Free West Papua: Rize of the Morning Star Vol 2

Like its 2013 predecessor, this compilation features artists from the Pacific and other countries, banding together in musical solidarity with the ongoing independence struggle taking place in West Papua.

Originally colonised by the Dutch, Indonesian forces invaded the western half of the larger island, which it shares with Papua New Guinea in 1961, but their occupation has been continually resisted by Melanesian nationalists who established the political Free Papua Movement (OPM).

West Papua itself is represented here by murdered musician/activist Arnold Ap (‘Wor Kakes’), and ex-pat Melbourne band Tabura (‘Yenures’). Neighbouring PNG and the Solomon Islands contribute strongly with hip-hoppers Sprigga Mek, Jagarizza, Anslom and Soul Jay, with wider Pacific region support from Vanuatu's Vanessa Quai, Fijian veteran Seru Serevi, and pan-Pacific band Te Vaka. Samoan-Kiwi King Kapisi also weighs in, along with Australia's Blue King Brown and Yothu Yindi. From further afield, there are tracks from South Africans Rutsman Spice and One People Band, Jamaica's Anthony B and American band Big Mountain.

Musically, sweet soul, reggae and hip-hop predominate, with lyrics championing liberation themes and the call for West Papuan independence. With all proceeds going to the movement, there's a long but righteous road ahead.