Reviewed by Ian Phillips.
By Xavier Rudd (feat. J-MILLA), Salt.X Records/Virgin Music Australia.
Ball and Chain is the latest single lifted from Xavier Rudd’s new album, Jan Juc Moon, which is due for release on 25 March.
The single is an absolute cracker and features indigenous rapper J-MILLA.
It concerns the seemingly endless fight for justice that our indigenous brothers and sisters are forced to undertake to achieve full recognition of their status as the first Australians and therefore, acknowledgement in the constitution.
The relentless percussive drive of the song underpins their constant striving and along with digeridoo, sparse piano and rumbling deep bass sets an irresistible tone.
It also resonates with the weight of history.
A history of violence and dispossession that many of us have yet to fully acknowledge.
Truth-telling is vitally important.
This is the third track that’s been released from the album so far and they’ve all been great, so I’m excited about the up-coming extended play.
Both the earlier tracks, Stoney Creek and We deserve To Dream, have been well received with over 12 million streams globally and I’m sure that Ball and Chain will do equally as well.
Xavier comments that: “We all carry the weight of our history and the plight of our ancestors as we make our way in this world.
“For some that weight is much heavier than for others.
“Either way the road is long, challenges are set in stone, the human spirit can be remarkable.”
The film clip for Ball and Chain features J-MILLA doing his rap and the energy of the Kabi Kabi dancers. It is due for release early this month so keep an eye out for it.
With the recommencement of live performances after the extensive lockdowns, Xavier is planning an extensive tour including international dates.
Pre-sales have been strong for the 18-date overseas tour with sell out shows in Amsterdam, Antwerp, and Brussels achieved so far.
Second shows have been added to meet the demand.
