Search - Xavier Rudd :: To Let (Dig)

Your life is incomplete without a didgeridoo

Stephen Collins | Calgary, Alberta, Canada | 02/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"And your library is incomplete without this disc.



New fans and the seasoned alike will love this album, and for the newbies, this disc is as good a starting point as "Solace," which was my starting point.



Its tough to decide what I like more about Xavier Rudd, his shining lyrics or his impeccable musical talent. Surrounded by instruments like a pilot, he seems to have mastered them all. "I feel more comfortable when my whole body is involved in something than just, say, my hands. I feel more comfortable when my whole body and soul is lost in the music.." Its an unusual arrangement, but seems to be what works best for him. Here is a list of all the ingredients that make this dish delectible:



Weissenborn slide guitars

6 and 12 string Acoustic/ Electric guitars

Didgeridoos and Stomp Box

Harmonicas

Aztec Drum

Slit Drum

Djembe

Shakers

Slide Banjo

Ankle Bells



Salivating yet?



The songs themselves are beautifully crafted, and the one that stands out for me is the title track, "To Let." At almost 9 minutes long, it is absolutely epic, and although the lyrics are fairly simple and its mostly instrumentation that carry's the song itself, I can't help but get lost in its yirdaki (didgeridoo) interludes, and lines like:



"The sun is peaking

The sun is peering across the bay

I am walking

Sucking stale air on this fine day"



The intro, "Timber & Wood," and "Central Avenue" are pure instrumentals, and not only convey the same beauty and talent as the songs with vocals, but help create a great flow if you listen to this album from start to finish. I can only imagine what his live show is like.



At times, I can't help but compare him to Paul Simon by his voice and his style of singing. This, of course, is completely complimentary. This music is timeless, and I'd like to think that Xavier Rudd will be in the libraries of those people, 20 years from now, who have an ear for beautiful music, and the musicians creating it.



You won't regret having this album in your libary."

One of the best musicians for a decade

Rhys Buckingham | Nelson New Zealand | 07/16/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Xavier Rudd wipes me out with his simply brilliant musicianship at every level. To my mind this is his best CD and the one to go for first, though "Solace" is also excellent. Xavier seems capable of playing any instrument available, even ankle bells, and the didgeridoo rarely sounded better than in his hands.



If you like Ben Harper, to my mind one of the best musicians out there, I doubt that you will be disappointed with Xavier Rudd."

Highly recommend

Melanie | Canada | 05/27/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have seen this man perform live and if you think his cd's are good, you ain't seen nothin'! Man, can this guy stir up a crowd!



I've just discovered Xavier and he is currently my favorite artist. Everywhere I go in the car these days I'm grooving to the didgeridoo and funky blues of Xavier Rudd.



I'm also inspired by the simple holistic message in his music. He is very environmental, and peace and love oriented and gently expresses how lovely the world can be. For example:



With each gift that you share

You may heal and repair

With each choice that you make

You may help someone's day

Well I know you are strong

May your journey be long

Now I wish you the best of luck



I love this man. How could anybody not love this man.



What is incredibly impressive about this artist is that he plays his instruments simultaneously. If you haven't seen him perform, keep this in mind as you listen, and if you get a chance to see him... go!!!



I will buy everything this man produces.



Melanie"