When did Jonathan Boulet become a local star? Last I checked he had a couple of killer tracks on the radio and was playing some solid supports to appreciative, but not quite enthralled audiences. So walking down the Oxford Art Factory stairs a short time after doors and seeing swarms of young, enthusiastic punters buzzing around was an exciting surprise.

A bit of a task, though, for openers Kyu. Recent collaborators in Boulet’s other musical outing Parades, Kyu are a local duo who build grandiose tunes from a range of electronic and acoustic instruments such as keyboards, bells and glockenspiel. The way they weave these different elements is reminiscent of acts like Grizzly Bear and Animal Collective, but their sound has a femininity that brings it closer to Bat for Lashes or Kate Bush. Regardless of influence, they have a great collection of songs, and their set struck a great balance between variety and continuity. It struck a chord with the audience too, who responded with an enthusiasm that’s rare for an opener.

Sherlock’s Daughter followed, led by the charismatic Tanya Horo. Another Sydney group with a varied repertoire, they take influences from a range of impressive, but traditionally stoic genres and boost them with pop hooks and sugary-sweet vocals. Kraut-influenced rhythms, shoegaze guitars and Sonic Youth-style guitar dissonance form a strong basis, but the songs are taken to surprisingly effective heights by Horo, who twists the songs into endearing pop gems. Mixing dissonant elements with honeyed vocals is not at all new, but Sherlock’s Daughter brings its own subtle twists to these established ideas, creating a sound that is both exciting and effortlessly accessible.

Jonathan Boulet is playing to a packed house and he’s having the time of his life. The front of the audience is teeming with fans, and on-stage he’s leading his bandmates, a young crew of local friends, through much of his debut album. Shouts of approval greet each song, and the band responds with an enthusiasm that can only come from a great connection with their audience.

There’s an energy in the room tonight, and Boulet seems as surprised as anyone by the crowd’s dedication. Far from a rock star, he nonetheless leads them through a number of impromptu call-and-response moments throughout the set, enjoying his new-found powers with a shy, giddy excitement.

The biggest response is saved for the end, though – the opening strains to A Public Service Announcement ring out and the audience erupts. People jump around, throw their hands in the air, and sing along. Those who aren’t soon join in when Boulet points his microphone off-stage, clearly revelling in the moment. He may have constructed it alone in his home studio, but tonight it’s everybody’s song.