Cold Cold Change
Midnight Oil · Essential Oils [2012]
Cold cold change, we were so excited
But you came and went so soon
Cold cold change, we were not invited
We smiled all the while we were taken in
Cold cold change, bringing in the winter
Freezing up the water, closing up the mind
One more danger, gonna have to deal with
One last moment fading all the time
But no lasting change, well we were turned around
We jumped in the air to see over the wall
No master plan, it's a bad design
Significant time in spite of us all
Cold cold change, we were so excited
Waiting on the outside, waiting to begin
Left us all angry and bewildered
Laughing at the way we were taken in
You better lock the door, turn it off (the light)
We'll leave the nights alone, better keep me hoping
That the change is over, the ice is gone
And when the weather's warmer you can hear me shouting yeah
(Hirst/Moginie)
But you came and went so soon
Cold cold change, we were not invited
We smiled all the while we were taken in
Cold cold change, bringing in the winter
Freezing up the water, closing up the mind
One more danger, gonna have to deal with
One last moment fading all the time
But no lasting change, well we were turned around
We jumped in the air to see over the wall
No master plan, it's a bad design
Significant time in spite of us all
Cold cold change, we were so excited
Waiting on the outside, waiting to begin
Left us all angry and bewildered
Laughing at the way we were taken in
You better lock the door, turn it off (the light)
We'll leave the nights alone, better keep me hoping
That the change is over, the ice is gone
And when the weather's warmer you can hear me shouting yeah
(Hirst/Moginie)
About Cold Cold Change
Midnight Oil's "Cold Cold Change" stands as a defining anthem of the Australian anti-nuclear movement, capturing the urgency of the 1970s environmental activism. Recorded for their 2012 compilation *Essential Oils*, the track revitalizes the band's signature blend of punk energy and political lyricism, reflecting on the enduring threat of nuclear proliferation. The song's driving rhythm and urgent delivery underscore the group's commitment to raising awareness about global security risks, making it a staple in their discography of protest music. As a key recording from this era, it continues to resonate with listeners who recognize the timeless relevance of their call to action against nuclear weapons.