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White Moth

by Xavier Rudd

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On his fourth album in five years, Australian Xavier Rudd continues to blend indigenous music of his homeland with a wide swath of sounds that have delighted and excited him throughout his life. Folk, pop, ska, reggae, world-beat rhythms, and more all are handily unified by Rudd's inviting and expressive vocals. The songs are imbued with human concerns, ranging in scale from small, private familial connections to society's responsibilities towards justice and equality. In particular, the plight of Australia's native people informs some of the lyrics. Rudd protects his heartfelt sentiments with personal and poetic phrases that avoid reducing the matters to sloganeering. Additionally, Aboriginal singers make a guest appearance, adding a timelessness and underscoring Rudd's own musical inspirations. After a series of infectious grooves and celebratory ensemble interplay, the set closes with the introspective "Come Back," a quiet plea that addresses the inner and outer worlds of this musical explorer. --David Greenberger