WOMAD: Xavier Rudd

Mon 1st Mar, 2010 in Features

Xavier Rudd hasn’t been resting on his laurels and rather than delivering another solo album of sorts he returns with the Xavier Rudd’s Izintaba. Fans heading down to WOMAD will get a preview of what to expect from the new album Koonyum Sun which is released in April.

How’s life treating Xavier Rudd? “I’ve been good and enjoying a bit of time off before getting back in to it.”

Is it weird having time off considering how much you spend touring? “It’s good you know, I’ve needed some time but I’m getting ready to get back in to it because I love what I do. I’ve been hanging out with my kids, surfing and spending time in the bush, which is what I do.”

Is there a new album in the works? “I’ve just finished recording one actually, going by the name Xavier Rudd’s Izintaba. I have a band, which is a South African rhythm section. It’s a really exciting record with plenty of African flare and probably the most exciting thing I’ve ever done. The title of the album is Koonyum Sun.”

How was the whole experience of working with a band this? “Musically it probably was the most exciting album I’ve made and emotionally the hardest one I’ve made as I was going through a hard time when I made it. It definitely is a powerful record and there is a lot of energy and emotion.”

Was that shaped from personal experience? “Yeah, I’ve been going through a separation with my wife, which is pretty devastating and unexpected. I felt as if I was grieving when I made the record. Making music was part of a process in letting some stuff go and understanding that it is a slow process after ten years and two kids, losing a best friend that it is difficult. It’s one now I understand better, it’s a life experience that a lot of people go through that is really fucking difficult. Now it’s a rebirth, start again situation but I am lucky to have my music in times like these. I wasn’t that well for a while but I’m getting well.”

Has the South African influence been something you’ve wanted to explore for a while now? “It’s interesting you know and it’s funny how they turned up. It’s funny they turned up because I didn’t chase them, we just fell together. It was like they were sent to me at a difficult time and I wonder how I would have gone if I didn’t have these guys as they were so strong musically and emotionally. These guys growing up in South Africa have seen huge oppression and were really helpful getting me through this time. After playing solo for so long I never thought much about having a band but the right people will come when they come. I just have to pinch myself playing with them and hopefully they feel the same way about me.”

Will this be a once off? “Nope, we’ll be touring and they’ll be with me from now on. It feels like this will be a permanent fixture as its that strong. I have to say this totally excites me and it’s really cool.”