David Garnham: Plenty of reasons to live

Tierney White chats to songwriter David Garnham about beards, bands and tattoos ahead of his Darwin Festival performance tonight.  

“It’s not about getting bodies through the door,

it’s about being with a bunch of people that

really appreciate and enjoy what you do.”

It’s 2pm on a typical dry season Thursday in Darwin town and I’m waiting to meet songwriter David Garnham in Raintree Park.

With the Festival on, there’s an anticipatory buzz in the air. Busy commuters pass by in the 32-degree heat. It almost feels like a Friday – just before knock-off time.

Suddenly, David comes into view. While he doesn’t know what I look like, I have no problem recognising him – largely thanks to his signature red beard.

We sit down at a nearby café, Viva La Vida. Garnham orders a long black and I go for a skinny cap.

The 29-year-old refers to himself as a songwriter, not a musician. He says that musically, he’s “a bit of a spaz”. 

When he was younger, he wanted to be a writer and started out as a poet. In his teens he “fell in love” with music. Seven years ago, he began performing.

Tierney: Who would you say are your inspirations?

Garnham:  My favourite band is You Am I. [He points to the tattoo on his left forearm showing two hands in prayer]. I’m that much of a fan that I got the same tattoo put here that Tim Rogers has on his chest.

My other inspiration is a gentleman called Charles Jenkins. He’s my favourite songwriter.  He’s actually the producer of our new album.

Tierney: What made you want to do the Darwin Festival?

Garnham: This will be my fourth year performing. Before that I was just happy to work behind the bar! It’s a world class festival and here and [performers] have such a caring audiences. 

We've got awesome weather and great people – it’s the best time of year to be in Darwin.

Tierney: Are there any special rituals you have before a show, or any ‘diva’ requests?

Garnham: (laughs) Nope! I don’t even warm up before a show. My band, The Reasons To Live, and I are pretty chilled and have our feet on the ground. We’re honestly just happy with a beer!

Tierney: You’ve achieved so much in your career, including winning NT’s Song of the Year last year. What has been the highlight?

Garnham:In all honesty, nothing beats a really good, intimate gig. It’s not about getting bodies through the door, it’s about being with a bunch of people who really appreciate and enjoy what they do.

Tierney: My last question is about your beard. There is so much love for beards these days. How do you feel about yours?

Garnham: Well, it’s come a long way. (Garnham stokes his beard lovingly). 

It’s funny as well. I used to dye my beard brown. I was ashamed of my part-ranga beard but now I embrace it. It’s kind of a lazy thing. I don’t really like shaving and it’s my low-maintenance style of living.

As we say goodbye, I thank David for meeting up with me. “Pleash,” he says. I leave Viva La Vida feeling like I’ve just caught up with an old friend.

What: 

David Garnham and The Reasons To Live

When: 

9pm, Tuesday 20^th August

Where: 

The Lighthouse

Tickets: 

Adult $32, Concession/Group (8+) $28

More info: 

davidgarnham.com.au