ORO, PLATA, MATA

An artist who has often dealt with issues of self-identity, gender and race, Mo’Ju (formerly Mojo Juju) has always been a captivating presence and compelling performer.

Born Mojo Ruiz de Luzuriaga, to a Filipino father and a mixed-race mother of European-Wiradjuri (Aboriginal) ancestry, Mo’Ju's 2018 album Native Tongue explored this unusual family history, with the hit title-track video breaking fresh ground in Australian Indigenous music and attracting new listeners.

ORO, PLATA, MATA (Gold, Silver, Death/Bad Luck) continues this deeply personal journey of cross-cultural heritage, in homage to Mo’Ju's late Tito (uncle) Peque Gallaga. It also features the voice of Tita (aunt) Madie Gallaga, who briefly introduces each album section.

Having lost a grandfather during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as becoming a first-time parent, many of the songs – such as ‘Bran Nue Wurld’, ‘Change Has To Come’ and ‘The Future’ – reference this shift in Mo’Ju's priorities and social perspective.

Addressing capitalist wealth, fame, the human condition, existential anxiety and hope, Mo’Ju's strong vocals and introspective lyrics are complemented by guesting Australian/Papua New Guinea singer Ngaiire (‘Something to Believe in’), Aussie-based Ethiopian vocalist Meklit Kibret (‘Swan Song’) and traditional Filipino kulintang (gong) percussion.