Live Review: The Tallest Man On Earth

Tonight The Tallest Man On Earth authentically presented what most singer-songwriters arduously attempt to replicate - true, effortless showmanship. His accompanying four-piece backing band added textural depth that finely complemented both old and new tracks alike, without detracting attention from the lead man himself.

The Swedish folk singer jogged onto the stage, boisterously hopping to the centre with his arms outstretched, receiving rapturous applause. The artist (real name Kristian Matsson) got intimately acquainted with his audience with just a guitar to begin the night's affairs.

Matsson then introduced his band, who would help weave together these tales of divorce and the beautiful Swedish landscape. The lap-steel guitar, played by Ben Lester, proved to be a particular standout during the extended outro of Revelation Blues. The ambient calm it imposed didn't go unnoticed by Matsson, who pointed out a baby had since been laid to sleep. He then comically apologised to the parents for the "primal screams" he said were to come in next song, Criminals.

All of these small-but-recurring moments of crowd interaction worked to humorous and graceful effect. The Tallest Man On Earth's charisma bloomed most when given full reign of the enchanting Concert Hall. He carries the guitar like an extension of his body, gliding, crouching and covering all corners of the stage while performing The Gardener before concluding this song back at the microphone with an impressively sustained note.

It was amusing to see the energetic performer struggle to sit still while lying down during stunning rendition of Rivers. This restlessness peaked when he dropped his guitar pick during Love Is All, which required that he skip to his amp to replace it. This was done while somehow never losing an ounce of his playful confidence.

A standing ovation for his main set encouraged an encore. The Dreamer was bolstered with surprisingly thunderous drum beats. The stage band then ditched their instruments to form a beautiful choir that accompanied The Tallest Man On Earth's tender vocals. The five musicians finished the night by joining arms and bowing out to a well-deserved second standing ovation.