The line is around the block at The Fortitude Music Hall to get a tiny bit closer to the enigmatic Matt Corby (26 May).
An equally mysterious man in black, Bud Rokesky commences the night.He covers Leon Bridges' 'River' and entices the crowd to join in. His tone is smooth and smokey, the equivalent of that nice scotch you had in a dive bar years ago and never found again.
Great Gable bring their quintessentially Western Australian surf-rock sound, and the vibe is rising as they play 'Dancing Shoes' and heads start bobbing along.
Their cover of 'Fireflies' is expectedly well received, and wow we haven't heard this song in a while.
On the dot, Matt Corby comes out. "It's lovely to be here," he says, before he commences playing a real upright piano. The stage floods red as the silky drums kick in.
Matt Corby - image © Sarah Caust
During 'Problems', Corby flows effortlessly through vocal runs as the green and blue lights pulse frenetically.
In 'Lover' Corby's incredible, effortless belt begins shining through – soulful and guttural. 'All Fired Up' starts with a single light streaming down on Corby, and the room is silent. The man is a powerhouse.
"I've got to sit down," he says. "It's bloody hot in here." To be expected in a sold-out venue.
'No Ordinary Life' flows beautifully with a kaleidoscopic light show accompanying the soaring piano. The drums kicking in is a special moment. "If you look up you can see it in the sky, heavenly colours that paralyse the laws inside your mind," are lyrics that stick with you.
A solo song played on nylon string guitar is a gentle lull of sunshine, before more riveting vocals ensue.
Matt Corby - image © Sarah Caust
Matt picks up an electric that growls aggressively for 'Souls A'Fire', a bluesy track featuring pumping drums and a slick guitar solo. Corby is energetic and fierce, showcasing his versatility.
"It's been a real treat to play for y'all tonight," Corby says. "I don't take it lightly that you spent your hard earned cash to be here, so thank you."
Resolution ensues, and Corby's often perfect songwriting shines as the entire room soaks in joy.
His cover of 'No Scrubs' begins the encore and is of course a massive hit. 'For Real' again showcases Corby's spectacular vocals. 'Brother' has the crowd going off singing every word, before 'Miracle Love' closes the set. Corby invites the crowd to sing and it is beautiful.
Corby is unlike any other artist. He is an entirely unique poet and voice. His songwriting utilises his vocal ability to the maximum and is perfectly sublime and singable. An unforgettable experience that cannot be missed.
More photos from the show.
