crowd was rocking
by stargazer33 on 2009-07-24Queen Elizabeth Theatre - TorontoGreat show! HIgh energy and fab music! Xavier is as unique as he is soulful!
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Since the very beginning, Xavier Rudd's ability to connect with people has been his most powerful gift. The more he has toured the world, the more hearts he has touched and the more of the world he has put back into his music. Now, fronting a band aptly named The United Nations, Xavier Rudd has assembled a lineup of musicians from around the world as a one-people musical force. Making their debut in 2015, Xavier Rudd And The United Nations finds the iconic Australian solo artist in full band mode for the first time in a long and successful career, and introduces new album Nanna to Xavier's diverse and acclaimed discography...
Enthralling audiences with his ability to wield so many instruments at once, Xavier's 2002 debut album, To Let, introduced a sound that was a mix of guitars, yidakis (didgeridoos), stomp box and percussion, blues harp and vocals. Something distinctly new, yet tied back through time to the spirit of our ancestors. With a sound established, Xavier's 2004 sophomore album, Solace, was testament to the power of his songwriting abilities. Solace debuted in the top 20 of the ARIA charts and was met as an instant classic; going platinum and earning Xavier two ARIA nominations, with three of its songs – Let Me Be, Shelter and Solace – voted into triple j's Hottest 100.
Only a year later, Xavier was receiving his third ARIA nomination, this time for third album Food In The Belly. Celebrated for Xavier's abilities to effortlessly weave genres together - from the reggae sway of The Mother, to the irresistible tribal jam of Manã - Food In The Belly impacted strongly in Australia and Europe, landing Xavier on the Dutch album charts for the first time. Xavier's gold-selling follow-up, White Moth, continued on this path of international success. Released in 2007 on Epitaph sister label ANTI-, White Moth reached #30 on the US Billboard charts and earned Xavier another ARIA nomination back home.
Nudging ahead of White Moth one spot to peak the ARIA charts at #5, 2008's Dark Shades Of Blue was Xavier's biggest musical departure, yet resulted in massive fan and critical acclaim. Gritty, dark and introspective, the album connected deeply with fans, and reintroduced Xavier as formidable lap steel player. 2010's Koonyum Sun - recorded as trio Xavier Rudd And Izintaba - was a return to lighter shades. Featuring a new sound courtesy of a collaboration with bassist Tio Moloantoa and percussionist Andile Nqubezelo - yet abundant in the blues'n'roots charm of his earliest work - Koonyum Sun brought Xavier Rudd full circle.
Debuting at #2 on the ARIA charts, Xavier's 2012 album Spirit Bird was the triumphant pinnacle of of his entire solo career – capturing the most beautiful aspects of his voice, his songs and his spirit. Led by the wonderfully delicate Follow The Sun, Spirit Bird saw Xavier Rudd yet again tour the world, bringing together old fans and new, regardless of their culture or country of origin. Now, this ability to connect is at the heart of Xavier Rudd And The United Nations – a band with a strong message of all people coming together around the globe to return to spirit, respect the ancient ways and protect the Earth and the very essence of creation.
Mixed by Errol Brown at Tuff Gong Studios, Nanna is Xavier's ninth studio album, but his first with Xavier Rudd And The United Nations... finding one of the great solo artists of our time fronting a full band with impeccable results. Once again diving into new musical waters while still holding true to the music in his heart, Xavier Rudd has added another remarkable milestone to his already epic journey, solidifying his place as one of Australia's greatest artists, activists and spirits.
Great show! HIgh energy and fab music! Xavier is as unique as he is soulful!
Xavier Rudd has a way with the audience. He gives out such peaceful and friendly vibes. I would go see him again and again!
He is one of the most wonderful performers I've ever seen. His music really comes to life when you see him live. It was an amazing show, I only wish I would have bought tickets for both nights of his concert!
What an amazing show! Xavier is an incredible artist! I would see him again whenever I can.
The queen Elizabeth theatre is awesome, the acoustics are unbelievable. Xavier kept the crowd involved the entire show, let us dance on stage, played an awesome encore and he himself, stood on his head!
