Bobby Alu - Supporting Xavier Rudd & The United Nations

Bobby Alu. Gosh if I could give ONLY 2 words to describe him it would be "laid back". I have seen him and his band play live a number of times now and each time I feel like I should be in a hammock, sipping on a tropical cocktail.  The music holds a touch unique fusion of percussion, reggae and jazz. Even a slight touch of pop. Filled with catchy songs, uplifting and diverse lyrics, powerful log drumming with a Polynesian ukulele sound.  An accomplished songwriter & travelling musician born on the Gold Coast. I had the excellent opportunity to capture Bobby and his band at the Central Coast Leagues Club during their Australia-wide tour supporting Xavier Rudd & The United Nations.  From the moment the band started playing, the sense of great friendship and warm fuzzy vibes quickly spread throughout the crowd. 

Bobby's Bio:

‘Refreshing, groovy and chilled out all in one’ Timber And Steel
Bobby Alu is an accomplished songwriter & travelling musician born on the Gold Coast. He is a Singer, Ukulele strummer & drummer since the womb. Whether it’s with just him & the baritone ukulele or backed by a slick charismatic band Bobby is known for his signature smooth hammock music & high vibes. Inspired by his Polynesian heritage & following a strong family lineage of performers he writes songs of love, life & travel.
As one of Australia’s top drummers performing around the world for the past 6 years most recently for Xavier Rudd, it was a swift progression stepping out from behind the drumkit to take the mic. Making a name for himself Bobby Alu & his band have enjoyed repeat invitations to Bluesfest (2011/12), Woodford Folk Festival (2010/12), Nannup festival (2011/13) & Island Vibe (2010/11/13), boosting an already stellar CV for this increasingly in-­demand performing artist. 
Joined by highly respected QLD musicians Paulie B (The Beautiful Girls, George), Stewart Barry, Richie Seymour & Hua Hillman this band is the engine room facilitating a bed of style under Alu’s songs. Over the past four years they have been building popularity with successful tours & festival appearances in all states of Australia.
The band's latest release is the 'Bay Sessions' EP. Recorded live in Byron Bay & released Jan 2015, it has already recieved rave reviews with sold out shows.
“Bay Sessions is a beautiful collection of uplifting and diverse instrumentals and solicitous lyrics. Bobby’s approach to music encourages individuals to embrace their quirks and pure individualism, it’s not very often that music makes you feel so positive about yourself these days, but Alu does a fantastic job of making you smile and high-five yourself.”
Blank Gold Coast
The 2010 debut self-­‐titled album sparked immediate following after being listed in Triple J Roots N All ‘Top 10 albums of 2010’ also peaking at #2 in the iTunes Australian world music charts. Song ‘One to Wait’ won a QLD music award & ‘Changes Changes’ was included in the popular Putumayo ‘Australia’ compilation released worldwide May 2014.The 2013 album 'Take It Slow' recieved great reviews, award nominations & featured in Virgin Australia's inflight selection. Bobby is also the drummer for Xavier Rudd’s latest project The United Nations. An 8‐piece powerhouse band currently touring the world.
LIVE: Expect a fresh, simple sound with tastes of Polynesian ukulele, pacific beats, catchy songs, tasty harmony & powerful log drumming on a bed of slick style. Pass through moments like you’re in a hammock or a slave to the beat. A band that grooves like Withers, moves like Marley, charms like Harper but smooth like Fat Freddys.

http://www.bobbyalu.com/