Live Review: Asta

Opening the night, local duo in live trio mode Grrl Pal wrap the room in an embrace with their glittering electro-pop to much success. While most people still appear to be wandering around discovering Perth's latest venue, vocalist Jay LeKat holds the stage in a dense layering of vocals that force the realisation of how complex the group's sample use is as it sits perfectly atop the percussion of Danny K and Jacob Sawyer. With each song shifting the set's vibe intensely — and tracks like Radar, Dare and Paradise commanding attention — they prime themselves as a live act to watch as this year unfolds.

Following quickly, Lilt are also in live trio mode, although all three members are barely visible through the thick fog screen on stage. Their sound however is undeniable, the low BPM bass kicks and atmospheric builds encasing the vocal line of Louise Penman with a strange combination of attitude and innocence that's compelling to watch. Lilt find their stride in Can't Hear and Don't Tell Me but their set draws to a close in an awkward moment of MacBook death — minor attempts to finish the track are aborted, although it's impossible to wipe the sheen from their performance.

Taking the room into the intro of In The Red, Asta storms the stage like an attack, cutting shapes and playfully staring down members of the crowd. The evolution of the performer since her last national jaunt is instantly apparent. Soaring, precise vocals run on Asta's powerful range and her stage presence transforms what should be a standard club gig into something that feels more special. Asta is now a spectacle to behold. Showcasing new tracks such as Bad Behaviour, the set dips into everything from radio rock-pop to '80s synth dance beats. The crowd laps up every moment of the more familiar I Need Answers and My Heart Is On Fire and the aptly titled closer, Dynamite, for the end of a fantastic evening showcase of talent.