"Red Sails in the Sunset" is the fifth studio album by Australian rock band Midnight Oil, released in October 1984 under the Columbia Records label. Recorded and produced in Tokyo, Japan, it marked a significant milestone for the band as their first album to reach No. 1 in Australia. It also charted on the United States Billboard 200.
The cover art of the album, created by Japanese artist Tsunehisa Kimura, depicted a striking image of Sydney Harbour after a hypothetical nuclear strike, reflecting themes of environmental and political concerns prevalent in Midnight Oil's music.
The album included tracks that showcased Midnight Oil's distinctive sound and lyrical content, with some songs touching on social and political issues. Notably, "Red Sails in the Sunset" featured the only Midnight Oil tracks to have lead vocals performed by drummer Rob Hirst: "When the Generals Talk" and "Kosciusko".
Some of the album's tracks were performed live at a special concert in January 1985 on Goat Island in Sydney Harbour, celebrating radio station Triple J's 10th anniversary. This event was simulcast on ABC Television and later rebroadcast on the music program Rock Arena. Footage from this concert was eventually released on DVD as part of the "Best of Both Worlds" album in 2004.
Despite not producing chart-topping singles in Australia, "Red Sails in the Sunset" was recognized for its impact and quality. It was nominated for Best Australian Album at the 1984 Countdown Music Awards, highlighting its critical acclaim and cultural significance within the Australian music scene.
