Thelma Plum – Better In Blak (Vinyl LP)

Originally released in July 2019, Better in Blak is the acclaimed debut studio album from Australian singer-songwriter Thelma Plum. A proud Gamilaraay woman, Plum has become one of Australia's most distinctive contemporary artists, combining heartfelt storytelling, memorable melodies and an unmistakable vocal style. Blending indie pop, folk and alternative influences, Better in Blak explores identity, relationships, resilience and self-acceptance through twelve deeply personal songs.

The album opens with Clumsy Love, an infectious indie-pop favourite that pairs bright melodies with Plum's candid reflections on romance. Don't Let a Good Girl Down follows with sharp songwriting and confident vocals, while Love and War, featuring David Le'aupepe of Gang of Youths, introduces a more reflective atmosphere. Not Angry Anymore explores emotional growth and moving forward, while Homecoming Queen addresses the pressures of appearance and expectations with honesty and vulnerability.

The title track, Better in Blak, is one of the album's defining moments. Confronting racism and celebrating identity, the song transforms painful experiences into an empowering statement of strength and self-worth. Its combination of direct lyricism and uplifting melodies helped establish Plum as an important voice in Australian music, with the track reaching number nine in triple j's Hottest 100 of 2019.

On the second side, Woke Blokes delivers pointed social commentary through playful, energetic songwriting. Nick Cave brings a more intimate atmosphere, while Thulumaay Gii reflects Plum's connection to her cultural identity. Ugly explores vulnerability and self-perception, followed by the emotionally direct Do You Ever Get So Sad You Can't Breathe. Closing track Made for You offers a beautifully arranged conclusion, with songwriting contributions from Paul Kelly and Paul McCartney.

Produced with collaborators including Alexander Burnett and David Kahne, Better in Blak balances polished indie-pop arrangements with the intimacy of Plum's songwriting. The album reached number four on the ARIA Albums Chart and received widespread acclaim, earning multiple ARIA Award nominations and winning Best Cover Art at the 2019 ceremony. Its success helped establish Plum as one of the most compelling singer-songwriters of her generation.

Featuring twelve tracks, including Clumsy Love, Homecoming Queen and Better in Blak, this vinyl LP edition is an essential addition for listeners who appreciate thoughtful Australian songwriting, expressive vocals and contemporary indie-pop music.

Supplied brand new and sealed.

Available now from Heathen Records, your independent Australian online record store specialising in new and collectible vinyl.

Details

• Artist: Thelma Plum
• Album: Better in Blak
• Format: Vinyl LP
• Edition: Original 2019 Standard Edition
• Release Date: 12 July 2019
• Genre: Indie Pop / Folk / Alternative
• Record Label: Warner Music Australia
• Catalogue Number: 5419704881
• Barcode: 5054197048814
• Tracks: 12
• Condition: Brand new and sealed

Tracklist

Side A

• A1 Clumsy Love
• A2 Don't Let a Good Girl Down
• A3 Love and War (feat. David Le'aupepe)
• A4 Not Angry Anymore
• A5 Homecoming Queen
• A6 Better in Blak

Side B

• B1 Woke Blokes
• B2 Nick Cave
• B3 Thulumaay Gii
• B4 Ugly
• B5 Do You Ever Get So Sad You Can't Breathe
• B6 Made for You