Everything about Matisyahu

Matisyahu- People Get Ready

2011-01-29T01:16:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu- People Get Ready

Miracle - Matisyahu Hanukkah Song

2011-01-22T01:18:00.000-08:00

Miracle - Matisyahu Hanukkah Song

Matisyahu has released a brand new Chanukah song, "Miracle," on iTunes. An uplifting pop gem arriving just in time for the holiday, "Miracle," produced by Dr. Luke protégé Kool Kojak (Flo Rida, Katy Perry, Ke$ha), is drenched in a joyful spirit and features chiming synths, bouncing beats and an irresistible chorus.

Matisyahu - Darkness into light

2011-01-10T01:15:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Darkness into light

2010 Summer Tour Journal - New Hampshire

2010-12-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

2010 Summer Tour Journal - New Hampshire

Another Tour Journal from Matisyahu. As the 2010 summer tour heads to its final few shows, Matisyahu, Dub Trio and crew take a break in New Hampshire to preform and have some fun....

Directed By Amir Norman

Concert Audio by Chris Kaplinski

Matisyahu Sharing His Life Story

2010-12-22T04:12:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Sharing His Life Story

Matisyahu was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania as Matthew Miller; his family eventually settled in White Plains, New York. He also has a younger sister named Julie.[2]
He was brought up a Reconstructionist Jew, and attended Hebrew school at Bet Am Shalom, a synagogue located in White Plains. He performed for over a year under the alias MC Truth in Bend, Oregon's Soulfori band. He spent some time as a young man as a self-professed "Phish-head," taking hallucinogens and following the rock band Phish on tour.
In 1996, Matisyahu took part in a semester-long program that offers students first-hand exploration of Jewish heritage at the Alexander Muss High School in Hod Hasharon, Israel. His experiences there significantly affected his feelings towards Judaism eventually leading to his decision to adopt Orthodox Judaism, becoming a Baal Teshuva around 2001. Initially he found his way to the Carlebach Shul on the West Side of Manhattan. Matisyahu then found his way to Chabad of Washington Square. He finished high school at a wilderness program in Bend, Oregon. Matisyahu then began playing with the Jewish band Pey Dalid.
From 2001 through July 2007, Matisyahu was affiliated with the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York. However, as of July 17, 2007, he told the Miami New Times in an interview that he no longer "necessarily" identifies with the Lubavitch movement. In the interview, he stated that "...the more I'm learning about other types of Jews, I don't want to exclude myself. I felt boxed in. "Additionally, in the fall of 2007, while on a family vacation spent primarily in Jerusalem's Nachlaot neighborhood, he expressed interest in another Hasidic sect, that of Karlin. As of November 2007 he has confirmed a preference to pray at the Karliner synagogue in Boro Park where the custom is to ecstatically scream prayers; however he continues to reside in Crown Heights because of his wife's affinity for the community.
Soon after his adoption of hasidism, Matisyahu began studying Torah at Hadar Hatorah, a yeshiva for returnees to Judaism where he wrote and recorded his first album. He counts Bob Marley, Phish, God Street Wine and Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach among his musical inspirations and gives credit to Rabbi Simon Jacobson's book Toward a Meaningful Life for the lyrical inspiration to Youth's title track. As part of his faith, he does not perform in concert on Friday nights in observance of the Jewish Sabbath. An exception to this occurred at a 2007 concert in Fairbanks, Alaska, which was allowed because the sun didn't set until 2:00 a.m.
Matisyahu's wife's name is Tahlia; They have two sons. As of late 2010, Matisyahu and his wife are vegans.

Miracle - Matisyahu Hanukkah Song Music Video

2010-12-17T02:06:00.000-08:00

Miracle - Matisyahu Hanukkah Song Music Video

An uplifting pop gem arriving just in time for the holiday, "Miracle," produced by Dr. Luke protégé Kool Kojak (Flo Rida, Katy Perry, Ke$ha), is drenched in a joyful spirit and features chiming synths, bouncing beats and an irresistible chorus.

Matisyahu says, "There are so many Christmas songs out there. I wanted to give the Jewish kids something to be proud of. We've got Adam Sandler's song, which is hilarious, but I wanted to try to get across some of the depth and spirituality inherent in the holiday in a fun, celebratory song. My boy Kojak was in town so at the last minute we went into the studio in the spirit of miracles and underdogs and this is what we came up with. Happy Hannukah!"

