Twigs and Solange. The album is broken up by storytelling interludes spoken by her grandmother, that add a second layer of meaning to the vulnerable yet proud debut. The album tackles issues of heritage and modern discrimination within Indigenous communities, with the translation of Nyaaringu from Pitjantjatjara being ‘what happened’. The standout track from the album is Black Privilege featuring the standout line of ‘Survival ain’t that beautiful, I just made it look this good for you.’ Another standout is the previously released single Twisting Words, the soul-filled anthem that was released in February with a huge response from her audience. Overall a stunning and timely debut from one of Australia’s best new young Indigenous talent.
Listen to the show here, and tune in Thursdays 1.30-2pm to hear Album of the Week with Bec Cushway.