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Some forty years ago, Goanna’s ‘Solid Rock’ took Indigenous rights to the masses, and forty years on the call to action remains as relevant as ever. Elevating the original into current culture and inspiring a new generation of Australians, First Nations artist Moss joins forces with Tasman Keith, William Barton and Goanna for a reimagining like no other. Opening with the iconic sound of Barton’s didjeridu vibrations and accompanied by cicadas calling in the wind, it is distinctively Australian and of this land. The guitar riff that has transcended time enters as a driving force, energised by Moss’ signature heavy-hitting sound and unparalleled production talents. Lyrically the message of ‘Solid Rock’ is carried higher through Tasman Keith detailing “my life won’t be my life if these policies remain”, his voice writing a new chapter through music. Dynamic and commanding throughout, this collaboration is charged and ready for change.

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Speaking to the record Moss says, “There’s a strength in the energy on this record, with generations coming together to amplify the same message. It’s such an honour and a full-circle moment to be trusted by Goanna to reimagine ‘Solid Rock’ and inspire next generations to push the boundaries of what is possible with the power of our stories, thinking and perspectives. This take is a reflection of where we stand in 2023 – it’s a reminder of our past, a call to action and a call out for our future.”

On the fuel behind the original Shane Howard from Goanna shares, “While writing ‘Solid Rock’ at Uluru, in 1981, my imagination was fuelled by the cultural genius as well as the great historical injustice Aboriginal people faced. I dreamt of a better country, respectful of our ancient history, honest about our modern history, diverse but unified.” Discussing the new take on the record, “‘I’m ancient, I’m modern,…..’ proclaims Tasman Keith boldly in this new, powerful reimagining and reworking of Goanna’s ‘Solid Rock’ by Moss. It’s bold, it’s present, it’s fierce, it’s ‘standing up alive’ and there’s a power of good energy from everyone involved, including the thrill of William Barton’s ‘ancient but modern’ didjeridu playing. I’m proud of this brilliant next generation of First Nations artists who carry the torch high, into the future, for young and old alike. Palya wiru!”

Tasman Keith notes “‘Solid Rock’ is such a staple throughout Australian history and Australian music, to be asked to be a part of this is an honour and a moment I am very proud of. It keeps the necessary conversation going and brings a classic song into a new generation. Moss really delivered on the re-work of an iconic song & Goanna are a band that will always be known for their thought provoking music.”

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From the initial unveiling of his debut single ‘Lullabye’ feat. Akacia that welcomed over 200,000 plays in its first month, proud First Nations electronic artist Moss had begun cementing his bass-driven footprint in his motherland of Australia and beyond. With a production foundation that has seen the likes of Marshmello, Yellow Claw, Jauz and more drop fully-fledged support, the Central Station/October Records producer has proven he’s the brooding, yet maximalist sleeping giant of the electronic dance realm. Taking out the triple J Unearthed DIY Supergroup competition with ‘SABRE TEETH’, while also seeing it hit #1 on their charts, the single led to an official release featuring Ghanaian-Australian and multi award nominated singer Genesis Owusu. Taking his music to the floor, Moss has featured on USA Cult event Hard Summer in Australia while also recently being hand picked by Ableton for their Live 11 launch showcase in Sydney. Having already played alongside some of the heaviest hitters in the industry as well – Skrillex, RL Grime, Flosstradamus, Marshmello, just to name a few – Moss has positioned himself as a producer capable of rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s best.

Hometown pride runs deep for 26-year-old rapper Tasman Keith, whose music is indebted to giving back to the community that raised him. From a small town on New South Wales’ mid-North Coast most commonly recognised for one of the country’s most notorious missions and most shameful history, the rapper is carrying on the storytelling traditions of his family. From syrupy 90s West Coast synths, to neo-funk, skittering trap hi-hats and emotive R&B, his music defies categorisation, but his message remains hard to ignore. Having performed on large stages around the country including Laneway Festival, Groovin’ The Moo, BIGSOUND and more, not even a world pandemic could stop him after releasing his debut EP in 2019, ‘Mission Famous’. A few years on, 2022 saw Tasman release his debut album ‘A Colour Undone’ which had feature performances from heavy hitters including Genesis Owusu, Jessica Mauboy, Kwame, Phil Fresh & Thandi Phoenix. Determined to use his platform as an unstoppable, undeniable voice for the voiceless with the release of his Mission Famous documentary, alongside profiles for VICE and Red Bull Music, Tasman is taking the social justice messages across his music to new heights. His commitment to shining a light on the collective achievements of his hometown is solidifying Tasman Keith as an indispensable leader of Australia’s new hip hop vanguard.

Formed in 1977 in Geelong, renowned Australian rock group Goanna became well known for  incorporating social protest with popular music, driven by the injustices of Australia’s Indigenous Peoples. Last year the band celebrated the 40th Anniversary of their much-loved record Spirit Of Place, most notably featuring their iconic single ‘Solid Rock’. The track debuted on the 11th November 1982 at #33 on the Kent Music Report and peaked at #2 for 17 weeks, not to mention reaching #31 on the US Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart and appearing on the Billboard Hot 100. Most recently, Goanna took over 25 stages around the country for national tour ‘Goanna – Celebrating 40 Years of Spirit Of Place’, demonstrating the continued relevance the record holds and longevity of it’s message.

‘Solid Rock feat. William Barton’ by Goanna x Moss x Tasman Keith is out now via October Records.

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Follow GOANNA
Website – Instagram – Facebook 

Follow MOSS
Soundcloud – Instagram – Facebook
Twitter – Unearthed

Follow TASMAN KEITH
Tiktok – Instagram – Facebook – Twitter

Follow WILLIAM BARTON
Website – Instagram – Facebook – Twitter

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AMNPLIFY – ML