Fred Smith and band perform a survey in song of the experiences of Australians at war beginning with the iconic works of Lawson, Bogle, Walker and Schumann, leading through to his own firsthand song-stories from the valleys of Uruzgan Province.

This performance offers a gritty and personal account of the on-the-ground realities faced by our soldiers in offshore conflicts. Framed by a stunning collection of projected photos and some cheeky Aussie humour, the songs are set in historical context, honouring the sacrifices made while suggesting some timely questions about the costs and benefits of our “alliance wars”.

“An exceptional songwriter and certainly the equal of Bogle, Walker and Schumann… a cycle of songs that are raw, remarkably honest and suitably ambivalent about the nature of war.” – Bruce Elder, Sydney Morning Herald

“Finely observed snapshots of a harsh, sad and funny reality…balancing drama and humour…towering artistic achievement” – John Shand, SMH