Live Review: Ash Grunwald, Morgan Bain

It's different arriving at the Rosie and seeing the couches and tables pulled onto the dancefloor. It feels almost defeatist that nobody will be getting on their feet, although local songwriter Morgan Bain didn't appear deterred. Standing solo with his keyboard and wearing a heavy influence of The Purple One on his sleeve, Bain creates a storm of powerhouse vocals swept into funk/soul-driven melody with sample loops dropping the percussion. The world has all eyes on similarly styled acts such as Hozier in the headlining slots and Bain exhibits that he too is capable of reaching the same lofty heights. Why Don't You Stay and Lift You Up drip raw passion that's occasionally broken up with a ferocious guitar solo or uplifting keys bridge. The small room is truly treated to an emerging talent that's only one showcase performance (in the right room) from becoming a very well-known name.   

Just after ten, Ash Grunwald quietly strolls through the room with steel resonator in hand to loud applause. Previous radio experience is evident as Grunwald easily and charismatically captivates the room without dropping a note, instead conversing on the subject of a recent trip to Canada. Opening with the spirited ballad, Archie Roach's Weeping In The Forest is a surprising but well-fitting turn, adding a warmth and gentle flow to the set before firing into the foot-stomping Skywriter. Stomping is now aided by the debut of a new Farmer Foot Drum, which Ash comically struggles to adapt to, stating to himself, "Hopefully I don't fuck it up," and other than a few abstract fills, plays well when aided by local brass ensemble The Brow Horn Orchestra. Creating a unique party vibe akin to a campfire or house party when he plays, intimate and jovial, his music is enough to burn the night away with gusto. Taking a little from each album, the atmosphere is charging with Mojo and River, the swampy blues sounds building to a crescendo, the stage is bursting with energy from the wild guitar slides and movement. While many fan favourites get a turn during the night, riding the night out with Dolphin Song, Shake That Thing and a new jam, Grunwald once again shows that in any setting, he's one of the most genuinely electric performers touring at the moment.