Moses #34

2010-12-10T04:21:00.000-08:00

Moses #34

Matisyahu auditions for "The Ten Commandments" as Moses #34

Credits: Matisyahu, Simcha Levenberg, Tony Cavalero, Evan Freeman, Shlomi Samya, David Neyts, Chris Rivera
Written by: Simcha Levenberg

Be sure to follow Matisyahu on http://www.facebook.com/matisyahu and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/matisyahu

Matisyahu Interview

2010-12-03T02:41:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Interview

Danny Nolan sits down with Reggae musician Matisyahu to discuss his musical career, religious influences, and his en year old beard

MATISYAHU ONE DAY (JAMBEY REMIX)

2010-11-23T07:23:00.000-08:00

MATISYAHU ONE DAY (JAMBEY REMIX)

Matisyahu interview on B104

2010-09-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu interview on B104

Matisyahu stopped by B104! Cap Cee did an interview at the B104 studio in Allentown! Matisyahu talks about his new record, his career, and his song being chosen as the Olympics theme this year.

Interview with Matisyahu

2010-09-14T02:43:00.000-07:00

Interview with Matisyahu

Ramiro and Pebbles Interview Matisyahu

2010-09-03T02:50:00.000-07:00

Ramiro and Pebbles Interview Matisyahu

Recorded on March 3, 2010 using a Flip Video camcorder.

Matisyahu Live at Stubbs Vol 2

2010-08-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu Live at Stubbs Vol 2

What is with that thing on his head?

Matisyahu - One Day + Beatbox Freestyle

2010-07-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - One Day + Beatbox Freestyle (ACOUSTIC LIVE!)

Matisyahu's One Day on Leno!

2010-07-13T01:34:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu's One Day on Leno!

Stream Matisyahu's Set at Sumol Summer Fest LIVE!

2010-07-03T01:16:00.000-07:00

Stream Matisyahu's Set at Sumol Summer Fest LIVE!

Matisyahu on balcony TV London

2010-06-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu on balcony TV London

Mistaken Matisyahu

2010-06-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Mistaken Matisyahu

Matisyahu’s #1 fan finally gets some personal time - with the wrong person.

Mistaken Matisyahu - watch more funny videos

Matisyahu & PS22 Chorus "ON NATURE"

2010-06-08T03:38:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu & PS22 Chorus "ON NATURE"

Matisyahu vs. others

2010-05-29T03:43:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu vs. John Lennon vs. Blink 182 vs. Bob Marley vs. Gentleman - Imagine One Day (so far away)

Matisyahu - Running Away

2010-05-18T03:57:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Running Away

Matisyahu - Running Away + Beatbox Freestyle (BOB MARLEY COVER)

Unko Funki interviews Matisyahu in Kauai

2010-05-10T01:34:00.000-07:00

Unko Funki interviews Matisyahu in Kauai

Matisyahu - Use Somebody

2010-05-05T03:45:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Use Somebody

MASHUP MONDAYS KINGS OF LEON COVER!!!

Matisyahu interview by PP2G.TV

2010-04-29T03:24:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu interview by PP2G.TV

Matisyahu on Jimmy Kimmel Live

2010-04-23T01:30:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu on Jimmy Kimmel Live

PS22 Chorus & Matisyahu "ONE DAY"

2010-04-19T03:36:00.000-07:00

PS22 Chorus & Matisyahu "ONE DAY"

Nardwuar vs. Matisyahu

2010-04-15T00:02:00.000-07:00

Nardwuar vs. Matisyahu

Matisyahu - Time of Your Song

2010-04-10T03:09:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Time of Your Song

Matisyahu - One Day (Mini Weapon Remix)

2010-03-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - One Day (Mini Weapon Remix)

Infected Mushroom feat. Matisyahu - One Day (Remix)

2010-03-04T01:22:00.000-08:00

Infected Mushroom feat. Matisyahu - One Day (Remix)

Matisyahu - "Running Away" (Bob Marley Cover) live

2010-02-17T01:23:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - "Running Away" (Bob Marley Cover) live on the Preston and Steve Show on 93.3 WMMR Preston and Steve on 93.3 WMMR

Matisyahu ft. Akon - One Day

2010-02-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu ft. Akon - One Day + Lyrics On Video 2010

Lyrics;
Akon
Matisyahu

See everybody that's existing
Got a mind of their own
we´re all kings and queens
with a throne of our own
Tryin to raise a family
in another big home
We got to learn to stick together
Hate to be here alone
Cause the world is a place
That will eat you alive in one day
Said the world is a place
That you can't survive without faith

Sometimes in my tears I drown
but I never let it get me down
So when negativity surrounds
I know some day it´ll all turn around because

All my life I've been waiting for
I´ve been praying for
For the people to say
That we don´t wanna fight no more
They'll be no more wars
And our children will play
One day

it´s not about win or lose
We all lose when they feed on the souls of the
innocent blood drenched pavement
Keep on moving though the waters stay raging
In this maze you can lose your way (your way)
It might drive you crazy
But don´t let it faze you no way (no way)

