Music news with Darren Lowe

CresFest 23

From little things, big things grow. This festival went leaps and bounds toward establishing itself as a fixture on the music calendar in its second year, demonstrating a level of professionalism, confidence and maturity which was admirable and a credit to all involved.

This year ironed out a few glitches, ticketing being more streamlined and the sheer volume and good nature of volunteers helping to run the festival to make the spread of venues feel inclusive, unified, with a strong, palpable, sense of community.

Creswick had some beautiful venues and performers were suited to the room, the audience and the acoustics. Upstairs The American hosted a lovely opening ceremony then a constant stream of solo, duos and bands. I was lucky enough to hear Greg Champion, pictured, entertain a roomful of admirers followed by Cat Canteri with her heartfelt personal tales of inner city gut-wrenching material, where you could almost hear the audience holding their breath.

Archer, as always, is mesmerizing, channelling classic US mavericks such as Hank Williams, somehow incorporating Americana seamlessly into Outback Australian yarns, where it all makes sense. Combine this with Appalachian songstress, picker and two step dancer, Martha Spencer and you have a perfect combination.

Leavers Hotel is an amazing venue, often reaching capacity early but you wouldn’t change a thing to affect the ambience, even if you can't always get in.

The Town Hall held a range of acts in a traditional concert set up. The town's community centre, primary schools, churches and halls all became functioning performance venues. There were plenty of free gigs in The Farmers Arms pub and at various outdoor venues.

Sound was impeccable at all venues with stage managers running the gigs like clockwork. The word was out with impromptu jams occurring on the street and in the pubs with a distinct Celtic flavour.

The organising committee should be commended. Arising bravely in a nervous, not quite post-Covid environment, we now have a fully-fledged, mature and inspiring local festival. Make sure you get there in '24.

Gig Guide

Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford

Friday, April 14, 6pm – Ania (piano sessions)

Saturday, April 15, 6pm – The Martini Set

Sunday, April 16, 5pm – Rosario De Marco

Thursday, April 20, 6pm – Don Morrison

Friday, April 21, 6pm – Kim and the Meme

Saturday, April 22, 8pm – Isabel Rumble

Sunday, April 23, 5pm - Katankin

Palais-Hepburn, Hepburn

Friday, April 14 – Stevie Rigby & guests

Saturday, April 15 – D’Arcy Spiller & guests

Friday, April 21 - Honeyfields & Corn Nut Creek

Friends for over 20 years, Honeyfields’ bond was forged through sitting around kitchen tables or campfires singing and playing their favourite songs and tunes. Formerly known as The Beenies, they have performed together at major venues and festivals across Australia.

Bound together through sisterhood with a spiritual connection to nature, Corn Nut Creek's Danielle Vita and Tanya Bradley are storytellers whose original songs draw upon the traditions of Appalachian music. They were finalists and awarded Jurors' Top Five in the 2020 Blues and Roots Radio International Song Competition.

Saturday, April 22 - Stewart D'Arrietta - Tom Waits for No Man

Wombat Forest Vineyard

Saturday, April 15 - Annual Locals' Day - Music by Jared Brentnall, 1pm-4pm one of a kind Be sure to book ahead for dinner, music, events & accommodation. Check for more details here: daylesfordhotel.com.au

The Daylesford Hotel is one of a kind. It’s majesty, it’s music and it offers many spaces, with over 100 year’s of history in the heart of town. A traditional style pub with all the modern delights, offering pub meals as well as a broader range for all dietary wants and needs. Wine & dine on the Sunset Balcony overlooking greater Daylesford or find a Cosy Corner and curl up next to the fire inside. Finally, after many years we are back. Open from midday everyday with lunch specials and entertainment in the evenings; including Open Mic on Mondays, Trivia on the Wednesdays & live music through to Sundays.