Portishead singer Beth Gibbons has collaborated with The Miraculous Love Kids of Afghanistan — a musical group of girl refugees – on a new cover that combines Joy Division’s “Atmosphere” and David Bowie’s “Heroes.”
The release of the cover is timed with the two-year anniversary of America’s pull-out from Afghanistan, which allowed the Taliban to regain control of the country and end many of its citizen’s freedoms — including women’s opportunity to play music.
Launched by Lanny Cordola in 2016, The Miraculous Love Kids of Afghanistan taught music, math, reading, and other essential life skills to nearly 200 female students living in the country. Following America’s departure from Afghanistan, Cordola and many of the girls and their families evacuated the country and sought refuge in Islamabad.
In order to raise awareness to the girls’ plight, Cordola has enlisted some high-profile Western musicians for collaborations. Most recently, Nick Cave joined The Miraculous Love Kids on a song called “Breathless/Beautiful.” Now, Gibbons has lent her vocals for a Joy Division/Bowie cover.
“I was so honored to guest on the Miraculous Love Kids’ reconstructed cover track ‘Atmosphere / Heroes,’ and to be a voice next to these brave and beautiful girls of Afghanistan,” Gibbons said in a statement. Watch their performance below.
