A Father John Misty show is a spectacular event. It's everything. Amazing songs, unbridled humour, a singer with a voice that just doesn't quit. Passion. Energy. Did I mention the energy? Just so much energy. Tuesday night at the Sydney Opera House the 'Father' came to play. Armed with material from his highly acclaimed second album this was a show to behold. For over an hour and a half we were enthralled by the majestic machinations of Mr Josh Tillman.

Tillman is a beast on stage. Since 'becoming' Father John Misty he has unleashed his passion to strut and dance and live out every moment as if its his last. He swaggers, smiles, bellows and ultimately delights us all. It really is impossible to take your eyes off him. His band is great in support, being powerful and nuanced exactly when needs be. The songs are full of wit, heartbreak and pathos. They rock and they roll, with a touch of soul and country. Particular highlights were the swooning "I Love You, Honeybear" and the topical "Bored in the USA". Whilst closer "The Ideal Husband" brought the house down. We wanted more though and we got it. The encore was toned down for a beautiful rendition of "I Went to the Store One Day" and a tender presentation of "Everyman Needs a Companion". We also received plenty of wit on the night. References were sarcastically dropped many times to the Grammy nomination just received and we even received a 'Q and A' at the end. As said, a Father John Misty is just really everything and then more.

Set List
I Love You, Honeybear

Strange Encounter
True Affection
Only Son of the Ladiesman
When You're Smiling and Astride Me
The Night Josh Tillman Came to Our Apt.
I'm Writing a Novel
Chateau Lobby #4 (in C for Two Virgins)
Nancy From Now On
Bored in the USA
Nothing Good Ever Happens at the Goddamn Thirsty Crow
This is Sally Hatchet
Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings
Funtimes in Babylon
Holy Shit
The Ideal Husband

I Went to the Store One Day
Everyman Needs a Companion

Saturday we ventured into the Southern Highlands for the very first Fairgrounds Festival. The lineup piggybacked the Meredith Festival and it was an eclectic and interesting one. Set in the beautiful hamlet of Berry we enjoyed the setting of the Showgrounds. Ringed by trees and hills it was a great way to spend a day. There was a good vibe through out with markets, a swimming pool, old school games and a good food set up. Th only slight complaint was that the day could have done with a few more food vendors especially as they all ran out of food late in the day. Not ideal. Onto the music. After the moderate offering of Unknown Mortal Orchestra we super charged by local heroes Royal Headache whose soulful rock impressed greatly. They were followed by the veteran Americans Mercury Rev. They provided a powerful reminder of their mystical greatness. But the definite highlight was to come.

Father John Misty is a force on stage. A swaggering eruption of charisma. It borders on arrogance but he is so damn charming. And the music is great. His first two albums have rocked by world and even though this was the third time I have seen him live it was still a startling show. He owns the stage. Dancing, promenading, staring, mocking and yes even coming down to touch the audience. His voice is immaculate, rich and wonderful. A must see live.

Set List
I Love You, Honeybear
Strange Encounter
True Affection
Only Son of the Ladiesman
When You're Smiling and Astride Me
The Night Josh Tillman Came To Our Apt.
I'm Writing a Novel
Chateau Lobby #4 (in C For Two Virgins)
Bored in The USA
Nothing Good Ever Happens at the Goddamn Thirsty Crow
Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings
The Ideal Husband