Xavier Rudd Charms With “High Times”

Xavier Rudd turns the romance all the way up to 11 with his new single “High Times.” It’s a tender acoustic guitar ballad which celebrates the beauty of long-term love.

“I’m stoked to release this song for summer,” Xavier enthused. “No matter what’s going on in our lives we can be thankful for the natural beauty that surrounds us and the freedom to take a breath in those spaces when we can find a little time. The high times.” 

After recently touring around Europe, Xavier is back on home soil. Make sure you catch him at one of his local shows before he jets off again.
6 January 2024 – Ocean Sounds Festival, Moonahmia/Churchill Island
1 March 2024 – Fremantle Prison, Walyalup/Fremantle
2 March 2024 – SummerSalt @ Castelli Estate, Koorabup/Denmark
3 March 2024 – SummerSalt @ Castelli Estate, Koorabup/Denmark

Photo credit: Nathan Hughes

Sunset Sounds Announce Amazing Bill for Hunter Valley and Mornington Shows

With all of New South Wales either under stay-at-home orders or facing other restrictions and Victoria still smarting from countless lockdowns, I think we could all do with something to look forward to. Thank god for the team, from Sunset Sounds who promise to bring great music to outdoor venues in both states this summer.

The line-up is stacked with Kasey Chambers, Pete Murray, Xavier Rudd, Ben Lee, and Josh Pyke all on the bill. Expect laidback vibes and a whole lot of fun, with music scheduled from the afternoon through the evening.

“I’m stoked to join the lineup for Sunset Sounds festival on Wonnarua Country (Hunter Valley) and to share some new music on stage. It’s an exciting time for people, a time to reset, a time for gratitude, a time to remember how lucky we are that we can celebrate life, love, music etc so freely in this magical country that we get to call home. And it’s been a very long time since I’ve been to the Mornington Peninsula and I’m stoked to be traveling there for Sunset Sounds festival. This is gonna be special day on magical Bunurong country, let’s light it up!! Can’t wait!” said Xavier Rudd.

Sunset Sounds hits Roche Estate in the Hunter Valley on November 20 before travelling to Hastings Foreshore Reserve in the Mornington Peninsula on November 28. Tickets for both shows are available now through Ticketek. These will be COVID-safe, over 18s shows. If organisers need to postpone, all ticket holders can transfer their tickets to the new date or claim a full refund.

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Xavier Rudd Drops New Single Ahead of Album Tour

Have you got your tickets for Xavier Rudd’s upcoming tour yet? If not, his new single “Honeymoon Bay” might just give you the push you need. It’s the sort of rollicking folk song made for road trips that Xavier delivers so well.

“’Honeymoon Bay’ reminds me of the magic of our earth,” he explained. “I began writing it deep In the Kimberly northwest Australia whilst viewing ancient rock art and then wrapped it up filming the clip surfing perfect waves while immersed in the beautiful culture of Fiji. Pure magic!”

What a life, right? I was only just in the South Pacific, but the film clip has me itching to return.

Xavier Rudd kicks off his Storm Boy album tour next month.

2 August 2018 – UC Refectory, Canberra
3 August 2018 – Uni Hall, Wollongong
4 August 2018 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
5 August 2018 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
10 August 2018 – Night Quarter, Gold Coast
11 August 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
12 August 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
17 August 2018 – Odeon Theatre, Hobart
18 August 2018 – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
24 August 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
25 August 2018 – Costa Hall, Geelong
27 August 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne
23 November 2018 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
24 November 2018 – 3 Oceans Winery, Margaret River

“Storm Boy” – Xavier Rudd

Now with his ninth album under his belt, Xavier Rudd should be considered a veteran of the Aussie music scene. You might assume after releasing so much music, he might be lacking inspiration or struggling to find vital things to say. Storm Boy proves neither is true. Far from showing signs of fatigue, he might be making his best music yet. The press release notes that he’s found love, so perhaps that’s inspired him. Whatever the reason, Storm Boy is a joy to listen to.

It starts so strong with the current single “Walk Away,” a stirring anthem that tugs at the heart string. The next track “Keep it Simple” switches gears. It has such powerful lyrics about unity, with a cool electric reggae vibe. The album likes to keep us guessing like that, never keeping us in the same place for too long.

The delicate title track might be my favourite, with its life lessons and references to the famous Colin Thiele novel. While he’s more than capable of doing a big electric epic, I think Xavier is strongest he pares things back in songs like this, “Honeymoon Bay” and “Best That I Can.” However, the bigger numbers add some balance.

This is an album not just of big songs but also songs of big importance. “Gather the Hands” is such a moving call to arms, a track which addresses our relationships with our indigenous brothers and sisters and how we move forward together. “True to Yourself” is another insightful masterstroke, a tender folky ballad with a heart of gold. The second verse about a homeless man really resonated with me.

“True Love” might be the most personal song on the album, a reflection on that love the press release touched on. It manages to be both epic and intimate at the same time. Musically there’s so much going on, an orchestra with everything from violins to sitars coming together. But its lyrics are so personal, and they keep the song centred.

After such a powerhouse song, it’s only fitting that Xavier goes back to the kind of small, delicate music he’s famous for with the album’s final track. “Times Like These” has such powerful lyrics about what is true in this world, so it’s only fitting that they take centre stage. It’s a beautiful song, and the perfect final track for what is such a beautiful album.

I’ve listened to Storm Boy at least 10 times now but I keep finding new things to appreciate about it. It’s one of those special releases that only grows richer over time. Start listening now so you’re all across is when Xavier tours the country later this year.

