By Christina Miller
Staff Writer
The Waifs will be bringing their down under, folk singing talents to an eager audience of Pepperdine viewers this week. This group of three, all the way from North Australia, is becoming a growing success as they travel the world, collecting rave reviews. This year marks their first tour of North American clubs and festivals.
In-Press Magazine said they are “the best live display of vocal, musical and new songwriting talent by an Australian band.”
The Waifs have been together for the past 10 years. The group is comprised of two sisters, Donna and Vikki Simpson, guitarist Josh Cunningham, a drummer and a bass player.
All three of the main performers write and sing, displaying a collaboration of creativity.
They have four CDs, the most recent, “London Still,” was released in June 2002. “Sink or Swim,” their third CD, has also been popularly received.
This last summer the Waifs performed at all the major folk festivals in America.
“They play on stage with such an empowered dedication and genuine enjoyment of their craft that it is impossible, and I mean that in the truest sense of the word, impossible not to feel the energy and warmth and love that is emitting from the stage,” wrote Craig New, in the Revolver.
The Waifs play acoustic music that brings a breath of fresh air to the regular band scene, and their lyrics offer a poetic rhythm.
They have a creative collection of songs, from songs called “The Waitress” to “Love Serenade” to “Lies.”
The subject matter varies from romantic music sung in duets, to songs about anger and deceit sung in a higher and edgier voice. Donna Simpson trades off with her sister, Vikki Simpson, in lead vocals.
The Waifs will be performing on Saturday at 8 p.m. They can be seen at Smoothers Theater. Tickets are $6 for Pepperdine students and can be purchased at (310) 506-4522 or TicketMaster at (213)365-3500.
October 03, 2002