It’s been an eventful couple of months for Brisbane’s Live Music Scene. Each week, we have been lucky enough to be treated with many upcoming performers in the music industry, both international and Australian acts. This night was no different. While Sufjan Stevens serenaded a crowd at the QPAC Concert Hall, Natalie Prass was also commanding the stage over at the intimate confines of the Black Bear Lodge. Fun fact: Natalie actually mentioned that she spotted Sufjan when she landed at the Brisbane Airport. 

Anyway, I digress. Kicking off the evening for Natalie’s show was Sydney folk songstress, Julia Jacklin. Sporting a boho-chic sundress with her wavy blonde hair flowing down the sides of her neck, Jacklin delved right into her emotionally vulnerable set, which covered subjects such as failed relationships and drifting families. A lone figure on stage, Jacklin gave us a thorough preview of what is to come for the rest of the night. Belting out tunes with her Fender Telecaster strapped around her, Jacklin bared her soul on stage with conviction and courage, drawing the crowd in with her hauntingly mournful tone of voice. Although at this time the people in attendance were sparse, Jacklin still received a warm and well-rounded applause from those who were touched by her performance. 

I would be lying if I said that I didn’t come into this show with certain expectations. However, these expectations were immediately thrown out of the window the moment Natalie walked onto stage. While petite in size, Natalie was a ravishing figure in her little black dress. Donning on red lips to match her sultry presentation, Natalie exhibited a wealth of emotions and knowledge on love and heartbreak. The Virginian native made Nashville her second home a couple of years ago. Nashville, being the muse for many country superstars, also became the place which imparted much wisdom to alt-country’s newest rising star, Natalie Prass. Another fun fact: Natalie noted how she once served Keith Urban whilst working in a coffee shop in Nashville. 

Country music was never her go to playlist, but somehow by being in Nashville, Natalie found inspiration from the likes of Dolly Parton and many other country stars. This in turn inspired her to pen her own version of ‘Jolene’ a.k.a. ‘Christy’. In saying that though, ‘Christy’ sounds nothing like Jolene. The melody section of the song is much more held back in comparison. Natalie allowed her soulful delivery and earnest words to showcase her story and feelings. There was an organic touch to her entire performance, nothing ever felt planned or rehearsed. Everything that came from her and her band managed to sound captivating, chilling, and tear-jerking at times, all in the most natural and effortless way possible. 

There was a fine mix of subtle elegance and quirkiness, from her performance to the way she interacted with the crowd. It was evident that she wasn’t being Natalie Prass the performer, but simply herself on stage. It felt like we had all received an open invite into her lounge, which was evident when she referred to the venue as Black Bear Lounge. People were slowly shuffling towards the stage, finding empty spaces on the ground to rest while locking their eyes and ears on Natalie’s performance. Listening to the live version of ‘Bird of Prey’ and ‘My Baby Don’t Understand Me’ felt like a dream. A beautiful dream that was created by Natalie, filled with interpretations of country, blues, and a little bit a funk. Displaying her diversity as an artist and a performer, Natalie made everyone laughed, cry, and even snuggle up as though we were under a warm fire roasting marshmallows. 

Closing the night with her rendition of The Supremes’ ‘Keep Me Hanging On’, Natalie and her band delivered a fulfilling night of fun, laughter, and heartfelt music. The entire night felt like a fleeting moment and everyone within the Black Bear Lodge made sure that they did not miss any of it. With more material come, Natalie proves to be one of alt-country’s most promising stars. It was a night I will cherish for years to come. 

- Zen Lim