The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra

Featuring Bret McKenzie from Flight of the Conchords, here is something that could either be truly amazing or amazingly bad.
Hannah Ongley
Published on March 25, 2012

Overview

Here is something that could either be truly amazing or amazingly bad — twelve ukulele players juxtaposing madcap antics against comically budget special effects. The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra is actually a bit of both. Trading on Wellington’s reputation as being a cross between Middle Earth and the Middle of Nowhere, and the fact that the unpretentious uke is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity within hipster circles, the orchestra employs that sincere brand of irony perfected by Flight of the Conchords (not very surprising fact: Bret McKenzie is actually a member of the band).

But WIUO wouldn’t have had four best-selling EPs if they were just a bunch of average musicians strumming along to lyrics about hilariously mundane sexual encounters. They can actually play their instruments very well, and it’s this mix of quintessentially Kiwi self-effacement and undeniable skill that makes them so charming. Their last Australian tour sold out early, so get in quick — Brett McKenzie’s presence remains uncertain, but fantastic ukulele solos, heavenly harmonies and chaotic banter are 100% guaranteed.

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