This week’s Unearthed Feature Artist Selve releases new album recorded at Abbey Road
Gold Coast alt-rockers Selve are making waves with their second record, revolutionizing the music scene with their unique sound and unapologetic approach. Comprised of the talented minds of Jabirr Jabirr and Anaiwan descent, Loki Liddle and Reece Bowden, along with bandmates Creation Saffigna, Liam Kirk, Michael Baldi, and Scott French, Selve is redefining the boundaries of rock music.
Drawing inspiration from a myriad of influences, Selve pays homage to the trailblazing First Nations artists who have come before them, as well as contemporary rock legends like Pink Floyd, Fontaines D.C., and Foals. This fusion of sounds culminates in their electrifying and ethereal brand of alt-rock that transcends traditional boundaries, creating a larger-than-life experience for listeners.
According to Loki, the ideal way to experience Selve’s music, especially their latest album “Breaking Into Heaven,” is alone on a night walk under the stars with headphones on. The album itself is the product of a visually captivating campaign with collaborator Josh Tate and a three-stage residency series across Western Australia, north-central France, and England, where the band honed their craft and cultivated their unique sound.
The journey to create “Breaking Into Heaven” took Selve to remarkable places, starting with Jabirr Jabirr country, where Loki connected with his elders and community to lay the foundation for the album. The initial twenty-five-track record was demoed in Noyen-sur-Seine’s Studio Nocturnes, eventually leading to the final thirteen-track album being recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, a historic moment that marked Selve as the first Aboriginal act to record an album there.
Describing their experience at Abbey Road, the band found themselves grappling with the weight of the studio’s musical legacy while reveling in their identity as independent artists with full creative control. The juxtaposition of the studio’s storied past with their own cultural heritage provided a unique backdrop for the creation of “Breaking Into Heaven.”
The album’s title serves as a nod to the clash of legacies that Selve embodies, encapsulating their euphoric and jubilant sound. Inspired by Nina Simone’s quote, “The people who built their heaven on your land, are telling you that yours is in the sky,” “Breaking Into Heaven” symbolizes the band’s fearless entry into a space that propels their explosive rock sound forward, challenging preconceived notions and reclaiming their narrative.
In the words of Selve, breaking into Abbey Road to share a First Nations story felt radical and empowering, showcasing the band’s commitment to elevating Indigenous voices in the music industry. Their journey from humble beginnings to recording at one of the most renowned studios in the world is a testament to their artistry and unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries.
Selve is a band on the rise, capturing the hearts and minds of listeners with their bold and innovative approach to rock music. With their sophomore album “Breaking Into Heaven” making waves across the music scene, Selve is set to leave a lasting impact on the industry, paving the way for future generations of Indigenous artists to follow in their footsteps.