Excited and calm we embarked on our inbound journey to the epicentre of Brisbane's nightlife to witness Xavier Rudd at The Fortitude Music Hall on Saturday (28 May).
My now 18-year-old son, eager to experience the auditory input of his favourite artist from his formative years, and a sober just turned 49-year-old celebrating his birthday.From the security guards to the bubbly energetic Kristy at the box office, the moment we entered The Fortitude Valley Music Hall we were greeted with respect and kindness, and that became the flow and the energy of the night.
Apologies to the support act as we had unexpected delays and our valley souls didn't hit the dance floor until five minutes before the main act.
Opening with a beautiful and moving Welcome To Country, our feet were grounded and centred on Jagera soil. Rudd, humble, large and present, entered the visually tribal stage to the screeching of native birds in the distance.
Image © Samuel D Hall
Sitting quietly at the drum kit, slowly building into the deep and powerful opening track off his new album 'I Am Eagle', before we realised it, the earthy tones of the Yidaki had spoken to our souls and together, embraced in each other's arms, we were swept up in the essence of the talented multi-instrumentalist's journey into 'Jan Juc Moon' – Rudd's tenth studio album.
With open dance-floor space and joined by our new friends and dancing comrades Randal and Katherine, the hypnotic journey ebbed and flowed through soft, delicate invitations of hope, and calm, soothing vibes that wrapped around the heart the primal grooves that move the body.
Delivering poignant messages of connection to country, heart and our collective narrative, I realised I was in the presence of a true national talent!
Xavier evoked deep emotions both on the macro and micro experience of the engaged crowd; I was constantly observing couples embracing in warm hugs and loving connection, others with their hands on their hearts and a general sentiment of gratitude and appreciation.
Image © Samuel D Hall
Finding space and taking some self-time among the noise with a lowered gaze and silent presence within, I found powerful, personal moments of freedom, healing and connection to the essence of well known fan faves like 'Spirit Bird' and 'Follow The Sun'.
Bellowing deep from my diaphragm in harmony with the by now open and emotional crowd, the voices of a few generations echoed loud in the heart the venue.
After a small break we were gifted with an encore of 'Let Me Be', the crowd clapping in unison, dancing with everyone in their space, sharing smiles and happy vibes.
This concert was such a pleasure to hear, see and feel! I am honoured to have shared this with my son and blessed to have had this experience.
