The Unfaithful Ways (ChCh) Wildwood Lights & Luckless

Since forming in 2008, The Unfaithful Ways have been steadily widening their sound, embracing everything from traditional country and gentle folk to '70s-influenced, harmony-rich, pop/rock. Their haunting melodies are unable to leave you alone. In their time together they have made an impression on the Christchurch music scene with their polished ensemble and clean, clear vocal harmonies. They have played alongside The Eastern, John Grenell, Von Klap, Lindon Puffin, Justin Townes Earle & Band of Horses.

Also a reunion show for Wildwood Lights! Bassist Hannah Freer returns from Melbourne to play with the Wildies, expect old songs, new songs, borrowed songs and blue songs! The rotating lead vocal allows for variation in sound and subject, whilst still running with the common theme of love and loss. Their songs are tinged with a dash of irony that legends like June Carter Cash and Wanda Jackson were known to evoke. The band also pays homage to girl groups like The Ronettes in preferring to play in a line, with stand-up drums in the centre. The result is balanced and concise live shows which mix up tempo numbers and slower waltzes.

Luckless a.k.a. Ivy Rossiter also graces us! (Ivy has currently been filling in on bass for Wildwood Lights). A mix of bitter and salty instrument sounds, with honey-laced melodies and loop pedals. Luckless adds loop pedals and atmospherics to an unvarnished vocal sound to create crafted, layered music with an unrefined, naïve edge. References to artists such as PJ Harvey, Iron & Wine and Cat Power abound. Four track tape recorders, old organs and valve amplifiers have created warmth throughout Luckless’s otherwise rough, raw arrangements. Some Luckless songs groove, while others take pause and reflect. Holding it all together is a sense of detachment and isolation, with Rossiter’s eerie vocals a common thread throughout.

Event listed by Wildwood Lights

View their other events or contact promoter