The explosive ARIA Award-winning ska juggernaut that is Melbourne Ska Orchestra returns today armed with a cinematic new single, ‘Walls of Jericho’, alongside the announcement of a mammoth global tour set to span Australia, Japan and Canada across July to October 2025. A charismatic addition to their ever-burgeoning repertoire, ‘Walls of Jericho’ also marks the second taste of the band’s, as yet unannounced, forthcoming new album, following on from the group’s 2024 upbeat track ‘John Wayne’.
A track bustling with undulating reggae rhythms, hazy undertones and brassy grit, ‘Walls of Jericho’ instantly draws to mind classic Spaghetti Western films, channelling the widescreen Western storytelling of Ennio Morricone along with some other key stylistic nods, internally and externally, for good measure. “Burning Spear and Toots and the Maytals always whisper in our ears when we’re deep in that rootsy zone. And a touch of the MSO magico…” the band shares of their latest single.
And amongst the jubilant melodics and sparkling delivery, ‘Walls of Jericho’ also delivers a powerful message, drawn from historic tales that still permeate today; albeit with an uplifting conclusion, as the band explain, “Walls of Jericho is a reflection on the futility of war and how history often repeats itself when we fail to learn. It questions how easily people are led into conflict, often by those with something to gain. The story draws from ancient symbolism—the biblical tale of Jericho—and uses that as a metaphor for breaking down oppressive systems. Despite its heavy themes, the tune ends with an uplifting singalong chorus—because we always want to shine a light on hope, unity and the strength of people when they stand together.”
For now, the latest single from Melbourne Ska Orchestra is undeniably yet another glimmering jewel in the band’s spectacular catalogue; perfect for late nights driving down a desert highway as much as it’s also a track yearning to be witnessed live. “’Walls of Jericho’ has been brewing for a while,” the band concludes, “and it’s one of those tracks that really stretches the MSO palette. It’s always exciting to release something that feels both timely and timeless, and this tune really hits that mark for us.”