Didirri Peters, who performs under the name Didirri, is in the midst of a national tour supporting Lane and recently appeared on a tribute album celebrating the music of The Monkees.

Put together as a unique promo for The Monkees’ upcoming Australian tour, the tribute album see Peters’ bold reworking of Randy Scouse Git sit alongside the likes of hot Melbourne indie bands such as The Cactus Channel, Woodlock, Tinpan Orange, My Dynamite, and Jordie Lane & The Sleepers.

While his version might have the approval of the US pop group, it’s attracted “great compliments and support, as well as some cutting insults and the worst reviews I’ve ever gotten”.

“I hadn't thought about it but when you do a cover of a classic, you have to be prepared for the backlash,” Peters said.

“You’re in a dead zone – if you do it exactly the same, people say ‘why bother?’ and if you do something left of centre, people who love the original give you harsh comments. But the majority of people have loved it.”

Peters is not bothered by the non-appreciative Monkees fans, but it’s unlikely the young folk singer is used to bad reviews. His debut EP Live On Swanston (which was indeed recorded live on Swanston Street one spring evening) and recent single Fall drew a great response, as have his live shows.

In recent weeks, he’s been crisscrossing the country supporting Lane – someone Peters readily admits to idolising.

“Anyone who knows me knows I’ve been obsessed with Jordie Lane for a while,” Peters said.

“People say don’t meet your idols because usually they’re not all they’re cracked up to be, but Jordie’s a diamond in the rough. He’s been so accommodating. I’m singing backing on most of his songs now.”

Peters’ star is only going to shine brighter. When he gets off Lane’s national tour, he starts a residency at popular Collingwood venue The Gasometer and is on the bill for the Woodford Folk Festival.

A new EP is due out early next year, which will likely see him return to Warrnambool for a launch show.