Mo’Ju Unveils Live Album in Collaboration with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

ARIA-nominated artist Mo’Ju is set to unveil a new live album, Mo’Ju with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (Double J Live at the Wireless), on Friday, September 26, through ABC Music.

This album captures a remarkable performance from 2023 at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall, featuring orchestral versions of Mo’Ju’s beloved tracks, including their well-known single “Native Tongue.” Originally released in 2018, this song delves into themes of identity, heritage, and belonging, establishing itself as one of Mo’Ju’s signature pieces.

Orchestral Experience

The concert was intricately arranged by composer Jamie Messenger and conducted by Nicholas Buc. This collaboration harmonizes Mo’Ju’s unique songwriting with the expansive sound of a full symphony orchestra, offering fresh interpretations of both newer and older material.

Mo’Ju shared their feelings about the experience: “After 20 odd years of touring, it becomes rare to have new experiences in that space, but I had never really done anything like this. Hearing your music arranged and performed by an orchestra is incredibly emotional. I never dared to dream of something like this. So to have accomplished it and recorded it… I’m both proud and humbled.”

Recent Successes

This album follows the release of Mo’Ju’s fourth studio album, Oro, Plata, Mata, which launched in 2023 to widespread acclaim. This project was celebrated with grand performances at both the Sydney Opera House and Hamer Hall, where Mo’Ju performed alongside both the Sydney and Melbourne Symphony Orchestras.

Upcoming Intimate Performances

In 2025, Mo’Ju plans to return to the stage with a series of intimate performances throughout Australia. These shows will feature a stripped-back arrangement of their songs, focusing solely on piano and vocals. The shows will highlight tracks from four albums and two EPs, showcasing Mo’Ju’s artistry in its purest form. Pianist and long-time collaborator Lewis Coleman will accompany them on stage.

The upcoming tour will include stops in various cities such as Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Tasmania, and Adelaide, taking place in venues that range from historic churches to vibrant festivals.

Mo’Ju Australian Shows 2025

Thursday, October 2
Werner Brodbeck Hall, Melbourne, VIC

Friday, October 3
St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Brisbane, QLD

Saturday, October 4
St Stephen’s Church, Sydney, NSW

Friday, October 10
The Pier, Ulverstone, TAS

Saturday, October 11
Du Cane Brewing, Launceston, TAS

Sunday, October 12
Longley Hotel, Hobart, TAS

Friday, October 17
OzAsia Festival, Adelaide, SA