Touring off the back of his newly released album Secret Codes and Battleships Darren Hayes was primed to give Sydney a night they wouldn’t forget. After selling over 20 million records as the front man for global juggernauts Savage Garden and solo success some would think Daren Hayes could be afforded the luxury of slipping into a greatest hits nostalgia act. Darren Hayes must have skipped that day at Business School because this most certainly was not a man taking the easy way out for a quick payday. Tonight’s gig at the Enmore Theatre was fresh, surprising and at times moving.

It was obvious early on that it was going to be special. The mood was brewing by the time young Singer Songwriter Brendan Maclean hit the stage. Brendan showed off his eclectic collection of self-written tunes that resonated with those that had gathered early. Of particular note was the impressive poise and maturity he showed on stage. His wonderful musicianship was there for all to see as he delighted the crowd with his unique blend of Pop/Folk complete with Ukulele. Lets hope he loses none of his contagious humility, as his talent will undoubtedly see him reach the cream of the Australian scene.

After a short delay, Darren Hayes hit the Sydney stage for his first gig in town for quite some time and you could tell that both parties has missed one another. Hayes came out adorned with a neon umbrella and glitzy lighting show. I took a deep breath thinking I was going to be witness to a 2-hour cabaret show. My fears were quickly put to rest as he dished up a powerful, memorable and of course theatric performance that left fans both old and new happy. It was immediately obvious that years of touring had served him well and that at the ripe old age of 39 he is still in his prime. Immediately connecting with the fans he held them in his grasp until finally releasing them at the end of the set.

There is no questioning the impact Darren Hayes has had on the musical landscape here in Australia and as he tore through his catalogue of hits most of us where transported back in time. He opened with “Taken By The Sea” from his latest album and even though it is a relative new addition it got a huge ovation. By the time the first Savage Garden hit was played “To The Moon And Back” the show was in full swing. There was no turning back after this the set then powered on with notable mentions including “Insatiable”, “Bloodstained Heart” and “Break Me, Shake Me”. Vocally the show hit the pocket throughout. The range that Hayes hits is unmistakable.

Theatrically the show was trip in itself. Makeup laden Segway’s, LED infused canes and glow in the dark heart’s all made an appearance. At one point Hayes did a full make up and outfit change in Pantomime fashion. It was intriguing and thought provoking. To be honest at times I had to remind myself I was at a rock concert. The crafty performer knows how to mix it up and keep the audience guessing .The Jaw dropping mash version of “Billie Jean/Break Me, Shake Me” has to be seen. to be believed. Alternatively “When Will I Be Famous/Popular” later in the set also wowed the audience. It was a real treat throughout.

Sure there was a sense of cheesiness to some of the theatrics but no one cared. As expected, his new album featured prominently in the mix with great success. The exception might have been the final encore song “Siren’s Call” as it was a little obscure. That being said, it was all there from the hypnotic to the surprising; it had it all. The standing ovation was well deserved.