Moving criticism of indifference

Issue 

Brother
By Liam Gerner
Order at <http://www.freshtrackproductions.com.au>

REVIEW BY JO ELLIS

ADELAIDE — Liam Gerner wrote his first song at the age of 12. Since then, 19-year-old Gerner has developed into an accomplished singer/songwriter. He has just released a debut EP, Brother, which incorporates jazz, blues and country.

The strongest song on the EP, “Small Wooden Boat”, commemorates the deaths of 353 refugees who drowned on their way to Australia. It is a personal, emotive and beautifully crafted song which takes the perspective of a refugee aboard the SIEV-X.

Gerner describes the refugee's hopes for a new life. What is hard for Gerner to come to terms with is that, despite information from Australian intelligence, “no one came to the rescue” when the boat sunk. The song is a moving criticism of the Australian government's indifference.

Liam Gerner performed at this year's Womadelaide festival, which featured a special place to meet and discuss issues faced by refugees. He has been nominated as “best emerging artist” by the South Australian Blues Society and won the Scene But Not Herd songwriting competition for his original composition “Come on Fashion”.

From Green Left Weekly, March 26, 2003.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.



If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.