The Bottom Line
Pros
- The Letter
- Fortune Teller
- Food in the Belly
- Famine
- Connie's Song
Cons
- None
Description
- An exciting American debut from an Australian multi-instrumentalist
- Soul-bending instrumentals
- Channeling the spirits of Paul Simon, Leo Kottke and Ben Harper
Guide Review - Xavier Rudd - Food in the Belly
Sure, most of Xavier Rudd's American fans have already heard Food in the Belly via iTunes downloads or copies they've acquired from friends. Nonetheless, this Stateside debut from one of Australia's best new(ish) singer/songwriters is a notable entry in the roster of up-and-coming contemporary folk artists.On Food, Rudd shows his mad skills to his friends in the States; namely his ability to seamlessly, indeed masterfully, command ten instruments at once. At any given moment, Rudd plays an array of percussion instruments, various tones of didgeridoo, acoustic or slide guitar, keys, gongs, and instruments from around the world. But Food in the Belly is hardly a tribute to his freakish one-man-band-ness.
The album is full of truly great songs, utilizing styles that range from reggae to raga to straight-up American-style folk tunes. Some songs sound a little like Jack Johnson with a social conscience, whereas others call to mind legends and Rudd's heroes—artists like Paul Simon and Leo Kottke. With infectious energy and unforgettable hooks, Rudd swoops in.
Whether playing the grumble that starts in his gut and works its way out into the world via didgeridoo, swinging through a groove like "Famine" or "Fortune Teller," or an ode to a woman "Connie's Song," Rudd makes his American debut through honest words, fierce rhythms, and impressive instrumentation.
