Live Review: Urthboy, One Sixth & Jimblah

The influx of punters into the venue is slow but steady. Contrary to the run sheets posted by the bars, it's Jimblah who steps up on stage first. As the most recent signing to Elefant Traks, there are a few people who have gathered to see what this intriguing young artist can do. Jimblah's set is strong – this is an MC with considerable talent and plenty to say, although his set structure and crowd interaction could both use some development.

Local MC One Sixth steps up next, accompanied by Mata & Must for a set. (Interestingly, both Jimblah and One Sixth are former winners of the Hilltop Hoods Initiative – they've certainly found themselves in good company tonight.) One Sixth's set is primarily composed of tracks from his recent debut album Electronic Mail, with standout performances of SMS (Six Million Stories) and Round The Sun, plus a verse from local legend Mantra. With plenty of natural charisma and some seriously slick rhymes, it's not long before One Sixth has the crowd well and truly warmed up.

Of course, the person that everyone has come to see is Urthboy, and when he finally takes the stage to the ominous opening notes of Cold Front, the crowd explodes into a dancing, hollering mass. This time around, Urthboy's brought a live band – he's got drums, keys, DJ Jaytee and, as always, the incredible Jane Tyrrell. The high-energy set is full of crowd-pleasers – everyone is more than happy to belt out the chorus to Hellsong and sing along with Stories.

Urthboy's had a great year (a critically-acclaimed album, another Australian Music Prize nomination, plenty of tours and festival slots) and it shows in his big-hearted, joyous performance. Few artists seem to love the stage as much as he does. Whether it's the flirtatious Your Call or the controlled swagger of Naive Bravado, Urthboy is completely on his game. His lyrical delivery is tight and his appreciation for the crowd is genuine. The room feels positively bathed in his goodwill.

The last song, Orphan Rocker, is (of course) not the last song. After a brief absence, the gang return to the stage for a truly spectacular rendition of The Big Sleep – an emotional, slower-paced song that nonetheless resonates live, thanks in large part to Tyrrell's exceptional vocal performance. Served closes out the evening, with the Corner's red curtains finally drawing to signify the end of a great gig.