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Despite having released just one EP and performing guest vocals on only a handful of tracks for other stars, rising Australian star Chet Faker last night performed a sold-out show in London's Cargo.
With the local Shoreditch stereotypes milling into the trendy East London hot spot there’s a feeling that tonight will hopefully bring confirmation of Chet’s UK seal of approval. If the hipsters are listening to it first then it’s only a matter of time before everyone else hops on the bandwagon too.
With an eerie opening composition Chet walks onto the stage in a beanie hat and a Nike jumper where there’s something immediately humbling about his relaxed stage presence. Opening track, Burial cover ‘Archangel’, is beautifully haunting with vocal chords that seep through the silence in the air.
The crowd is already completely enthralled by the exquisite sounds coming from a man who hides behind his keys but speaks more through words than actions. There’s no need for flamboyant showmanship here, tonight is all about the music and it’s clear from Chet’s tonality and soul that the words speak from truth and consciousness.
‘Terms and Conditions’ and ‘Solo Sunrise’ continue into the set with Chet apologizing for the unobtrusive start, however we’re not complaining at all. Infact it’s the breakdown of the verses and the simple instrumentation that allow for his vocals to really shine and to stand, listen and unwind.
Mid set allows for the band to experiment with some synthasised tempos and drum rhythms that flicker between jazz influence and mainstream pop beats. At times the pace pushes into a boundary of uncertainty, feeling as if the music may combust at any moment. The risk taking sound is nicely done, keeping the audience on the edge of their toes with syncopated time switches that are strikingly accomplished.
The Aussie is relaxed and smiles as ‘I’m Into You’ is well received by the cheering crowd sensing the end of the short set. The audience is now fully in swing and taking Instagram pictures from every flattering angle. Ending on an encore of Blackstreet’s ‘No Diggity’ hands are waving to the beat in the air and a sense of joy as tonight we’ve witnessed something special.
The intimacy before a musical act makes their big breakthrough is something exciting to witness and from tonight’s performance there’s no doubting the UK will be hearing a lot more from Chet Faker.
