Reviewed on Saturday March 21
Like a global musical circus, nine musicians from many walks of life took to the stage at the Metro Theatre. Their smiles were big, their energy undeniable. A top-hat-wearing, barefooted Xavier Rudd was front and centre. This was Xavier Rudd & The United Nations.
Coinciding with the release of Nanna, Rudd’s eighth studio album, his current tour sees Rudd appearing like never before. Usually an epic one-man band of didgeridoo, percussion, bass and vocals, Rudd has assumed the role of frontman to a collective of amazing musicians. Bringing together the sounds and diverse cultural influences of indigenous Australia, South Africa, Samoa, Germany and Papua New Guinea, the band members – each accomplished musicians in their own right – combined for one incredibly powerful performance.
Prior to the full band taking over the stage, Byron Bay’s Yeshe and member of The United Nations warmed the crowd up with his soulful songs, playing traditional instruments from his travels through Zimbabwe and Cuba.
All the favorites of Rudd’s extensive musical history arrived during the headline set, including ‘Follow The Sun’, ‘Come People’, ‘The Mother’ and ‘Up In Flames’, as well as reggae covers of Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Time After Time’ and The Beatles’ ‘Come Together’. The show switched seamlessly between upbeat riffs that had the crowd stomping to blues and roots grooves and mellow harmonies. An epic solo from South African bassist Tio Moloantoa and equally incredible drum solo from Bobby Alu cemented the impact of the sheer talent that was onstage.
Not forgetting his roots, Rudd didn’t leave without breaking down on the didge more than once and demonstrating his incredible musical multitasking skills by playing harmonica, percussion and vocals simultaneously, pushing the crowd to go wild during ‘Come Let Go’.
As always, Rudd delivered a truly powerful and beautiful performance and a celebration of music and people alike.
