Nick Murphy, aka Chet Faker, is the rising star of the Australian music industry. He has started 2015 by not only landing Number One in Triple J’s Hottest 100, but also with a tour that is sure to please fans. The Melbourne local was met with the roar of two and a half thousand people, bringing to life the Royal Theatre at the National Convention Centre on Wednesday night.

The initial support act, GL, is a self-proclaimed ‘cosmic funk revivalist’ performed a lively and enjoyable set. Unfortunately the next act, Roland Tings, didn’t quite hit the spot. By trying to conjure up an ‘acid-house’ set that left the audience consciously desperate for Chet to make his way on stage.

As the lights went down, the crowd got louder in anticipation of the oh-so-cool solo artist to take his place. Joined by three other musos, he opened with a very laid-back vibe. It was true to Chet Faker’s overall image and artistry, transitioning through to one of his first ever tunes, I’m Into You. Between each song, you got closer to the real Nick Murphy as he casually talked to the crowd and introduced his songs.

It wasn’t long before Faker performed his cover of No Diggity that is known to have given him his break in the industry. It was later matched when he gave a never-before-heard rendition of Moondance – proving that any song can be shaken up and made into his own. It was, however, the more popular songs off the debut album Built On Glass – such as Gold and 1998 – that really got the audience involved. The intricate rhythms and musicality were too much for some people to listen to sitting down, forcing them onto their feet to dance in the aisles.

I’d like to note one of the more heartfelt moments of the night, where the man of the evening sauntered to the front of the stage and addressed everyone in the room, asking them to completely put down their phones for at least the next song. He is clearly a big believer of living in the moment, giving permission for people to slap phones from the hands of others who couldn’t resist recording that deep and unique timbre that is his voice.

It should be said however, that the show was not entirely perfect. It was a struggle to hear Chet’s voice as soon as the instruments kicked in, however this was through no fault of his own, being an issue for the technicians to work on. Despite this, a bigger live band would also have made it a more memorable gig.

For fans that are fond of his musical approach, seeing him live would have been an amazing experience. For others, it may not have been quite the performance they were hoping, as the show was relaxed and undemanding, in line with his style, and not about the dramatics.

Now a big name in the music industry, Chet Faker created hype for his Canberra fans, and his strong stage presence was something to be admired. All in all, it was a show that cannot be overlooked.

Photography: Jez Rozdarz