Statistiques
Biographie
Initially beginning life as a duo, the Simpson sisters, Donna and Vikki, formed the act Colours, starting out playing Bob Dylan and Everly Brothers covers at their local pubs. The sisters toured constantly over several years in a small Kombi van, during which they met guitarist Josh Cunningham, who joined the duo after an impromptu jam session. Changing their name to The Waifs, the trio continued to tour the country from 1992-1996, gaining many fans along the way.
The group decided to head to Melbourne, Australia to record their self-titled debut, which was released in 1996. Two more albums followed shorty after, 1998's "Shelter Me" and 2000's " Sink or Swim, whilst continuing to tour relentlessly. The band also found a growing popularity in the US and Canada, finding legions of fans of their gentle harmonies and wholesome folk, with The Waifs making several festival appearances in that hemisphere.
Having hired Phil Stevens as their band manager, The Waifs were put in touch with John Butler, soon creating the independent label, Jarrah Records. Their fourth record, "Up All Night," arrived shortly after in 2003, bringing the band massive commercial success in Australia, becoming certified double-Platinum. The Waifs rounded out that year winning several awards at the ARIA Music Awards before then heading back out to tour.
"Sun Dirt Water" in 2007 was their next offering of new music, peaking at number two in the charts. "Temptation" followed suit in 2011, reaching the number three spot, continuing to find The Waifs critical and commercial success. With the band members separated due to living with their respective partners, making new music proved difficult, with Cunningham going solo in 2011, releasing his debut effort, "Into Tomorrow."
Avis
Australian folk rock band The Waifs have a sound as laidback as a late winter afternoon in front of a hearth, watching the last tongues of a once-roaring fire die down to gentle ashes. Their sound is rich and warm without being showy. It’s a sound that is genuine and also a delight to listen to for hours on end.
The group, formed of Josh Cunningham and sisters Vicki and Donna Simpson, put their soul into their melodies and lyrics so that their songs bleed emotion. Vicki’s voice in particular is lush and warm, reminiscent of Norah Jones in places. With their combined talent it’s no surprise that The Waifs were asked to support Bob Dylan during his 2003 Australian and North American tour.
The Waifs know that a live show has to be about the music first and foremost, and for that reason they keep their shows low-key and avoid the clutter and distraction of lighting sequences or big productions. What the band does add in when touring is musicians Ben Franz on the bass and David Ross Macdonald on drums, to round out their sound in the best possible way. The band’s hit “London Still” is always present on any set list, but also listen out for “Lighthouse” and “Fisherman’s Daughter” as they are real gems when showcased live.
This is the 3rd time I have seen the Waifs in Canberra as they are one of my favourite bands.The 2 gigs Ive been to previously were amazing!!!This was their 25th anniversary tour and I thought it would be full of their old stuff where the croud would stomp n sing all the way through. New songs I wasnt real interested in as I know I'd be going to their next tour for that.For a 25th tour song choices could of been better by leaving out some new stuff.Their cool and entertaining and have great songsand sound.To be honest didnt like the girl on before them it was long and depressing.
Vick sung Gillian to quick just probly wanted to go home.
I Love the Waifs and it was still a good show but rated it a 6 out of 10 when the other 2 I gave 10
FABULOUS AS ALWAYS!I think they improve with each show.The singing is so heartfelt and strong,and the genuine love they have for their fans,shows through.The highlight for me waswhen the show ended,Vicki cameback out and jumped from the stage and had her photo taken with a guy wearing a Waif's shirt.Adorable!!
Superb again. Whilst the Waifs are super relaxed and professional they still manage to be fresh and engaging. Top quality musicianship, particularly Josh, wonderful voices and mix of old and new songs - varied and beautiful.
Mia Dyson was the warm up and could have been a joint headline - fantastic.