Since coming back from his triumph at the Edinburgh Festival I’ve seen Tim do a couple of tiny gigs about town but this is the first time I’ve seen him do his complete Dark Side show since discovering him at The Melbourne Comedy Festival in April. And what a show it is! I never get tired of hearing his songs and I noticed he has tightened and improved his in-between song patter. I think its clever that he introduces his show with a song explaining himself and what to expect from the show. It helps set the audience at ease, as well as whetting the apatite with expectation.
The thing that struck me was how dark some of the songs actually were, I’d remembered the title of the show as being ironic, (he does go on about worrying that he’s considered too ‘light’) but then he sings about “Anal Sex and God” which bitterly mocks religions of all kinds and had some gay chaps whooping with delight. Also his dark, manic psycho poem and his song “What was 05 for?” that includes a joke about Van Nguyen, which he admitted may be a bit too soon. The show does contrast darkness and light. This is reflected in the title song, ‘The Dark Side’ where he used lighting and a smoke machine to fabulous comic effect.
Other songs have a sad bitter/sweet quality to them that can bring tears to your eyes (or is that just soppy old me). ‘Rock n Roll Nerd’ laments at his inability to be cool and become a rock star. He sings a heartwarming tribute to the cosiness of marriage, with a twisted sting in its tail. His final song “Its not Perfect, but its Mine” speaks of being ultimately satisfied with his lot, despite being unhappy with certain aspects, such as the leader of our country, amongst other things.
Tim is not limited to songs, he also dances, does a little mime and some beat poetry. Part of my enjoyment was being with a large packed audience who were mostly discovering him for the first time. Warming to him, then being totally wowed, till the stamping of feet for an encore. He’s a true showman and it was wonderful to see him in his element and to hear the crowd praise him on the way out.