Candice (Jawoyn and Thursday Islander heritage) and Kristel (Nyoongar Ballardong Whadjuk) discovered their passion for music in Perth over seven years ago, now basing themselves in Perth.
"'Before Daylight' is our first release that has a story of its own and is close to our hearts," Candice and Kristel say. "It's taken on many shapes and forms over the years because we wanted it to be perfect. For us, it's a strong representation of where we are now and how much we've both grown as artists and writers."
The Merindas talk about the story behind the video.
"It is inspired by a traditional Noongar dreaming story called 'Bimban Born Kissing Trees'. It's about a man and woman who were forbidden to be together. The lyrics 'Before Daylight, give me one last kiss goodbye' describes the couple's last moments embraced in each others arms.
"Their love was so strong it grew in harmony with the land through two trees. These trees grew side by side with their branches touching, symbolising their last kiss. For us, we really wanted to encapsulate that story within our video. It's our first ever music video too, and we are so proud with how it's all turned out visually, and we hope our audiences and people who discover our music really feel it too!"
Both ladies say they feel a close connection to the queer community and credit it as being a big inspiration for them.
"The community has really shown love for our energy and what we bring on stage. We have grown within the LGBTQIA+ community and have made a lot of new friends too, and the community as a whole has really become part of our family, and we're so proud. A lot of our music is built on body empowerment and giving people a sense of belonging."
'Before Daylight' is out now.
The Merindas Tour Dates
16 November – Tuggers Pride South Festival (ACT)
17 November – 20BiTeen The Gasometer Hotel (Melbourne)
29 November – Strawberry Fields, Tocumwal (NSW)
30 November – Blue Black Beatz (Melbourne)
4 December – The Show Of The Year (Melbourne)
12 December – 'Before Daylight' single launch @ The Spotted Mallard (Melbourne)
26 January – Cooee Festival Emu Plains (NSW)
