Live Review: Caitlin Park

Local favourite Caitlin Park treated fans to an intimate gig at 505 on Thursday night for the launch of her much-anticipated second LP, The Sleeper. Bathed in warm light and surrounded by loyal followers and friends, the relaxed, casual atmosphere was reinforced by the funny quips peppering through her diverse set.

After a lively opener, Wake Up In A Whirr – also the new album's opener – Park reverted to a standout from 2011's Milk Annual, Baby Teeth. Noted for its slick production, the live version didn't quite have the same impact, largely due to – it's worth noting – unreliable sound management that unfortunately impeded much of her performance.

Welcoming long-time collaborator, Aidan Roberts, to the stage, the pair performed a sweet, country-folk-twinged duet called Hunt For The Young, showcasing Park's softer side, while This Hand You Lent Me exhibited Park's musical eclecticism, leaning towards a jazzy, bluesy rhythm layered with dark harmonies and the inventive sampling she's becoming known for.

Recently released single, Hold Your Gaze, is driven by an infectious beat, emotive melody and layered textures that give Park's music a unique element, distinguishing it from so much other female-led indie-pop and folktronica. Park is commanding and feminine without being “girly”, and it's refreshing to hear how well her unexpected deep, husky tones work over the electro-acoustics.

Jack, Where You At is another gorgeous duet, coloured with expert harmonies thanks to Annie McKinnon. The title track from album number two is an upbeat number with slight nods to disco and soul, not to mention terrific tambourine placement.

With so much genre-bending, it can sometimes seem as though Park is an artist who hasn't quite cemented her place yet. That's not to say there isn't one for her, but rather that there's an exciting road ahead for the already adored and imaginative songstress.