Given that Pokey LaFarge's profile is only just starting to grow in this part of the world, it was surprising to see that this concert was sold out. Perhaps it's down to a strong roots community with their ears to the ground, and word-of-mouth buzz from his other Australian festival and headline shows. The full room provided a celebratory and uproarious atmosphere for both acts.

Mustered Courage opened the show and had to deal with a decidedly sub-par sound mix. Vocals struggled to cut through the other instruments and the banjo sounded like it was being picked underwater. Those frustrations aside, the string-centric quartet played a rousing and enthusiastic set complete with a guest appearance by Choirboys singer Mark Gable for a pleasingly un-gimmicky bluegrass rendition of their 1987 hit Run To Paradise.

Pokey LaFarge and his five-piece band received a heroes welcome and set about befriending everyone in the room with their hybrid of western swing, jazz, folk, country and blues sounds. All of the players were masters of their instruments: clarinet, trumpet, upright bass and guitar, especially bearded and be-hatted sidekick Ryan Koenig on harmonica and various percussion.

Though LaFarge was the consummate showman, singer and player, his guitarist Adam Hoskins deserves special mention for his note perfect and effortless solos. The exuberant yet respectful crowed were treated to album highlights such as Central Time, Kentucky Mae and In The Graveyard Now plus a smattering of covers such as Bob Wills' My Window Faces The South and the 1920's drinking song Show Me The Way To Go Home. Essentially it was the band's audience interaction, virtuosity and unassuming professionalism, combined with LaFarge's charm, authentic musicality and versatile voice that made the show so enjoyable and impressive. We guarantee we'll be back to see him again soon.