Boy & Bear, The Waifs, and Busby Marou Play Port Mac’s Charity Festival

Top Aussie acts Boy & Bear, The Waifs, and Busby Marou will hit Port Macquarie in April for Ride the Soundwave, a music festival that aims to do good in the local community. The brainchild of local charity Make a Difference, ticket sales will benefit homeless and disadvantaged people in the Hastings region of New South Wales’ Mid-North Coast.

Ride the Soundwave is part of Port’s Ride the Wave Festival, which also features surfing and skate competitions, markets, and a family fun zone.

“So far, the surf and skate events have really taken off and are fully subscribed each year, so they’re here to stay. It’s the music event that needs more support, so we’re hoping people who love live music will get behind us and make the event a success so that it can become an annual fixture on the Port Macquarie calendar,” explained Make a Difference committee member and local school teacher Erin Denham. “We need to sell all of our tickets for this to happen – with 100% of all money raised going back to Make a Difference, and helping those in need. It’s a win win – festival goers will get to enjoy an awesome line-up in a spectacular setting for a great price, all while feeling great that they’ve in essence made a charity donation to help those in need.”

Ride the Soundwave will hit the picturesque Port Macquarie Town Beach Reserve on April 29. Tickets cost just $90. It’s not a lot of money for all this talent, but it’ll make a big difference to locals in need. Get yours now from Ticketebo.

Image used with permission from Cardinal Spin

Delta Holds On to Number One Spot on ARIA Charts

I missed writing about the charts last week when Delta Goodrem earned another number one single with “Wings,” but with her song standing firm and three Aussie artists debuting in the top five on the albums charts, I knew I had to get typing this week.

“Wings” is on line to become Delta’s longest standing number one. “Out of the Blue” lasted for three weeks at the top spot, but that was all pre-Voice, so it’ll be interesting to see whether this song has the legs to eclipse that record. She’s actually the only Aussie act in the singles top 10, but Vance Joy is climbing up the charts with “Fire and the Flood,” so hopefully he can keep her company soon.

It’s much rosier for Aussies on the album charts. Wales’ Bullet for my Valentine held out local acts at bay, Dead Letter Circus are nipping at their heels with Aesthesis. It’s their third album to debut at number two.
Right behind them at number three is everyone’s favourite rocker Jimmy Barnes with a compilation album Best of the Soul Years. If you don’t already have Soul Deep, Soul Deeper, and The Rhythm and the Blues, this is a must.

Fans have shown they were hungry for another Waifs album. Their first in four years, Beautiful You, sits at number five on debut.

After a big showing last week, The Rubens have slipped to number nine with Hoops.

Click below for this week’s top 10s.

Top 10 Albums
1. Venom – Bullet for my Valentine
2. Aesthesis – Dead Letter Circus
3. Best of the Soul Years – Jimmy Barnes
4. ComptonDr Dre
5. Beautiful YouThe Waifs
6. 1989Taylor Smith
7. XEd Sheeran
8. TitleMeghan Trainor
9. HoopsThe Rubens
10. Chaos and the Calm – James Bay

Top 10 Singles
1. “Wings” – Delta Goodrem
2. “How Deep is Your Love” – Calvin Harris & Disciples
3. “Can’t Feel My Face” – The Weeknd
4. “Are You With Me (Original Mix)” – Lost Frequencies
5. “Ghost Town” – Adam Lambert
6. “Peanut Butter Jelly” – Galantis
7. “That’s How You Know” – Nico & Vinz feat. Kid Ink & Bebe Rexha
8. “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” – Meghan Trainor feat. John Legend
9. “Do It Again” – Pia Mia feat. Chris Brown & Tyga
10. “Get Stupid” – Aston Merrygold

The Waifs Release Gorgeous New Single “6000 Miles”

The Waifs are offering up a sneak peek of their brand new album Beautiful You with the release of the single “6000 Miles.” What a stunning song that is, a country-folk ditty that contemplates the distance between Vikki Thorn’s old home in Western Australia and new digs in Utah.

While the band spends a lot of time in the States, this song and indeed the whole album was recorded in Byron Bay. It took just a few weeks to lay down, which speaks of the talent of this enduring Aussie act.

Beautiful You will hit stores on August 14. The Waifs will celebrate its release with a rare Australian tour. Tickets are on sale now from The Waifs website.

10 September 2015 – Goldfield Arts Centre, Kalgoorlie
12 September 2015 – Esperance Civic Centre, Esperance
13 September 2015 – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany
15 September 2015 – Perth Concert Hall, Perth
16 September 2015 – Queens Park Theatre, Geraldton
17 September 2015 – Carnarvon Civic Centre, Carnarvon
20 September 2015 – Roebuck Bay Hotel, Broome
14 October 2015 – The Triffid, Brisbane
15 October 2015 – Nambour Civic Centre, Nambour
17 October 2015 – Townsville Civic Theatre, Townsville
18 October 2015 – Musica Botanica, Cairns
21 October 2015 – Bangalow Town Hall, Bangalow
22 October 2015 – Miami Marketta, Gold Coast
24 October 2015 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
25 October 2015 – Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide
28 October 2015 – GPAC, Geelong
29 October 2015 – Albury Entertainment Centre, Albury
31 October 2015 – Granite Town Festival, Mooruya
1 November 2015 – The National Theatre, Canberra
3 November 2015 – Anitas, Thirroul
4 November 2015 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
5 November 2015 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
7 November 2015 – Araluen Arts Centre, Alice Springs
8 November 2015 – Darwin Entertainment Centre, Darwin

