If you’ve been following Futuremag Music for some time you would recognise, Austen. The Brisbane based pop star has gone leaps and bounds since we started backing in 2016 with her debut single ‘Faded’. 2019 marked another major milestone for Austen as she embarked on her debut headline tour for her Passenger Seat EP. We caught Austen at Oxford Art Factory’s Gallery Bar on Friday the 6th of December, supported by Oh My My and Chymes.

Sydney locals, Oh My My kicked off the night with impressive blend of electro pop and indie rock. This amalgamation of diverse sonic structures generated a captivating aura around the band, enrapturing the audience. Oh My My achieved something that few openers can achieve, unified movement from the room.

NSW Central Coast’s Chymes followed suit with her pristine pop. It’s clear why Jungkook from mega boyband BTS is a fan, with the angelic act ascending to new heights with the endearing set. Performing her lush hits ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Dreaming’, Chymes enchanted punters. Closing the set with her brand new single ‘Sleepless’, Chymes set the stage for Austen’s superb soundscape.

Alike our close following of Austen’s records, we’ve also been devoted fans of her live shows, attending her support slots with The Kite String Tangle, Nyxen, Paces, plus others. We’ve also seen the local legend jump up with Kuren at Splendour In The Grass in 2017 and smash out a set at Big Pineapple earlier this year. Each of these appearances (among others) have built Austen into the audacious act that she is today. Born for the stage, Austen nailed her debut headline slot at Oxford Art Factory. The Passenger Seat EP tour is undoubtedly one of the best renditions of Austen’s live show. Joined but a guitarist and drummer, Austen invited fans on a euphonic journey through her catalogue. Old faithfuls, ‘Faded’ and ‘Darkside’ delighted versed fans, while recent releases ‘Money’, ’Anthem’ among others amplified amidst the confines of Gallery Bar’s walls. With fruitful verve, Austen teased her future direction with an unreleased single. These succulent soundscapes were further bolstered by a luminous lighting display. Every element of the set combined seamlessly, culminating into a highlight of 2019.

Austen is at the top of her game, be sure to check her out next time she’s in your vicinity.

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