Live Review: Guy Pearce & Darren Middleton, Krista Polvere, Greg Atkinson

Greg Atkinson’s subdued demeanor flowed through his short set which featured songs from the different bands he has been in over the years. His vocal glided above each with just enough effect to give them some very measured energy.

Krista Polvere also used her voice to carry her songs as it rose and fell through her mix of country with a touch of bluegrass. It was particularly effective in purveying the emotion of some very personal lyrics in The Ruse.

Actor/occasional musician Guy Pearce and ex-Powderfinger guitarist Darren Middleton have had a mutual respect and friendship for several years. With Pearce taking time to focus on his music following his well received debut album Broken Bones it was, to them anyway, inevitable that they would get together at some point. And this was it. With a backing band the pair played through a selection of each other’s material, alternating each song. As the casualness of the occasion was reflected in the music it often felt as if we had all gate-crashed the two mates just having a bit of fun. So whilst Pearce’s songs are quite intense on record they loosened up somewhat as a result. Storm was a lot funkier and a highlight as it resonated around the theatre. Middleton’s efforts already have a rockier bias and that was heightened in the relaxed jamming like environment as his songs relished the freedom, with his impressive guitar playing utilised to full effect.

Middleton inevitably seemed more relaxed on stage while singing, though Pearce showed confidence to throw out some amusing quips between songs. They may have closed with the Powderfinger classic The Metre but both artists did plenty to show they have some quality songs of their own.