The Peninsula Picnic Sounds Incredible

I’m not really a festivals kind of person. I can’t think of anything worse than fighting through crowds, enduring a bunch of acts that only the cool kids like, and paying too much money for lukewarm beer. But the Peninsula Picnic has caught my attention. It sounds like my kind of festival, and I wish I was closer to the Mornington Peninsula so I could get along.

The Peninsula Picnic is all about three of my favorite things: good music, good food, and good wine. The musical line-up is stellar, with The Waifs, Paul Dempsey, The Pierce Brothers, Tinpan Orange, and Hayden Calnin all on the bill. Ian Curley, and the teams from Terre, Montalto, Pope Joan, The Long Table Restaurant, Dee’s Kitchen, DOC Mornington, and Terminus at Flinders Hotel will take care of the food.

The Peninsula Picnic hits the Mornington Racecourse on March 29. Tickets are on sale now from Ticketek.

Image used with permission from Secret Service Public Relations

The Waifs @ Civic Theatre, Newcastle – 27 February 2011

Western Australian music royalty came together last night for one amazing show at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre. This grand old theatre was made for the intimate music of artists like The Waifs and Mama Kin, and the attentive crowd lapped it up.

I put Mama Kin together with The Waifs in my introduction because her set never felt like mere support. I’m used to crowds chattering away as support acts desperately try to capture the attention of someone in the audience, but not last night. All eyes were transfixed on this spirited performer, who so effortlessly fused blues, roots, folk, and soul. The crowd even complained when she announced her last song. She cheekily told the audience they needn’t pretend they were there to see her. A fair call perhaps, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t savouring her every moment on stage. I know I was; hanging onto every lyric, singing and clapping to the beat when she encouraged us to, laughing at the stories that punctuated the songs. Mama Kin definitely made a few new fans last night, and I’m amongst them.

As The Waifs began their set I was again struck by how attentive and receptive this Newcastle crowd was. Just as Mama Kin was supported, so were The Waifs’ new songs. Their set drew heavily from their soon-to-be-released new album Temptation, but the audience didn’t seem to mind one bit. Of course songs like “Lighthouse” and “London Still” received a rapturous reception, but the crowd patiently waited until they came, content to let the new material wash over them.

Of course, all credit can’t be given to the crowd. The Waifs’ new material also stacks up against their familiar hits nicely. The songs tell stories which suck you in, compelling you to listen even if you don’t know the words. Add in the vivacious personalities and exquisite harmonies of sisters Donna and Vikki, and the gorgeous meshing of the band’s instruments, and you’ve got an act that you’d happily hear perform anything they desired.

The Waifs are one of those bands I’d always meant to see but never quite gotten there. After enjoying a night in their company I can see why their fans are so passionate, and why they return for each and every tour. Next time I’m sure I’ll join them.

Image used with permission from Stephen Green Consulting

The Waifs Tempting Aussie Tour

It’s been four long years since The Waifs released their last album Sun Dirt Water, so I’m thrilled to hear some new material from this Western Australian folk act. Below I’ve posted “Angela” a stunning song from the band’s new album Temptation.

I am completely in love with this tune. It’s just so pretty and soulful and gorgeous, the kind of thing you want to play to all your friends. Thank goodness for this blog that allows me to do just that! If this is an indication of what we can expect from Temptation, the album’s going to be a stunner.

Temptation apparently sees The Waifs returning to their roots, with stripped back performances and songs contributed by all band members. The band laid it down while living together above Minneapolis’ Underwood Studios, playing, cooking, and reminiscing over a period of two weeks.

“You just went downstairs when it was your turn to do a take,” explained guitarist Josh Cunningham. “It was a great atmosphere to make an album in and I think you can hear that on the recordings.”

Temptation hits record stores on March 4, by which point The Waifs will already be winging their way around the country. You can see them live at the following venues around the country.

22 February 2011 – Moruya Memorial Hall, Moruya
23 February 2011 – Anita’s Theatre, Wollongong
24th February 2011 – Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra
26 February 2011 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
27 February 2011 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
1 March 2011 – The Northern, Byron Bay
2 March 2011 – Nambour Civic Centre, Nambour
3 March 2011 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
5 March 2011 – Old Broadwater Farm, Busselton
6 March 2011 – Castelli Estate, Denmark
8 March 2011 – Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah
9 March 2011 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
10 March 2011 – Astor Theatre, Perth
12 & 13 March 2011 – Port Fairy Folk Festival, Port Fairy
15 March 2011 – The Gov, Adelaide
16 March 2011 – The Forum, Melbourne
17 March 2011 – The Forum, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
19 & 20 March 2011 – Blue Mountains Folk Festival, Katoomba
21 March 2011 – Moncrieff Theatre, Bundaberg
23 March 2011 – James Cook University Uni Club, Townsville
24 March 2011 – Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns
26 March 2011 – Darwin Ski Club, Darwin
27 March 2011 – Mangrove Resort Hotel, Broome

Image used with permission from Stephen Green Consulting

The Waifs Tempting Tour

The Waifs have left us waiting two years for a tour, so they’re making amends in a big way with a monster run of dates through February and March.

