We’ve updated our Terms of Use to reflect our new entity name and address. You can review the changes here.
We’ve updated our Terms of Use. You can review the changes here.
/

  • Streaming + Download

    Includes unlimited streaming via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
    Purchasable with gift card

      $2 AUD  or more

     

  • Buy the Full Digital Album

lyrics

Are you not a true patriot? He asked me in disdain.
I replied in kind, when this land was made
Our ancestors weren’t blessed with its name.

My Nonno set sail in 1955, from Abruzzo Italia.
Escaping la miseria the world war left behind, to find work in Australia.
He earned his wage on the land of the Warrgamay, where he cut sugar cane.
Though some nights he’d dream of his people across the seas, it’s thanks to him I’m here today.

Are you not a true patriot? Won’t you hoist our flag of stars?
In its bloodstained glory, built on buried massacre stories,
Our truth is told in a trail of scars.

My Irish forebearers fled their homeland, in mid-19th century.
After 700 years beneath the terror of the English man, fleeing famine and poverty.
They likely did land on the country of a Dharawal clan, where their new lives began.
Great songs they’d sing of their war-torn history, it’s thanks to them here now I stand.

Are you not a true patriot? Won’t you sing our anthem clear?
About how we are free, as we detain each refugee,
And profit off the wars that fuel their tears.

But I am so grateful for this rich and fertile land, the wild valleys and calming creeks.
For the morning cup of coffee nestled warmly in my hand, wrapped in gold as the new dawn breaks.
But must I embrace, your borders and your states, your attempts to separate?
As we cling desperately to our safe identities, I’m dreaming of a world we could make.

credits

from The Heart and the Fight, released November 12, 2021
Composer/guitar/lead vocal/vocal harmony/accordion/tin whistle/mandolele/drum kit: Franz James
Mixed/produced: Bradley Riddle
Co-produced/recorded: Franz James, Jonathan Virgona, Aidan Campbell

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

Franz James image

Franz James Brisbane, Australia

Franz James is a passionate singer/songwriter from Brisbane, Queensland. His music is inspired by a lot of early folk, with classical guitar influence, and he seeks to express his values and emotion through poetry and song.

contact / help

Contact Franz James

Streaming and
Download help

Report this track or account

If you like Franz James, you may also like:

Bandcamp Daily  your guide to the world of Bandcamp

On Bandcamp Radio

Seafood Sam joins the show to discuss his newest album, " Standing On Giant Shoulders".
listen now