He’s the indie folk dreamboat that’s stolen our hearts over the last few years. Now, singer/songwriter Dustin Tebbutt is making his way around the country on a jam-packed tour celebrating his debut full-length, First Light. Holding down the much-loved Northcote Social Club for his second sold out show at the venue, Tebbutt treated his Melbourne fans to a truly gorgeous affair.
Opening the night was singer/producer Elle Graham, under the moniker Woodes. The crowd sat on the NSC floor as comfortably and intimately as they might in their own home, soaking up Woodes’ impeccably light vocals and powerful production work, her track The Thaw a highlight. It was a lovely way to start the night. Folk artist Robbie Miller was up next, commanding a change of mood as he doused the crowd in his emotionally charged songwriting. Some of his standout tracks included Sunday (which he lovingly explained is about his Grandma’s favourite day being Sunday because it’s a day for family) and his new release, Road.
It was downright gem Dustin Tebbutt, bursting onto the fairy-lit stage with his album title track that got feelings running high. First Light is sonically and lyrically intense, making for the perfect opener. Wooden Heart, Give Me Tonight and Still In My Heart were other highlights from the new album, while fan favourites Plans, The Kite String Tangle collab, Illuminate and the track that started it all, The Breach were eagerly met by the crowd.
Woodes also jumped back on stage to lend her voice to Silk, a gorgeously light and poppy track from Tebbutt’s 2015 EP, Home. This track originally featured vocals from Thelma Plum, whom Woodes matched exceptionally in her rendition, making it yet another beautiful listen for the night.
Everything seemed truly effortless as Tebbutt and his three-piece took over the stage, and they certainly didn’t leave ears disappointed with their performance sounding as tight as the album.
There’s no doubt that the most endearing quality that Tebbutt possesses as a musician, is that he’s the kind who just makes his audience feel completely at ease when he performs. If not for the ultra sense of calm that he oozes while he plays, it’s his A+ cheery banter and storytelling and sincere words of thanks to his crowd, all wrapped up in a loveable shyness, that make for being in his musical company an absolute pleasure. Genuine and self-effacing, he’s the kind of artist who makes you smile, not only for his music but his loveable nature as well.
BY ABBEY LEW-KEE
LOVED: Getting a cheeky wave back from Dusty as we crossed paths in the hallway.
HATED: It all seemed to end too quickly.
DRANK: Mercury Dry.
