Waking Ugly

Acoustic/Pop/Rock Duo

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Waking Ugly is the pop/rock outfit that can provide a range of entertainment, from subtle background cover songs to an outstanding original showcase.

Originally from Melbourne, Darren Pace and Lydia Gardner are true professionals, having played their own songs and/or countless cover songs at all kinds of venues and events over many years.

Gardner’s vocals, described as “sugar-sweet but with enough strength to carry a bus load of school children” (Beat Magazine, 2010) and guitarist Pace’s “keen ear for a hook” (Fireworks Magazine, 2014) have resulted in comparisons to artists such as P!nk, Roxette, Blondie, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift.

The dynamic duo have played at many notable live music venues in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns, where they now reside.

Throughout their career, Darren and Lydia have won multiple international awards for their original music, including several Indie Music Channel awards, Music Scene Investigation's 'Artist of the Year' award, and 'Best Pop/Rock EP' in the Akademia awards. They have also achieved semi-finalist or runner-up status in the prestigious Song of the Year competition for the past 4 years.