Despite the fact he’s yet to release a full-length record, Matt Corby has no shortage of fans – something that quickly became apparent when his recent Sydney and Melbourne shows sold out mere hours after going on sale. Heading to the Forum on a balmy Monday night, this dedication was again on display, with fans flocking to claim a prime spot before support act R.W. Grace even took the stage.
The early arrivals were instantly captured by Grace’s dramatic voice that rang out through the theatre. Despite looking like your standard dainty songstress, Grace proved you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Her husky vocals, electric guitar and soulful tracks impressed, as did a stunning cover of Dancing On My Own.
Corby’s set kicked off with a captivating rendition of the new single Monday, which he performed entirely solo, using a loop pedal to add vocals, harmonies and handclaps. Monday set the tone for the night’s setlist, which featured plenty of new songs – surely an indication Corby’s debut album is not far away.
Despite his superbly powerful voice, Corby was incredibly demure between songs. With Corby it’s all about the music – no frills attached. Despite the odd muttering here and there, Corby’s crowd engagement was very minimal, instead closing his eyes and letting the music do the talking.
Scattered in between new tracks were some old favourites. While Resolution is still as powerful as ever, Brother felt a bit rushed and is no longer the highlight it used to be. The clear standout was the bluesy Souls A’Fire, which provided some variety in the otherwise ballad-heavy set.
With one of the best voices in music at the moment – which is even better in a live setting – it’s no surprise that fans flock to see Corby in the numbers that they do. If these shows are anything to go by, his debut album will do big things next year.
BY KELSEY BERRY
Photo by Anna Kanci
Loved: New tunes.
Hated: Drunk bogans yelling things.
Drank: Jim Beam.
