Davidson opts for off-beaten-path setting

Delaney Davidson, right, and Marlon Williams.

Never mind Auckland's flash inner-city bars, or Wellington's busy Cuba St - acclaimed country artist Delaney Davidson would rather play his shows off the beaten path.

In the wake of their award-winning album, Davidson and fellow country troubadour Marlon Williams are playing their third Masterton concert this weekend, appearing at King Street Live on Monday.

The duo, whose album Sad But True was dubbed Country Music Album of the Year by the Recording Industry Association of New Zealand, have gathered a loyal following in Wairarapa, with their two previous gigs drawing sell-out crowds and rousing audience response - including several standing ovations.

"We have had some really enjoyable evenings in the Wairarapa," said Davidson, who has done tours of the US and Europe.

"The people have been very warm and welcoming to us. Plus, for me it's nice to get over the Rimutakas and away from the city for a bit.

"I like playing gigs off the beaten track - you connect more with the people, and they appreciate you coming to play for them. It feels more real.

Davidson and Williams played their first Masterton gigs at Aratoi, firstly alongside The Warratah's frontman Barry Saunders and Wellington singer-songwriter Ebony Lamb, and then paired with the Masterton District Brass Band (MDBB) for the second show.

Playing with the MDBB was a highlight for Davidson - but he confessed he was baffled by the audience's initial reaction to the pairing of brass with country.

"A few people were shouting at the band, and telling them to p*** off and shut up," he said.

"I think they just wanted to hear the country music. The brass band were really polarising, but they were fantastic. It was inspiring to see their director wrangle a bunch of 20-odd musicians - he really held them to their work."

Delaney Davidson and Marlon Williams are playing at King Street Live on Monday, 7pm. Tickets are available from www.dashtickets.co.nz.