Live Review: The Paper Kites, Patrick James

Starting the night off was Sydney indie-roots singer Patrick James, who opened things slowly with calming songs and harmonies, playing tunes from his new album, Outliers. Picking up the pace towards the middle of his set, James gained confidence and interacted more with audience, especially with a crowd-pleasing cover of Killers hit Runaways.

After a great start to the night it was finally time for the highly anticipated The Paper Kites. This five-piece were a funky mixture of indie and folk-rock. Beginning the set with one of their newer songs, showing everyone they aren't just the quirky folk band anymore, The Paper Kites had the audience captivated, joking around and telling stories. 

Celebrating the release of their new album Twelvefour, the Kites were flying high Friday night, treating the venue with songs old and new, never disappointing the crowd. The band played favourites such as Bloom and Woodland.

The most surreal experience is when one voice can silence a crowd, and that is exactly what frontman Sam Bentley did. He politely asked the audience to remain as quiet as possible to share his story of love, Neon Crimson — an absolutely unbelievable experience for everyone. From start to finish of the hauntingly beautiful track there was only the slightest of murmurs emerging from the crowd. It takes a talent greater than most to silence a nightclub.