Wiri Donna – In My Chambers (13th Floor EP Review)

0

Wiri Donna is the musical project of Bianca Bailey, an artist from Wellington, whose sound has evolved from indie-folk beginnings into a powerful, indie-rock juggernaut.

The band’s current lineup includes Harrison Scholes on bass, known for his work with Arjuna Oakes and TOI, James MacEwan on drums, also from Arjuna Oakes, and Elliott Dawson on guitar. Together, they Wiri Donnacreate a potent mix of rock, grunge, and indie influences, reminding us of acts like The Cure and Dry Cleaning. The band’s latest EP, In My Chambers, was produced by James Goldsmith, who has shaped the band’s bolder, more confident sound at The Surgery studio.

In My Chambers, brings together six tracks that blend introspective lyrics with expansive and energetic instrumentals. Opening the EP is The Gold, which bursts into life with crashing guitars and drums. The song’s alternating dynamics between heaving verses and explosive choruses set the tone for the EP. Bailey’s vocals remain clear and cleverly blended into the music, creating an atmospheric feel. As the track crescendos towards the end, it leaves the listener with a buzzing note that fades into silence, echoing the intensity of the performance.  Following this, the title track, In My Chambers, starts by channelling The Cure. The rhythmic guitar and drum intro lead into a danceable, urgent melody. There is a vibrant energy throughout, and Bailey’s vocal intensity shifts, enhancing the emotional pull of the narrative.

Stop Charades, commences with softer vocals, before escalating into a dramatic mix of crashing guitars and pounding drums. The contrast between the softer beginning and the intense, heightened vocals at the one-minute mark highlights the song’s emotional range. The momentum continues with Bad Behaviour follows, with fast guitar and skidding drums. This track is full of impulsive energy, making the listener feel as if decisions are being made on the fly. It showcases the tight, energetic interplay of band maturing.

Slowing the pace down, Hell or Highwater takes a more methodical approach. The spoken-word style lyrics pull the listener into the song’s darker, introspective territory. As the music grows louder and more aggressive, the shifting tempo mirrors the tension within the lyrics, creating a feeling of being overwhelmed by the music and words alike. The EP closes with Sink, a track that initially races forward with fast-paced guitars and drums but slows down for the vocals, providing a complex interplay between fast and slow sections. This dynamic contrast keeps the listener engaged to the end.

In My Chambers is a bold, cohesive work that reflects Wiri Donna’s growth as a band. The interplay between Bianca Bailey’s evocative vocals and the dynamic musical structures creates an exciting indie-rock EP.

John Bradbury

Wiri Donna ‘ In My Chambers’ 2024 Tour Dates 

  • 15 November, Darkroom, Christchurch

  • 16 November, Yours, Dunedin

  • 21 November, Paisley Stage, Napier

  • 22 November, Last Place, Hamilton

  • 23 November, Double Whammy, Auckland

  • 6 December, San Fran, Wellington (Moshtix)

Tickets available from Under The Radar & Moshtix (Wellington

show only) or : HERE

John Bradbury
Latest posts by John Bradbury (see all)