MATT CORBY delivered an outstanding performance at his sold out show at the Roundhouse in London last week.

He is the reason I believe humans are capable of magic.

Matt Corby is a perfectionist. And his live shows are no exception.

It took him only five EPs to finally finish the debut album. Twice to be precise. Originally, recorded in Los Angels two years ago it didn’t see the light of day the first time round. Since the artist wasn’t happy with the results, the entire project was scrapped.

All that had led to locking himself away and spending some time in solitude. About six months amongst the sounds seeking the right ones.

Apparently, it helped.

The moment I found out this Australian artist would come over and do some touring across the UK I knew there was no chance I’d miss it.

Kicking off with Belly Side Up, the opening track of his debut album Telluric (released Mar 11), Matt Corby spells a cast on the audience. I think that’s the best way to describe what is happening. Everyone goes completely silent.

I have been torn up with the right to be starts towering over the crowd letting the Australian singer-songwriter to unveil his wide vocal range. His soulful inspirations show across Knife Edge and Do You No Harm with soaring lyrics I get angry at myself for trying to impress you, which seem quite unnecessary if I’m to be honest. Pretty sure everyone is impressed enough.

His glorious 2013 Resolution is an obvious stand-out. Corby’s choral vocals echo across the room going from deep low-pitched notes to a high falsetto making everyone hold their breaths whilst Sooth Lady Wine is a chance for a little bit of humming and swinging to If you feel alright Let yourself dance Don’t sit out tonight If you feel alright. 

The highlight of the evening is certainly the first single taken from the record – Monday. Corby is left alone on the stage with a looper pedal as his best friend and despite the first take being described as a little bit “fucked up”, he manages to create a beautiful and soothing harmony. Oh, I was never lost, I only chose to never go home rings in our heads and melts our hearts. Built up on vocal layers and body-beating percussion the track makes you think that music can’t simply get any better than this.

The band keep a similar vibe throughout the whole set what however, does not seem boring at all. Oh dear God, of course not. Corby displays more tracks taken from Telluric such as Oh Oh Oh, Why Dream and intertwines them with some good oldies and fans favourites Brother and Souls A’fire.

Worth to mention, the aesthetic aspect of the production makes the entire performance mesmerizing. The band, gathered behind the artist in a half-circle, beautifully fit into the set of lights. His magnetic stage presence captivates everyone’s attention showcasing the beauty of minimalism.

Whatever he decides to do, does not feel like enough.

And neither does this show.

Photo: Kasia Osowiecka