FRED Smith attracts a diverse group of ardent followers. There are those entranced by the many songs he has written during postings as a political adviser in Bougainville, the Solomons and Afghanistan. Then there are a group from the folk world familiar with his association with the Spooky Men’s Chorale. Yet another fan base has followed his fortunes through a 10-year professional link with the immensely talented Liz Frencham.

When this eclectic crowd of devotees packed together into the sold-out Spiegel Garden tent (irreverently described by Smith as akin to a rotisserie) one could sense a special night was in store.

In the main, we journeyed through songs from the Frencham Smith collaborative album, “Into My Room”. As one perhaps more from the war or Spooky songs corner, this was a trip well worth the taking. Besides splendid and always tasteful bass playing, the warm-smiling Liz Frencham has a mesmerising voice, at times reminiscent of Billie Holiday. Her poignant stories of “She” and “The Lonely Road” were passionate and heart rending, as was the pathos of a tired and emotional girl in “Find Me a Lover”.

Fred tugged at the heart, too, as “Take My Hand Now Lover” told, with compassion, of the incredibly difficulties facing Australian farmers.

There was plenty of fun as well. Smith’s writing is quirky and clever as he relays his interpretation of real life. We laughed about a bar in the US, tried in vain to link Canberra’s Centenary with Oklahoma, giggled about Nara, revelled in the naughty ditty “I Need a Little Renovation Too” then happily stood to participate in vocal warm ups during a “virtual interval”.

Stylistically there was jazz, blues, a touch of country, some folk and a bit of rock with a fine band – Barney Wakeford (piano), John Jones (drums) and Graeme Reynolds (trumpet) – supporting with subtle, tight and never intrusive backing.

All in all, a happy and informal concert that united the cross section of diverse fans with simple grace and charm and excellent music.