Xavier Rudd - GUKU

Gorgeous sunny days always put me in a very chill, laid back mood... And so does Xavier Rudd. The Australian singer/songwriter/multi-multi-instrumentalist has crafted an incredibly unique sound that makes you feel like you've been listening to him all your life. He makes very happy music that just has that bounce to it; it gets you going for the day.

I first heard of Xavier Rudd when I found out he was going to be playing at the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival. I listened to a couple tracks and thought some were good and some okay but it was enough to give him a chance. And boy am I glad I gave him that chance. The dude is a one man wrecking crew up on the stage. He sits inside this most epic of drum kits which features numerous drums/percussion, several didgeridoos, a mic, and his slide guitar. He is consistently playing 3 of these things at once, creating a full band sound all by himself. Too cool. Here's a better idea of what it looks like:

It turned out that the stuff I'd listened to beforehand was nowhere near his best or most famous. I just love Xavier and strongly recommend him to anyone. Check out the albums White Moth, Dark Shades of Blue, or Food in the Belly. Also, if you can find it, Live at the Grid is amazing. He's playing at some record company dudes place in like small town Cranbrook BC for like 20 people. He absolutely kills it on "To Let", my fave of his (that version too).

GUKU just has one of those great grooves that you immediately bob your head to. From the slick slide playing to his and the Native's singing the song is the perfect sound for a beautiful summer day. Just a great, chill track for a great, chill day. I also wore his shirt today which is totally epic! Here it is: