Xavier Rudd has spent the last couple of years touring with Lucky Dube’s rhythm section – Tio “Toto” Moloantoa and drummer Andile Nqubezelo. This year marks the first time he’s supported his 2010 album, Koonyum, with a solo outing.

“It’s been at least five years since I’ve played solo in the States and I’m enjoying that space with just myself and my instruments at the moment,” Rudd said. “My first U.S. shows were solo and I’ll always remember that special synergy with folks that seemed to be there from the start.”

Rudd launches the U.S. portion of the “Tap Root Tour” in Aspen, Colo., at the Belly Up April 28. Look for him in Denver at the Ogden Theatre April 29; Scottsdale, Ariz., at the McDowell Mountain Music Fest April 30 and San Diego at House Of Blues May 1.

Other stops include Los Angeles (May 2), Seattle (May 5), Minneapolis (May 10), Washington, D.C. (May 13),Charlotte, N.C. (May 17), Knoxville, Tenn. (May 18), New Orleans (May 22) and Austin (May 24).

Tickets go on sale beginning Feb. 11 and include free downloads of Rudd’s “Bunjil.” For more information, click here for the Xavier Rudd website.