Tell Me The Truth
Midnight Oil · Flat Chat [2006]
Still yearning half way a stranger
I believe in our multiplicty
Still part-blind no reason for anger
I believe we pull up our roots and retreat
A new crop of aerials in Dacca and Canberra
Why don't you tell me the truth about you
Vaseline, you smeared it across every scene
Anchor-man drowns in a sea of sensation
Tyranny, crushing the young bird's seed
Hallowe'en's mate, short fuse of the banker
We're all spores but we're never eunuchs
Love's on the loose deflect the short tunic
And the cameras ruse
There's no judgement in ignorance I say
Some people tell me stories, wasting all my time
Some trying not receiving someone else's lies
It's my time, yes it's my time
(Moginie/Garrett)
Tell Me The Truth
Tell Me The Truth stands as a compelling song in the later discography of Midnight Oil, appearing on their 2006 album Flat Chat. While the band is globally renowned for their high-energy rock anthems and sharp political commentary, this track reflects the group's continued commitment to social observation during their final studio recording era. The song maintains the driving rhythmic intensity and urgent vocal delivery that defined their signature sound, even as the band explored new sonic textures. As part of a catalogue that includes enduring classics like Beds Are Burning, this recording demonstrates the band's ability to sustain their distinctive Australian rock identity. The track serves as a testament to their enduring relevance, capturing the band's knack for blending rock instrumentation with thoughtful lyrical themes without relying on overt spectacle.