Darren Smith and Clinton Hoy, hailing from Orange and Dubbo respectively, both produced an hour's worth of heartfelt, evocative originals effectively displaying their respective gifts for songwriting, and their own unique journeys as musicians.

Smith played a host of material from his first full-length album, Brave, as well as some deeper cuts from his high school projects, and his Keith Urban-meets-Jerry Cantrell croon impressed many in attendance, especially his paramedic mates.

The event then gave way for Hoy to enter the fore, producing a stripped-back, Springsteen-esque set comprising work from his latest EP, Bones, Vol. II, as well as his 2019 full-length record, Pieces of Different Puzzles, providing plenty of 'little kicks' for the crowd.

Having faced such an uncertain period with live music over the past few months as a result of lockdown, Smith said it was an absolute joy to be playing for an audience again.

"To play in such an iconic venue such as Little Alberts here at The Victoria Bathurst is a dream come true for me," he said.

"This is such a unique opportunity for original musicians to share their creations with unfamiliar audiences, so I'm really thankful for the opportunity."

Hoy agreed, noting the importance of programs such as Live and Kicking in expanding the capabilities of the Central West music scene.

"I was worried it would take a while to get back into it but the crowd was so welcoming and supportive, it was just a phenomenal experience," he said.

"I love playing with Darren too - he has such heart in the stories he puts in his songs. Knowing that you've got someone of his calibre sharing the bill comes with some pressure to bring your best stuff but it's also reassuring knowing that you're surrounded by quality songwriters.

"The day couldn't have happened without the support of Arts OutWest and Patrick Coomey, he's been a massive supporter of mine and I honestly can't say enough good things about what he does for music in the Central West."

Live and Kicking continues at The Victoria this Sunday from 2pm with a double bill primed to engage younger music fans, with multi-instrumentalist Jazzy Gold and emotive songwriter Ben Rudgley to take the stage.

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