Simply amazing
Since being exposed to The Waifs SINK OR SWIM on the local community folk radio program some months back, I purchased it straightaway and haven't regretted it for an instant. In fact, it seems like forever that I have awaited the release of UP ALL NIGHT. I was blessed to be able to witness the terrific talent and energy of Vikki & Donna Simpson, and Josh Cunningham (The Waifs) on May 3rd at Tropical Heatwave in Tampa. And afterwards, I purchased a copy of UP ALL NIGHT. What a musical treat this CD is from the opening cut throughout it's 48 minute length. With the beautiful vocals of Vikki and Donna and Josh's terrific guitar work, that would be enough in and of itself to offer a sumptuous feast for the soul. But then add Vikki's infectious harmonica-playing which infuses so much on Fisherman's Daughter, Lighthouse, 4th Floor. etc., and you have a CD that, for me, is the best musical purchase that I have made in 2003, by far. It is so very strong lyrically and beautiful musically that I cannot help but sing its praises. And as they are on tour currently, opening for Bob Dylan (when not performing alone), make every effort to see them if you are one to appreciate someone sharing their talents and loving doing it. Mark my words. Peace.
An Aussie Triumph
'Up All Night' is, to put it simply, one of the best albums you could ever hope to hear. With vocals that go from soulful to searing, guitar that does the same, and songwriting that puts the Fred Dursts of the world to shame, The Waifs have put together something remarkable. It's not often you hear an independent release that sounds this good, and it is to the bands credit that they are achieving more exposure than ever. Donna (will you marry me?), Vikki and Josh combine brilliantly on every song. It is just so refreshing to hear music that shows clearly how much the artists enjoy making it. The standout tracks are London Still (an anthem for all Aussie expats), Fisherman's Daughter, and Fourth Floor, each different, but each brilliant in its own right. The Waifs style is hard to classify, but this pop/folk/country trio quite obviously have the magic touch, and it is a shame more people aren't aware of them. If you have a brain you will buy this album, and support independent music. Also, if you ever get a chance to see them live, do whatever it takes to get to the show.They are always amazing. This is music to put a smile on your face.
Shades of Paul Kelly, Jewel, Bonnie Raitt, Joni Mitchell....
If you are into any of these artists, you will love "Up all Night". There are echoes of all these musical styles in this album. This covers them all. Joshua Cunningham's vocals on 'Since I've Been Around' are reminiscent of Paul Kelly (another great Australian folk/blues singer), as are the catchy instumentals on 'Lighthouse'.
The songs on this album are composed of deceptively simple poetry, which reminded me of Jewel's songwriting. There is often a deeper meaning, as in 'Fourth Floor'. I even felt shades of Joni Mitchell in this one. And 'Three Down' is a country-bluesy song in the same vein as many Bonnie Raitt songs.
The Waifs are unique in the way they bring all these musical styles together. The great musicality, featuring the ever-present harmonica, and the harmonies of the Simpson sisters, are the connecting thread through this album. But there is enough variety for repeated listening. This is one of the best albums I have heard for some time.
another stellar effort
although their 2nd album remains my favourite to date, this is another fantastic effort by the Aussie trio. Coming off a tour opening for Dylan, The Waifs are *this close* to becoming a name in the US. Have a listen, take a chance - you won't be disappointed!
You'll be UP ALL NIGHT listening to this record
Call it American folk, call it alt.country, call it what you like, but if you heard this Aussie trio on CBS or NPR earlier this week, suffice to say their in a category all their own. Love that harmonica. Up All Night by the Waifs is appropriately titled. I'll be up all night listening to it!
The Waifs may hail from Australia, but their canny blend of acoustic blues, country, and folk wouldn’t sound out of place in the sort of hip Texas roadhouse that has Townes Van Zandt and Bob Dylan on the jukebox. The trio consists of sisters Vicki and Donna Simpson, who both play guitar and harmonize beautifully, and multi-instrumentalist Joshua Cunningham. All three are fine songwriters, and although they each have distinctly different styles, their compositions fit together like a musical mosaic. Cunningham’s moving, hopeful "Lighthouse" can be heard as a response to Donna’s bittersweet song of homesickness, "London Still," which in turn echoes in Vicki’s road ballad, "Three Down." The Waifs may play the same Dobros, mandolins, and guitars that any American folk or alt-country band play, but their Australian accents and outlook give them a refreshing take on the style. --Michael Simmons
