A Summery CMAT Performance

On a scorching Tuesday night, the forum became home to one of Ireland’s most exciting country-rock acts, CMAT. Despite the 45 degree heat outside Melbourne fans came alive to see the singer. 

After 3 albums and 2 tours down under it was bound to be a great night. But CMAT defied all expectations to put on one of the most energetic shows I have ever seen. The forum has become synonymous with housing some of the most interesting acts, and CMAT will surely go down in history alongside the other many great performances inside the Melbourne venue. 

The night began with a energy razing performance by Australia’s own Holiday Sidewinder. Putting up a fun filled pop performance reminiscent of Addison Rae and Britney Spears. A great to start to a great show.

From choreography to vocals CMAT’s show is nothing short of compelling. Opening with her song “Janis Joplining” off her 2025 album Eurocountry the performer and her self proclaimed “very sexy band” shocked audiences with their energy from the very beginning. Appearing in the crowd instead of on the forum’s stage to open the show, the crowd bubbled with excitement at the performer. 

Her 90 minute set encapsulated the scope of her artistry as a musician. Bringing together difficult subject matter from her own life and the history of Ireland she crafts many beautifully tragic songs that translate perfectly into live performance.

But CMAT refuses to stick to a single emotion combining a multitude of feelings within her sound to create a true emotional roller coaster for listeners. The Forum audience responded in pure adoration. There was not a moment during the evening where the crowd was silent. Singing along to every lyric and cheering between every song. 

With simple staging the show relied on the joy which herself and the band could provide. Luckily they were able to do just that. Moments of choreographed line dance together showed their love for the music they played. Between funny quips between band and audience, CMAT’s “very sexy band” elevated the talents of their lead. 

During “Where are your kids tonight?” keys player Colm Conlan joined CMAT on the mic in a beautiful duet. Their voices together created a harmony that made the sadness of the song even greater. 

The encore encapsulated the rest of the show well, the band renentered the stage to “Billy Byrne from Ballybrack, the leader of the pigeon convoy.” The sounds of oceans beneath the echoing voice of Billy Byrne completely shifted the tone of the show. Following with the song “Eurocountry” CMAT took on the heavy task of depicting the 2000s Irish financial crisis through song. The sombre tone showcased her vocal range and storytelling ability. 

Such a memorable show had to be finished with a stand out song. “Stay for something” was just that, accompanied by a group dance of the Dunboyne two step, CMAT brought together the crowd as a community who were proud to share a moment as fans.