Live Review: Xavier Rudd

As people of all ages pile into Thornbury Theatre for Xavier Rudd's sold-out show it's apparent that we're in for a special night. Chilled-out-yet-excited vibes fill the room, both on the ground floor and in the seated balcony.

Xavier Rudd and his band grace the stage with their warm presence. Before he begins, Rudd thanks the traditional landowners and asks that everyone in the audience be respectful of the land while the Aboriginal flag is flown throughout his set. As soon as he starts playing, people dance and groove along, not worrying about anyone else around them and just letting go in the moment. Songs such as Walk Away, Come Let Go, Let Me Be and Comfortable In My Skin are crowd favourites as the audience is treated to didgeridoo and drum solos plus funky cowbell beats.

It's obvious that everyone on stage is so happy to be here and having the time of their lives, which radiates into the audience. Rudd speaks about the importance of having love in our lives since, at times, it's all we've got and the only thing that authority can't take away. He makes mention of the power of love in regards to the same-sex marriage bill and expresses how happy he is about the Yes vote. Rudd then plays Follow The Sun, much to the delight of everyone in attendance. This song goes for about seven minutes and prompts singalongs from the crowd before Rudd and his band stand up, hold hands and take a bow. They leave the stage before a crowd chant brings them back out. After a few more songs, Rudd and co finish with Spirit Bird, which is a really beautiful moment. There are certainly some goosebumps and even a few tears as Rudd performs on the dark stage, solo with his guitar. Rudd smiles the widest smile as the crowd sings the lyrics back at him and this has a powerful effect on us all.