Gotta hold on
Livin life day by day
Gotta hold on
Put your focus on that one day

All my life I've been waiting for
I´ve been praying for
For the people to say
That we don´t wanna fight no more
They'll be no more wars
And our children will play
One day

One day this all will change
Treat people the same
Stop with the violence
Down with the hate
One day we'll all be free
and proud to be
under the same sun
singing songs of freedom like

Gotta hold on
Livin life day by day
Gotta hold on
Put your focus on that one day

All my life I've been waiting for
I´ve been praying for
For the people to say
That we don´t wanna fight no more
They'll be no more wars
And our children will play
One day

Matisyahu Performs on The Daily Habit

2010-01-21T03:41:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Performs on The Daily Habit

vancouver 2010

2010-01-05T01:45:00.000-08:00

vancouver 2010

Matisyahu - We Will Walk

2009-12-20T03:58:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - We Will Walk

Matisyahu - Struggla

2009-12-16T04:01:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Struggla

Matisyahu - Motivate

2009-12-12T04:02:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Motivate

Matisyahu - On Nature

2009-12-08T04:03:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - On Nature

Matisyahu - For You

2009-12-04T04:09:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - For You

Matisyahu - Escape

2009-11-30T04:10:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Escape

Matisyahu - So Hi So Lo

2009-11-26T04:11:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - So Hi So Lo

Matisyahu - Darkness Into Light

2009-11-22T04:13:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Darkness Into Light

Matisyahu - Silence

2009-11-18T03:57:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Silence

Matisyahu - Thunder (from Light) (w/ lyrics)

2009-11-14T04:05:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Thunder (from Light) (w/ lyrics)

Matisyahu - Thunder (from Light) from 2009 Sony Music Entertainment Reggae
lyrics are...

(Verse 1)
I had to cross the line
To leave you behind
With the hopes to find
Some peace of mind
Now I'm lookin for your voice through the chitter chatter
That doesn't matter
That's torn and tattered
His angels on a ladder
His laughter
Sweep away the extra plaster
I'm crashin fast it's the morning after
Through the hum and the buzz
Thickness and the fuzz
I jump over puddles and stomp through the sludge

(Chorus)
Look for me through the wind and rain (Sunshine!)
(Remember my name)
I'll be coming, Yes I'm running yo I'm on my way
Just stay and I'll be there by the break of day
Look for me through the wind and rain (Sunshine!)
(Remember my name)
I'll be coming, Yes I'm running yo I'm on my way
Just stay and I'll be there by the break of day

(Verse 2)
Evacuate the premesis
You're your own nemesis
The premesis your ?born in blood and leave the world pennyless?
Remember that there's darkness
Before the Exodus

I will be posting a new song from the album "Light" every four days...

Matisyahu - One Day

2009-10-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu One Day

Matisyahu in Israel

2009-10-02T01:35:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu is in Israel for the Jewish holidays, he will be performing in Jerusalem and in Tel-Aviv.image: http://twitpic.com/j3fzo

One on One With Matisyahu -- Exclusive Video

2009-10-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

Watch this, it is very funny....

Matisyahu doesn't look or act like your typical reggae musician, and needless to say, he's probably been thrown some interesting interview questions in the past. In the following clip, however, he's pitted against his toughest interviewer yet -- himself. Watch as the Hasidic reggae star takes questions from his ignoramus alter ego about Twitter, graphic lyrics and, of course, his beard. If this all doesn't seem bizarre enough, consider that that it all takes place on a beach (of sorts). Have a look after the jump.

Dispatch the Troops (live) - Matisyahu

2009-09-20T03:44:00.000-07:00

Dispatch the Troops (live) - Matisyahu

Matisyahu doing a private live performance at the 98.7 Slot Music Studio, performing Dispatch the Troops! :)

Matisyahu - Thunder (live)

2009-09-14T02:46:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Thunder

Live from the CD101 Big Room, Matisyahu with "Thunder" on July 15, 2009.

MATISYAHU TALKS ANTI-SEMITISM AND JEWISH IDENTITY

2009-09-07T05:09:00.000-07:00

MATISYAHU TALKS ANTI-SEMITISM AND JEWISH IDENTITY

With his new single "One Day" Matisyahu, the reggae-rap-rock artist imagines a place of tolerance for everyone, and he talked about facing not-so-nice European sentiment and his impact on Jewish identity.

