Comedy rock is a difficult genre to deal with. Some artists can pull it off and mix music and comedy brilliantly; some others just don’t quite get there. It’s fairly safe to say that The Bedroom Philosopher aka Justin Heazlewood gets there. He’s made it into the Hottest 100 on at least one occasion and latest single Northcote (So Hungover) could quite easily be another contender), and there’s buzz galore about his uniquely offbeat folk music world. A packed Rocket Room spent some time in his world on Friday night, and much like the 86 Tram his new album is about, it was quite a ride.

Opening for the evening were Simone And Girlfunkel, whose set was a wonderful treat of folk pop and femininity. Their songs about romance, heartache and Cliff Richard very sweetly entranced the Rocket Room and by the time their set was over the whole audience were eating out of the palms of their hands. The beautiful harmonies of Gabrielle Lammers and Bridget Turner were especially noteworthy, and the accompaniment of clarinet and melodica from Erin Williams added unique elements to Simone and Girlfunkel’s sound also.

Next stop was dullsville, and the definite low point of the evening. Gilroy and The Cold Shoulders were, perhaps unfortunately, nothing but a bog standard cliché pub rock band. The audience seemed to enjoy them, but otherwise there was nothing to report. On an otherwise brilliant lineup, they were a sore spot.

Stereoflower arrived soon afterwards, and settled the score once again. One of Perth’s more important and bodacious bands right now, they began their set with local hit Cocaine Bebop and didn’t let up until they departed for the night. To put it simply, Stereoflower delivered the goods. Frontman and multi-instrumentalist Alexander Peter Pander might be a little guy, but his performance was powerful and the man’s a natural born musician. Rufus Rhino Marmaduke played guitar in a way that suited his name, awesomely. Stereoflower meant business on Friday night, and it has to be said that for once, all the fuss is worthy.

Arriving in a rather splendid jacket, the Bedroom Philosopher welcomed us into his zany world, where he was apparently having a music sale of epic proportions. All styles, instruments and sounds had to go as the Bedroom Philosopher had simply gone as crazy as Syd Barrett. Jokes and melodies were flying, and it was the perfect introduction to what would be an all over the shop show. Performing the majority of his latest concept album, Songs From The 86 Tram, those favouring the earlier material may have been disappointed. Along with some sound problems and a few obnoxious buffoons attempting to ruin the evening, the Bedroom Philosopher and his mighty Awkwardstra had the potential to sink underneath so much unfortunate tidings. Luckily, they overcame every one of these obstacles and put on a very entertaining show instead.

Even if it was sometimes difficult to understand him, it goes without saying that Heazlewood was the star of the night. The Tasmanian born comedian was all quick-wits and spontaneity, and often improvised when the mood suited him. He battled hecklers with ease as the Rocket Room crowd provided plenty of opportunities for comedic fodder.

Even if Heazlewood was the obvious star, there were times when it was difficult not to be transfixed by the Awkwardstra too. The quartet not only fleshed out Heazlewood’s brilliant songs, but were hugely entertaining and talented musicians in their own right. This was especially notable when the group performed Song to Nod Off to, an unusual (for a comedy show) but melodious instrumental number. Elsewhere, New Media and the spectacular rendition of indie tribute/ satire Northcote brought back the laughs. The show finished with a hysterical but touching tribute to long gone ABC children’s programs. It might have been more appropriate to see the Bedroom Philosopher perform in a small theatre, but this was definitely a rock gig even if there were many laughs to be had. The Bedroom Philosopher might be a funny guy, but he’s an accomplished songsmith too. It’ll be exciting to see where his tram takes him next.