Live Review: Ziggy Ramo releases vital new album, 'Black Thoughts'

ZIGGY RAMO surprised fans last week with the release of a brand new album. Titled Black Thoughts, it is vital listening for everyone right now as its release coincides with record-breaking protests around the country for #BlackLivesMatter.

An extrapolation of his EP of the same name four years ago, Ramo took to social media to announce its release. Accompanied by a caption directing fans to the album, Ramo shared an image detailing some of his thoughts on Saturday (June 6th) morning.

"Australia before we march today, I ask you to reflect why you are marching," Ramo said. He went onto explain this album was actually written five years ago during a time when the rapper was in a "dark space," and that while he wishes that the album had dated in terms of subject matter, it was sadly just as necessary now as it was half a decade ago, and maybe even more so.

"I wanted to document my thoughts so that our stories could be heard after I was gone. With the love and support of family and friends I was able to rediscover hope. The album was very healing for me, but I never put it out because I knew as a country we weren’t ready to listen” he shared.

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"I wish it was dated. I wish there was no need for it. But unfortunately, it's more relevant than ever and I refuse to wait any longer."

Across sixteen songs including three interludes, Ramo distills his experiences growing up indigenous in Australia. His anger and hurt is palpable as he generously details his life so far, while taking aim at the systems that have oppressed First Nations people for 230 years.

As Ramo said on social media, Black Thoughts is necessary listening for white Australians. It's rightly uncomfortable, confronting and not meant to be a gentle listen, but it is also powerful, educational and profound. With Black Thoughts, Ramo shares a deeply personal record that elevates him to a formidable artist and storyteller. We might only be in June, but Black Thoughts is already one of this year's best albums.

"This album is not the answer to the question," He wrote. "It’s a starting point of continued conversation. A lot of you have been asking what you can do to support change during this time. You can start by listening."