Live Review: Melbourne Music Week

When Face The Music panels and keynotes break for lunch, it's naturally time for some live music out on the library forecourt. Jawn's music borrows heavily from pop-inspired indie-folk with a little bit of American country/bluegrass seeping in as well. But it is just a little too safe and fails to establish any real identity for the technically talented performer. Also hailing from Singapore, Stopgap kind of follow a similar suit. While taking a more indie-pop rock slant, unfortunately they just sound a little dated.

Acclaimed local act Jaala round out the lunchtime showcase and in the past have been a little shaky on the live stage, not being able to fully capture their dynamic and eclectic on-record sound. Fortunately today is a good all 'round introduction to the band as they showcase some of their dreamier numbers along with some of the louder, more Dirty Projectors-style moments.

After talks wrap up for the day, it's time to grab a beer and snag a bit of shade. Back in State Library Victoria's forecourt, as part of MMW Triple R's drive-time shows have been broadcasting live and this afternoon it's Breaking And Entering's turn. They have an excellent and diverse line-up performing half-hour sets for thirsty Face The Music attendees and the general public. Electronic duo Pillow Pro cause nothing but envy from the sunburnt front row as a marquee is erected for them to perform under. The crowd don't seem to mind the heat. As the set progresses, the music itself is quite soothing and, at times, sonically blissful.

Up next and sporting a chainmail bonnet (?), Hiatus Kaiyote frontwoman Nai Palm is such a natural performer and makes her sporadic/soulful vocals and noodly guitar lines look incredibly easy. Her truly powerful voice sounds rich and full; she could probably go without a microphone. While the Hiatus Kaiyote neo-soul vibe is a little gone here, you don't see anyone complaining.

As that punishing sun starts to set Remi and Sensible J draw a sizeable and enthusiastic crowd. Beginning with a Welcome To Country piece featuring an experimental indigenous artist embracing some truly dense and interesting sounds. Performing some haunting spoken word over didgeridoo loops and some form of throat singing, we would love a full set of this. Remi comes out of the gates raring, performing new and old material and it gets our blood pumping. Clearly humbled, Remi honours Triple R's 40th Year by playing a sample of Stevie Wonder's Happy Birthday and dancing along before returning to his usual cool self, capping off the set with certified banger Substance Therapy.