When legendary Brisbane band Powderfinger disbanded in 2010, guitarist and songwriter Darren Middleton had no idea of the crisis of confidence that lay ahead.
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After 21 years of critical and popular success, he found himself in an emotional and musical slump.
“The catalyst was certainly leaving that identity and that comfort zone of Powderfinger,” the 42-year-old said.
“I had grand plans of taking six months off then getting back into music and producing, but I just couldn't get my shit together.”
It took 18 months for Middleton to work out what life after Powderfinger might look like.
“I hadn't really untangled those threads, and there is a need to re-establish and find out who you are again,” he said.
“I'll always be a Powderfinger member, but it's not my anchor anymore.”
Middleton took on work scoring film and TV soundtracks, producing, songwriting and even guest presenting for Channel Ten travel show Places We Go.
He also started writing his latest album, Translations, a self-confessed “heart on sleeve” record that draws heavily on his encounter with depression.
“Pretty much in every song there is a spark of hope, because that's just kind of the guy I am, I'm usually pretty upbeat,” he said.
“A lot of the songs talk about the concept that storms do pass.”
Middleton has now embarked on a national acoustic tour, with only pianist/cellist Kelly Lane from Melbourne band Skipping Girl Vinegar along for the ride.
“I wanted it to be quite stripped back and naked to a degree,” he said.
“It's really challenging but really rewarding at the same time.”
Darren Middleton will play a free show as part of his The One Thing tour at The Jubilee Hotel on Thursday April 17.
