Live Review: Jack Carty, Playwrite, Tom West

Opening the show and adding his own local flair to an establishment steeped in charisma, Tom West dispelled any potential rumours (most likely stemming from this review) that his recent Peruvian adventure might have altered his sound, with a beautiful set that warmed the smallish crowd that turned up for a Thursday night outing.

Following West’s performance was a stripped-back version of Melbourne indie group Playwrite, who have supported Carty for a fair chunk of this tour. Playing as a duo, Patrick and Jordan belted out a tight set filled with harmonising yet haunting vocals and heartfelt stories, including a tribute to Patrick’s late parents and the Prime Minister of Australia, Tony Abbott. Their set concluded with Whittaker, the five-piece’s brand new single, as they put on a show that perfectly reflected the Melbourne music scene.

This 31-date tour has taken Jack Carty around Australia and across the Tasman to neighbouring New Zealand and whilst he’s close to wrapping it all up, you could have easily thought that he was just about to start that tour. Carty bantered with the intimate audience as if they were his family and friends, which at one point they were, with his Aunt arriving a little late to the show and Carty making sure everyone knew. At one point he even made fun of the audience for their golf-style clapping, proving his confidence as a well-travelled troubadour.

Beginning his set performing with tracks off his new record, Esk, Carty soon delved deep into the vault, performing the first song off his debut album of the same title, One Thousand Origami Birds, and promptly following that with the first song, The Length Of Canada, off his second album, Break Your Own Heart. The sound at the charming Grace Emily was sensational and made for an enjoyable night.

There was a story to be told between each song, which kept the crowd interested and even got a few interacting when he asked for song suggestions, with Master Of All Things immediately asked for and seconded by two die-hard fans. Carty capped off his set with an immaculate version of And The Ass Saw The Angel, which certainly gave this reviewer goosebumps.

There are only three dates left on this mammoth Esk tour, so don’t think twice about the opportunity of seeing Carty play live if you live in New South Wales.