Waifs, The

with Ani DeFranco and Mama Kin

Last year The Waifs were part of the huge Union OF Soul WA tour with John Butler, this year they return to headline a similar series of stunning outdoor concerts over the summer.

The founding artists of Australia’s independent music scene, The Waifs are honored to have America’s leading lady of independence, Ani DiFranco and her band along for the ride.

The Waifs have been one of West Australia's most loved and appreciated bands over their 20 year history. Building their fan base the hard way, playing every corner of the country, earning respect of peers and fans alike for their tenacity and drive to do things their own way. From the back streets of sleepy towns in WA, to an internationally loved, multiple ARIA Award winning multiple platinum selling act, (their latest release Sun Dirt Water now also platinum), The Waifs have paved the way for Australian independent artists to be able to forge successful careers outside of the major label rules.

This summer, the band will be touring for their fans…. literally! They will be placing the decision of the show set lists into the hands of the fans. Rarities, classics, the hits, and a few brand new ones! It will be up to the fans to decide. Fans can go to www.thewaifs.com and email their wish list of tracks they want to hear and the band will play a shortlist of the songs with the highest amount of nominations.

The Waifs started their career by touring WA from town to town in the back of a Toyota Hiace van, booking their own shows, promoting their own shows and releasing their own CDs. Each night they would package their CDs in post packs and send them out to record stores and fans alike. The only person who they could look to for inspiration for forming the true independent model in Australia was the inimitable Ani DiFranco.

Ani bucked the major label system in the early-‘90s, opting to release her music on her own terms and formed her own label Righteous Babe Records. She’s been called “fiercely independent” (Rolling Stone), “inspirational” (All Music Guide), “the ultimate do-it-yourself songwriter” (The New York Times).

Righteous Babe Records has released over 20 studio Ani albums.

On her new album, Red Letter Year, she takes more advantage of this freedom than ever before. Conceived, sculpted and refined over the course of two years – a lifetime compared to a typical Ani recording session – the album is an impeccably crafted, multi-layered sonic achievement.

The sultry sounds of Fremantle locals Mama Kin will be opening the shows.

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