The Western Australian born outfit, who now spend much of their time Stateside, will play shows to support their brand new album Temptation. With their sixth disc set to drop in early March, these shows will give some fans a little sneak peek at what’s to come.

Tickets are available from many of the venues now, and if they’re not already they will be soon!

22 February 2011 – Moruya Memorial Hall, Moruya
23 February 2011 – Anita’s Theatre, Wollongong
24 February 2011 – Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra
26 February 2011 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
27 February 2011 – Civic Theatre Newcastle, Newcastle
1 March 2011 – The Northern, Byron Bay
2 March 2011 – Nambour Civic Centre, Nambour
3 March 2011 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
5 March 2011 – Old Broadwater Farm, Busselton
6 March 2011 – Castelli Estate, Denmark
8 March 2011 – Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah
9 March 2011 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
10 March 2011 – Astor Theatre, Perth
12 & 13 March 2011 – Port Fairy Folk Festival, Port Fairy
15 March 2011 – The Gov, Adelaide
17 March 2011 – The Forum, Melbourne
19 & 20 March 2011 – Blue Mountains Folk Festival, Katoomba
21 March 2011 – Moncrieff Theatre, Bundaberg
23 March 2011 – James Cook University Uni Club, Townsville
24 March 2011 – Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns
26 March 2011 – TBA, Darwin
27 March 2011 – Mangrove Resort, Broome

Image source: The Waifs website

The Waifs Announce Aussie Tour

Western Australian folk darlings The Waifs are winging their way around Australia for a massive tour. They’ll play their home state with the fabulous Ani DiFranco before joining fellow folk singer Jez Mead for shows in the rest of the country.

The Waifs love to play the music their fans want to hear, so they’re encouraging you to speak up. Just visit their official website and follow the links to e-mail the band your three top tunes. What a great opportunity for Waifs fans to hear those forgotten favourites!

Check out The Waifs at the following venues next year! Tickets are on sale from November 21 from the venues and your regular ticket outlets.

22 January 2009 – Fremantle Arts Centre
24 January 2009 – Wignalls Winery, Albany
25 January 2009 – Leeuwin Estate Winery, Margaret River
28 January 2009 – Queens Park Theatre, Geraldton
29 January 2009 – Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah
31 January 2009 – Playhouse Theatre, Darwin
4 and 5 February 2009 – Hi Fi Bar, Melbourne
7 February 2009 – Peninsula Lounge, Moorooduc
8 February 2009 – Governor Hindmarsh, Adelaide
11 February 2009 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
14 February 2009 – Regent Theatre, Wollongong
15 February 2009 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
17 February 2009 – A&I Hall, Bangalow
18 February 2009 – Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane
21 February 2009 – Civic Theatre, Townsville
22 February 2009 – Cairns Civic Theatre
4 March 2009 – Wrest Point Entertainment Centre, Hobart
5 March 2009 – The Saloon, Launceston
7 March 2009 – CMC Rocks the Snowys, Thredbo

Image source: Jeaneeem @ Flickr

Aussie Artists Climbing The Charts

A diverse range of Australian artists have made their mark on the ARIA charts this week.

Fergie may have kept her stranglehold on the singles chart with her mammoth hit, “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” but she’s faced stiff competition from Shannon Noll. His new single “Loud” has debuted at number three.

Fellow Australian Idol graduate Ricki-Lee has slipped two places with “Can’t Touch It,” but the pop smash is still sitting pretty at number seven.

Jetsetting folksters The Waifs have debuted at number two with their latest album, Sun Dirt Water. But they couldn’t shift the might of British opera star Paul Potts, who holds the number one spot for the second week with One Chance.

The Waifs have pushed Damien Leith’s album Where We Land to number four. The John Butler Trio’s Grand National and Powderfinger’s Dream Days at the Hotel Existence round out the top ten. They’re holding steady at ninth and tenth spot.

No Splendour for Damien Rice

Hardworking Irish troubadour Damien Rice has pulled out of the upcoming Splendour in the Grass festival due to exhaustion.

“This is not a decision that I made lightly, but the busy touring/travel schedule this year has taken its toll on my health and my voice,” Damien said in a press release. “I’m sorry to say that I am exhausted and need to take some time off right now to recuperate and get my voice back in shape.”

The announcement follows Damien’s withdrawal from the Pentaport and Fuji festivals last weekend.

But dry your tears festival-goers! Aussie acoustic heroes The Waifs will appear at the festival in Damien’s place. As The Waifs are now based in the United States, there aren’t too many chances to catch this brilliant indie act. This will be The Waifs first, but hopefully not their last, Splendour appearance.

Image source: Menage a Moi @ Flickr.com