The 1st problem was getting parked - there was a football game on at the same time so spaces were in short supply. Plus the parking lot was badly organized so you end up driving round try to find a spot, including having to reverse out because someone had blocked off the end of the aisle. The 2nd problem was the supporting act never showed up, which we didn't find out about until 15 minutes after it should have started, so we had and hour waiting. Didn't want to spend it drinking beer as I was driving, plus $5 a bottle is a rip off. Apart from that Xavier Rudd and the band were brilliant, and the atmosphere was great, so it was worth the hassle. The theater itself is a good venue - small enough for everyone to be reasonably close. . So the moral is - get the go train and be late.
The Xavier Rudd concert was amazing! the energy in the room was fantastic and of course, he is SOO good live! my only complaint is that, while the venue is very nice, I would have rather seen this show at an outdoor amplitheatre, or at least a place where beverages are allowed at the seats :)
The Queen Elizabeth theatre is a great little venue. Doesn't look like a bad seat in the house. As for Xavier Rudd I have never seen a show quite like his, his showmanship and musical abilities and natural talent are just beaming from this dude, who asks "how ya feelin?" and just seems to feed off the great energy and vibes from the crowd. Before he even started playing his 2nd song crowd was already at its feet and never saw a seat after that Xavier gave them no reason to sit down, albeit playing some heavy slide jams, didgeridoo jams or dancing around on stage, followed by about 20 audience members who joined him dancing on stage. His band and him just mesh so well they are no slouch's they can really play well that's an understatement. If the opportunity arises to see the Rudd don't pass it up. You surely will regret it.
His concert was uplifting and I loved seeing his energy now that he has a band to support his musical instrument compilation. It seemed to allow him time to relax, dance, connect with the crowd. However, the band took away from the xavier-effect...and for my friends and I, that was something we missed from the previous shows. The main issue I had was that I waited for these tickets for a long time, invested in the best seats they had (row E, seats in the 30s)...after the first song the security guards let the fans rush the aisles and from then on we could only see xavier's head...maybe...there were men as tall as 6'6 in the very front aisle, girls standing on the chairs... the floor wasn't angled enough to accommodate this and still see the stage. it really took away from the experience.
Rudd is an astounding showman. His setlist isn't very long because he drags out every song with massive improvised interlude, but if you like that kind of thing then its awesome. His talent is remarkable - being able to play slide guitar, drum, high hat, didgeridoo, and even harmonica and chimes all in one song simultaneously. Hes a free spirit that one, love him.
That was the WICKEDEST concert,......Xavier brings out the best energy in everyone around him. He is a beautiful man and I WILL go see him every chance I get. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for being amazing at what you do.
by the 2nd song the entire audience got up from sitting down and maintained standing ovation throughout.... at some point many people were dancing on the stage... friendly crowd too
Xavier was amazing with the rest of his crew and the venue was put together well! Everyone was so chilled!! Such a nice relaxed concert with tons of dancing! I would see him again tonight if I could get there again!
This is my forth time going to his show. His concert's are amazing everyone is dancing and having an amazing time. You never want it to end.
Xavier Rudd really does get better every time I see him! And with a flow of new talent to accompany him each time, it adds more and more! Already can`t wait for him to come back around again!
Amazing venue to see Xavier Rudd! Such an amazing musician! So glad Saskatoon brings in this kind of international talent.
Love love love that show! The band was incredible! One of my favorite concerts for sure!!!
You just made us all want to dance in the isles! I will be on board for your next visit! How about an open air concert at the Jazz fest. so we can have room to dance? Welcome back to Saskatoon anytime Mate! Your Sound crew did a fantastic job!
This was the third time I've seen Xavier live and he never disappoints. Every show is a bit different and he keeps you entertained. At this show he had a few fans dancing on stage with him for a while and had his son dancing with him as well. Played a good mix of songs but it doesn't really matter what song he is playing as they jam out for so long anyways. Definitely a show you have to see, Xavier is best experience live.
Xavier Rudd is like no other. He has a charming stage presence, along with incredible talent. His skill in playing a variety of unusual instruments made this show especially delightful. He also appealed to quite a wide variety of ages. Fantastic!