Live Review: Jane Tyrrell, Elana Stone, Maples

A triumphant trio of talented women transfixed us tonight at the Newtown Social Club.

To start the evening, a small relaxed crowd fell silent as Maples (aka Gabby Huber) wove her spell of dark indie-pop. It was satisfying to see the crowd taking in the sounds of Huber, also known for her part in Dead Letter Chorus. Maples’ use of two microphones was hypnotic and her self-proclaimed “sucky” banter was anything but. A beautifully rounded set to warm us up.

Suddenly, Elana Stone hit the stage with a star jump and didn’t stop moving throughout her set. Stone’s infectious positivity, humorous chat and dodgy dance moves were only surpassed by the catchy pop airs she performs. When Stone picks up the piano accordion, we are impressed and her solo performance of Mariah Carey’s Emotions was a lesson in loop pedal magic. Stone has been working hard to establish a hold in Sydney’s scene and deserves widespread recognition for excellent songwriting and unleashing “dance juice” to her audience.

It has been a long time coming, but we have been happy to wait for Jane Tyrrell’s debut performance because we knew it would be something special. Her album Echoes In The Aviary is an example of precise, musical perfection. The opening track of the evening is arguably the best on the album. Raven is a Game Of Thrones-inspired masterpiece of dark and foreboding and immediately displays the beautiful organic melodies of Tyrrell. The show was expertly brought to life with the help of Dustin McLean on keys, Josh Barber on drums and Nick Lam on bass and guitar. Tyrrell plays through her album with The Rush standing out as a highlight along with her rendition of Paul Kelly’s Stolen Apples.

Jane Tyrrell brings more than just talent to the stage. She brings depth, compassion and presence to a performance that translates into reoccurring shivers down our spines.