Daniel will take to the stage in the Ararat Hotel's Red Room this Friday. For an extra treat Candice McLeod will warm up the audience before Daniel's show.

Candice, a Queenslander now living at Halls Gap, is a regular performer at local gigs in that area. Candice admits she is a bit of a gypsy and living and working from Halls Gap have suited her life style. She has a bright and bubbly personality which comes across to the audience in her own songs. She has performed widely in Australia at numerous festivals, cafes and restaurants. She completed her first CD in 2013 - 'Whispers'.

Daniel Champagne has included Ararat in his national tour promoting his latest CD 'The Gypsy Moon - Volume II'. Daniel began playing a guitar from age 5, and writing songs at 12. He trained classically during his teenage years and performed wherever he could. At 18 he left school, turned professional and hit the road.

Daniel has been very busy since then, now aged 24, he has traversed North America, the United Kingdom, Europe, New Zealand and of course, his homeland, Australia. He has played at festivals such as Canada's Vancouver Folk and Mariposa Festival, Belgium's Labadoux and in Australia - Woodford, Falls Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival and the legendary Byron Bay Bluesfest.

Daniel has released 2 Eps, 'My Own Design' (2009) and 'Wide Eyed and Open' (2010), his first long player 'Pint of Mystery' (2011) and the 'Real Live' (2012). 'The Gypsy Moon - Volume I' was released in April 2013 followed by 'Volume II' in March 2014.

Daniel has come to the attention of music critics and journals across the country, recently Australia's Rhythms Magazine had this to say about him: 'In the short time he's been out there, Champagne has proven that he's talent you can't possibly ignore. His live shows have drawn rapturous responses from all corners, and his debut LP, Pint of Mystery, plus two EPs, have been critically acclaimed. With The Gypsy Moon though, he's gone a step further this time, it's like he's realized his own potential, his confidence is sky-high and he's truly ready to explore'.

Daniel will be playing one other show in Victoria before he commences a tour of Canada in July. Come along and have a listen he may not be back in Australia for quite a while.

Entry to the show is $20 and bookings can be made by contacting Dave Nicholson on 0409 848 960 or email: araratlive@davidsmedia.com with your details or check out the website. There is also a Facebook group 'Ararat Live'.

Ararat Live is a not-for-profit collective whose main objective is to support original music. All ticket fees go to the performers and to support future events. All Ararat Live shows are open to the general public but potential guests are encouraged to get on the mailing list.