Courtney Barnett at Cambridge Junction by Matt Thorpe
Courtney Barnett is no stranger to the UK. She's been to the country a few times before, and this is her second time in Cambridge. The only difference between now and when she last played is that she has a brand new album titled "Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit" and tonight's venue is about three and a half times the size as the venue she played in just last year. Barnett has seen her fan base and support growing rapidly in the UK and across Europe and by tripling the size of venues in just a space of a year proves that. However, judging by Barnett's ecstatic live performance it's very clear to tell that she is more than comfortable to play larger venues and it would be no surprise to see her tripling venues again in the coming year.
Fraser A. Gorman stepped onto the stage with just his acoustic guitar and a harmonica around his neck. Gorman and Barnett know each other. Gorman is signed to Barnett's label Milk! Records and has appeared in one or two of Barnett's music video (and Barnett has appeared in one or two of Gorman's videos). Gorman has a very country and folk influenced sound. His sense of humour is very dry and slightly awkward, but none-the-less he got a chuckle from an audience that seemed to be enjoying his music a lot. He played songs from his E.P including 'Book of Love' and some from his forth-coming debut album "Slow Gum" (out June 2015). Gorman could definitely find himself feeling at home with Barnett's fans as his peaceful and sweet country sounds weren't too dissimilar to Barnett's upbeat sound.
Spring King at Cambridge Junction by Matt Thorpe
Courtney Barnett at Cambridge Junction by Matt Thorpe
Courtney Barnett's live shows may not be exactly what you expect by listening to her records but it is a show you can't miss. There's energy, it's loud and there are mosh pits, everything needed for a good show. It won't be long before she is gracing stages such as Brixton Academy. Make sure you check out our interview with her here and her label Milk! Records and watch Barnett's video for "Pedestrian at Best" below:
- Words by Nathan McLaren-Stewart