2 August 2018 – UC Refectory, Canberra
3 August 2018 – Uni Hall, Wollongong
4 August 2018 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
5 August 2018 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
10 August 2018 – Night Quarter, Gold Coast
11 August 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
12 August 2018 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
17 August 2018 – Odeon Theatre, Hobart
18 August 2018 – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
24 August 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
25 August 2018 – Costa Hall, Geelong
27 August 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne
23 November 2018 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
24 November 2018 – 3 Oceans Winery, Margaret River

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Xavier Rudd Drops New Single Ahead of Aussie Tour

Xavier Rudd is one of those musicians who can seemingly do no wrong. He releases a single or album, and you can probably feel confident you’re going to dig it. Such is the case with his latest effort “Walk Away,” the first track lifted from his forthcoming new album Storm Boy. It’s a got a little more intensity than a lot of Xavier’s material, more power and less hippie vibes, but I’m embracing the new direction.

Storm Boy isn’t released until later this year, but you can bet fans will hear more tracks from it when Xavier plays shows in capital cities around the country next month. It’s the first time in a decade he’s played such small intimate venues, so fans are in for a real treat. Tickets are on sale now for the following shows.

12 April 2018 – Triffid, Brisbane
13 April 2018 – Factory Theatre, Sydney
14 April 2018 – Thornbury Theatre, Melbourne
15 April 2018 – Reverb Festival, Perth

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Xavier Rudd Live Album On the Way

Xavier Rudd is set to release his brand new concert album Live in the Netherlands, which features the entire set from Xavier’s show in Utrecht last year, the last night of his 28-date sold-out European tour.

I received a stream of a few songs from the album and fans are in for a real treat. These live recordings really capture that special bond Xavier develops with his audience and the chemistry between him and his band, featuring Charles Wall and Ant Aggs.

“The energy at those European shows was huge and there was a really strong thread of positive intention running through the communities,” Xavier said in a press release. “Aussie shows for us are fairly rare these days, so I’m really excited to share this live album and the European vibes with the homeland. We captured a pretty special one!”

Live in the Netherlands will be released on April 21 as a digital download, a double CD, and a limited edition 180g triple vinyl LP produced in three colours. Vinyl fans, you’re going to want to pre-order to get your hands on that limited edition album!

Image used with permission from Jones PR

Missy Higgins Enjoys Second Week in Top Spot

Missy Higgins has maintained her stranglehold on the ARIA Charts. Her new album The Ol’ Razzle Dazle sits at the top of the albums charts for the second week.

Missy’s managed to fend off stiff competition from fellow Aussie Xavier Rudd. His new album Spirit Bird has nevertheless enjoyed an impressive number two debut.

Keith Urban’s greatest hits album The Story So Far is still doing a roaring trade, which has resulted in a number four finish. While he’ll be off our TV screens once The Voice winds down, yesterday’s tour announcement should ensure it continues to sell.

Speaking of The Voice, Karise Eden showed she’s a real contender for the title with her version of “Hallelujah” sitting at number two. That’s the best chart position we’ve seen of any of The Voice hopefuls; no wonder she’s the odds on favourite to clinch the competition.

Click below to see all the ARIA chart action.
Continue reading “Missy Higgins Enjoys Second Week in Top Spot”

New Song Obsession: “Time to Smile” by Xavier Rudd

There’s something special about finding a song which just makes you feel good. I caught Xavier Rudd’s latest tune “Time to Smile” for the first time on Video Hits a couple of weeks back, and I haven’t been able to get it out of my head since. That’s a very good thing, as it’s one of those tracks which actually makes you break out in a wide grin. I love the way Xavier’s earthy blues sound merges with the African grooves of bassist Tio Moloantoa and percussionist Andile Nqubezelo. It feels like a modern-day “Graceland.” I hope it brightens up your Sunday!

Xavier Rudd Receives Ocean Conservation Award

Australian blues and roots artist Xavier Rudd is the recipient of this year’s Rock the Boat Award. The title is awarded to a musician who supports the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in their efforts to defend and protect marine wildlife.

Xavier has been an ardent supporter of the cause for years. He has flown the sea Shepherd Jolly Roger flag on stage to raise awareness, and encouraged fans to support the cause. In his most recent North American tour, he partnered with Sea Shepherd to place outreach tables at each location around the country. The song “Better People” from his album White Moth acknowledges the group’s work. Its music video also utilises Sea Shepherd footage.

The award was first presented to the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2007. Xavier is the second recipient of the award.

Image source: Miho @ Wikimedia Commons

Xavier Rudd Releases "Dark" New Album

Gee that Xavier Rudd is a busy boy isn’t he? He’s been touring virtually nonstop for years, yet somehow he’s managed to release four studio albums since 2002 and a swag of live discs. And soon he’ll add album number five to the list: Dark Shades of Blue.

The album, which is scheduled for an August 19 release, promises to have more of a rock flavour than his previous discs. With Joe Barresi (Tool, Queens of the Stone Age) behind the mixing desk, it sounds like he’s on the right track.

Somewhere in there Xavier’s also found time to pen the score for the upcoming Matthew McConaughey film Surfer Dude. Wow!

Australia will get to see the hardest working man in the industry when he showcases Dark Shades of Blue later this year. If you’ve never caught this multi-instrumental genius live before, I urge you to check out one of the following shows. You will not be disappointed!

28 October – The Hifi, Melbourne
3 November – Canberra Uni Refectory
4 November – Waves Nightclub, Wollongong
6 November – The Metro Theatre, Sydney
9 November – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
11 November – Coffs Ex-Serviceman’s Club, Coffs Harbour
12 November – Ballina RSL
14 November – The Events Centre, Caloundra
15 November – The Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane
18 November – The Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton
21 November – Townsville Civic Theatre
22 November – Kuranda Amphitheatre
27 November – Belvoir Amphitheatre, Perth
28 November – Old Broadwater Farm, Busselton
30 November – Elder Park, Adelaide

Image source: f2g2 @ Flickr