Hannah Brewer: Support Act Review

Norwegian singer-songwriter Aurora has returned down under to share her latest album in a series of sold-out shows, featuring Scottish support Odd Luke and Sydney indie-pop performer Hannah Brewer. I splurged on the VIP package last year, knowing that Aurora’s dedicated fanbase would make for tough competition in getting that coveted barricade position and that still wasn’t enough for me to get to the frontmost row! However, I was perfectly situated to enjoy Hannah Brewer’s solo act, which was something I was looking forward to almost as much as the main event.

This is what happened during Hannah Brewer’s set at The Fortitude Music Hall on February 13th, 2025.

HANNAH BREWER

Brewer’s entrance was subtle as she took command of the keyboard and the eager audience’s attention. Although her name alone may not ring too many bells, Brewer is the singer-songerwriter behind bubbly, yet emotional, songs like Rumspringa, Headspins, and The Pirate Song that have begun to get some airtime on Triple J in the last couple of years. I’m hoping the gig opening for Aurora will give Brewer a much-needed boost to her listenership because she is a seriously talented artist. Two years after its release, Rumspringa still hasn’t left a top 3 spot in my YouTube recommendations, which my continued love of the song hasn’t helped change. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

Brewer kicked off her set with Chill Girl, a too-relatable ballad that did not leave much room for doubt about Hannah’s incredible vocal talent and songwriting abilities. Sonically beautiful, thanks to Brewer’s powerful vocals and fantastic instrumentation, her lyrics are often poetic reflections on the anxieties we harbour and the desires we want to cave in to. As a solo musician for the night, Brewer’s backing track seriously aided in keeping her music light and fun for the new listeners of the night. Fortunately, it was a good glimpse into what a headline show could be with a full band that I hope left the audience wanting more.

What the backing track did not distract from was Brewer’s multi-instrumental abilities. After a few songs, she switched gears from soulful ballads and stepped away from the keyboard to pick up a guitar instead. The party seemed to really get started and Brewer seemed to grow more comfortable with her audience as she shared the story behind upcoming release Doll Shop Souvenir and teased a great song about fishing with Bait.

I have to admit that I was disappointed that a favourite of mine, The Pirate Song, did not make an appearance. But I’m all the more excited to see it on the set list of a future Hannah Brewer concert, which I hope this tour will generate enough momentum for! With fan favourites like Head Spins and Rumspringa making a lasting impression on the audience, I hope it won’t be too long before Hannah Brewer starts to get the attention she deserves. Best of luck for this year, Hannah! We’d love to have you back in Brisbane soon!

Fave song: Rumspringa