Tash Sultana intoxicates at Fremantle Arts Centre
Photo credit: Cool Perth Nights
Soulful in every right, Tash Sultana has a voice that could part oceans.
Having landing third in last year’s triple j ‘Hottest 100’ and secured a place in the Top 10 of the ARIA chart, the young star’s sold-out Thursday show drew in more than 3,000 people of all ages to the charming courtyard of Fremantle Arts Centre. Casting its gaze upon the scene on a cool summer’s evening was none other than a surreal Perth sunset. It was a magical sight for anyone attending; beneath the colours of the sleepy sky and the trail of lights, everyone sought to find their way through the bustling market stalls, anticipated chatter and the ever-growing crowd.
Whether you had decided to lay down beneath the trees or were entirely devoted to hanging around near the stage, Tash Sultana’s presence was inescapable. Supported by fellow former buskers Piece Brothers and tropical rave pop duo Willow Beats, this was Tash’s homecoming after playing an impressive series of sold-out shows worldwide.
The former busked turned one woman show is no stranger to performing live. Kicking off her set with ‘Higher’ from her debut EP Notion, Tash instantly captured listeners with her soothing and diverse soundscape. With hard-hitting baselines and guitar riffs paired with gorgeous vocals and a whole lot of reverb, the young Melbourne artist was in high spirits. After all, how could she not? It was a day that marked history, with same-sex marriage having just been legalised in Australia. Despite having been dosed up on Panadine (thanks to a cracked rib and a dislocated knee, in her words), the artist endured while still beaming from ear to ear. And she had every reason to be.
With the crowd embracing her intently, Tash remarked reminiscently, “A year ago, I played at Mojos in Freo, and it was to a hundred people three nights in a row. How crazy is it that I’m here now?”
Not so crazy, in fact. Tash's linear success has been almost natural. The self-taught artist doesn’t hide behind a mask, and she doesn’t hold back. Tash pours all kinds of love into having her audience feast on her earnest music. All throughout, her psychedelic soundscape flowed seamlessly. It was a relaxing set for most part, with the exception of a few playful feats shaking things up — cue her beatboxing and trumpet skills, served with a side of mischievous percussion. All terrific palate cleansers between each track.
Moving onto ‘Gemini’, ’Murder To The Mind’ and later onto ‘Notion’, she continued to intoxicate for the rest of the night. 'Jungle' and 'Mystik' were no doubt celebrated, too. Alike the song, Tash was in perfect synergy with her audience.
If you missed out last night, you might still stand a chance to see her live at her second show this evening.
