Fergus Brown isn't the kind of singer-songwriter whose music immediately grabs you. That's certainly not to say it's dull, but more that there is an air of subtlety to it – it's music that settles in and makes itself at home without you even noticing. It's pleasant and easy to warm to, making it the perfect start to the evening.

The humble Brown took each round of applause with little more than a smirk, choosing instead to focus on the songs themselves. His songs – charming little numbers with equal footing in alt-country and quirky indie pop - were lifted predominantly from his cleverly-titled debut album, Burgers Frown; as well as a cover of The Magnetic Fields' “The Book of Love” being thrown in for good measure. “A lot of people cover this one,” admitted Brown, “but it's because it's such a great song!” Touche.

Also of note were the musicians helping to expand the sound beyond Brown's voice and electric guitar, including a second guitarist and keyboardist/percussionist/vocalist extraordinaire Holly Austin; the latter of which certainly gave the songs a cuter, quirkier side. Austin whistled, trumpeted, thudded and even squeaked her way through the set using a variety of loops, percussion and even a plastic dog toy in the shape of a hamburger. Sweetness all round, really.

Returning to Sydney for the first time in three years ahead of their Playground Weekender appearance, Tunng were in remarkably high spirits by the time they hit the stage; making it their mission to bring everyone up to their same level. It worked. Within minutes, the sextet had their audience smiling as broadly as their lips would allow, escaping to their blissful world of futuristic gypsy-folk and not wanting to return. As a live prospect, Tunng are incredible to watch - if only for how busy the stage is. The band is separated into two rows, three apiece. The front row provides the vocals, harmonies and impressive guitar playing; while the back provides an array of buzzes and percussion. Of particular interest is Martin Smith, who continues to keep a wash of percussive noise consistent throughout the songs. He's got shakers, bongos, chimes, loop pedals...hell, at one point, he's playing a set of jangling car keys with his bare feet. Now that's talent – what's not to love about that?

The band make the kind of music that is notably hard to place. One minute, they'll be whispering harmonies and swaying from side-to-side like an old wooden boat. The next, you'll see bandleader Mike Lindsay throwing on giant novelty sunglasses and playing the most hilariously OTT guitar solo you may ever see from a band of their ilk. Whatever spicy variety is thrown in, however, Tunng thrive in the live environment and bring a new lease on life to their music.

Finishing with single “Bullets,” there is not a pair of feet left in the venue that isn't dancing like an unwashed hippy. Really, that's all that Tunng can ask for out of their live performances – a room full of love, joy and dancing. They've got so much positive energy to give through their music, it seems only fair that we in Sydney get a piece of that action. Here's hoping it doesn't take another three years to get them back.