Bittercup + Emily Riordan: The Quieter Tour

Bittercup and Emily Riordan present The Quieter Tour 2019, showcasing their debut EPs, “Negative Space” and “Waves” respectively.

Bittercup is the personal catharsis machine of Callum Wagstaff. He hates himself and has found people enjoy the fruits of his shameful confessions, related in sweet serenades, intense outbursts and rarely anything in between.

“Negative Space” sounds like a resounding hiss of defiance followed by a pathetic whimper of resignation. At times bordering on hypnotic, it regularly breaks that state with stark and sardonic refrains. Comparisons have included Placebo, 30 Seconds to Mars, and Trent Reznor.

Emily Riordan plays dreamy, melancholic soft pop influenced by her roots in classical piano and singing with a twist of Lana Del Rey. Her songs, featuring understated instrumentals and mellow, delicate vocals, are inspired by the highs and lows of human connection.

“Waves” is a collaborative project with producer Shxshi, featuring four songs that each reflect a specific moment in time and try to recreate the feeling of that moment. Shxshi’s lo-fi, trap beats gently cradle the pensive, wistful tone of Riordan’s lyrics and voice.

Supporting Bittercup and Emily Riordan in Wellington will be Lauren Nottingham - Vocalist, singer/songwriter and voice of MultiPlayer, who has established herself as one to watch in New Zealand’s jazz scene. Accompanying Lauren will be guitarist Jake Church Guitar, an accomplished contemporary guitarist with numerous national awards under his belt.