Darren Middleton, Northcote Social Club
Its a dimly lit atmospheric Northcote Social Club where Darren Middleton picks up his Les Paul to play a intimate gig in Melbourne’s outer suburb. The stage is low bringing the singer closer to his audience.Â
Having recently released ‘ Tides’ an album slightly different from his previous releases, Middleton is back on our radars and the relaxed casual atmosphere of the venue is the perfect place to host his latest offerings. Â
Middleton is a songwriter that provokes thought with his deep meaningful lyrics, yet as he performs there is a slight boyish charm that shines through and its refreshingly to witness. There is no air of arrogance, just a truth and honesty to the performance as he switches between his Les Paul, Fender Stratocaster and Maton with ease.Â
Running through new tracks ‘ Ghosts and Memories’, and ‘ Just let me go’ he manages to surprise the audience with a beautiful rendition of ‘ The Meter’ a song he wrote about ” Footy players, eating Vegemite and the meter of time”  the violin performance from Kelly Lane is a hauntingly beautiful accompaniment.Â
Bringing out Ash Naylor to help him with the Split Enz cover of ‘ I got you’ the whole room erupts into a sing a long as everyone bounces along to the iconic track.Â
Under the blue lights of the stage Darren Middleton has put on a beautiful performance this evening, and as he leaves the stage to greet awaiting fans, a pleasant calm hangs in the air.Â
Words by Amanda Lee Starkey
Behind the lens Monique PizzicaÂ