Matisyahu photos

2009-09-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some nice photos I found on flickr:

Trevor Hall feat. Matisyahu "Unity" EPK

2009-08-26T05:10:00.000-07:00

Trevor Hall feat. Matisyahu "Unity" EPK

The "Unity" collaboration between Trevor Hall and Matisyahu for Trevor Hall's upcoming self-titled album to be released July 28, 2009.

Matisyahu Stage Dives!

2009-08-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu Stage Dives!

Few years back Matisyahu said he can't stage dive because he is not allows to touch any females. I guess he is not as strict as he used to be, or, he made sure no female will touch him? wait, now I see he does that fairly often:
well, I guess things do change... Anyways, here is something I found on YouTube:

Trevor Hall feat. Matisyahu performing 'Unity' LIVE

Trevor Hall featuring Matisyhau performing "Unity" for the first time together live in Santa Monica, CA. Very nice, it is a song they wrote together just two days back, its funny how Matisyahu sings as he reads the lyrics from his BlackBerry :)

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light

2009-08-18T01:34:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light

Lyrics:

Sit back
And in these days
Remember my ways
Oh will i get out of my cage?
Yes i am a slave

Searching for some freedom
Searching for some freedom

So intend to sing them
Songs to spark, memories
What is a man with no history?
Where am i ?
Who am i ?
What is this place?,
We're just spinning in space

I will be light
I will be light
I will be light
I will be light

Time will continue without you
So in the end
Its not about you
But,
What did you do?
Who do you love besides you
Beside you, many died in the name of vanity
Many die,in their minds eye, for justice
We die for you
And still do
So i say to you
This is nothing new

I will be light
I will be light
I will be light
I will be light

Its/In one tiny moment in time
For life to shine, to shine
Burn away the darkness

Youve got one tiny moment in time
x7 For life to shine, to shine
To burn away the darkness

I will be light
I will be light
I will be light
I will be light light light light
I will be light
I will be light light light light

matisyahu interview music SUGO

2009-08-10T01:54:00.000-07:00

matisyahu interview music SUGO

One Day (live remix) - Matisyahu

2009-08-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

One Day (live remix) - Matisyahu

A private performance by Matisyahu at the 98.7 Slot Music Studio!
Performing (out of his "Light" album) his new single, One day!

MATISYAHU FINALLY READY TO RELEASE DELAYED LIGHT

2009-07-31T01:28:00.000-07:00

MATISYAHU FINALLY READY TO RELEASE DELAYED LIGHT

Matisyahu, the hasidic Jewish reggae rapper, is set to release his new album, Light, and he explained over two years of delays.

one day - matisyahu

2009-07-26T01:10:00.000-07:00

one day - matisyahu (official video with lyrics)

Drown In The Now

2009-07-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

The Crystal Method feat Matisyahu - Drown In The Now

Matisyahu - Fire and Dub

2009-07-17T01:38:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Fire and Dub

Matisyahu - Youth Dub

2009-06-19T01:40:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Youth Dub

MATISYAHU T-Shirts

2009-05-23T05:01:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu T-Shirts

Check out these Matisyahu t-shirts...

Matisyahu - Master of the Field

2009-05-19T01:55:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - Master of the Field

Matisyahu "Late Night In The Field"

2009-05-06T11:02:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu "Late Night In The Field"

Styleyes: Matisyahu interview

2009-04-25T01:06:00.000-07:00

Styleyes: Matisyahu interview

Styleyes interviews hasidic reggae musician Matisyahu.

Matisyahu-Message In A Bottle (Dub Version)

2009-04-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu-Message In A Bottle (Dub Version)

Matisyahu performs "I Will Be Light" acoustic

2009-04-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu performs "I Will Be Light" acoustic

Dancing with Matisyahu

2009-03-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Dancing with Matisyahu

Check this cool application to make it look like you are dancing with Matisyahu. It enables you to upload your photos and then you appear on stage at a Matisyahu gig. Click on the image:

Matisyahu Jerusalem Acoustics

2009-03-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu Jerusalem Acoustics

Matisyahu - Smash Lies

2009-03-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Smash Lies

The new song from the newest album by Matisyahu - Shattered.

Matisyahu "Time of your Song" live @ Stubb's

2009-02-18T09:23:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu "Time of your Song" live @ Stubb's

Matisyahu performs Time of your Song @ Stubb's, Austin, TX 11/11/2008...Well, most of it, until he comes over and chills on the speaker I'm leaning on and I turned the camera off while getting the obligatory "What's up/How ya doin/Thank you for coming" handshake...

MooseShirts - 72 HOUR 35% ULTIMATE VALENTINE'S SALE‏

2009-02-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is coming & MooseShirts have an exciting sale available for the following 72 hours (Ending late Tues. Feb. 10th). Take 35% off your entire order with coupon code 35val09. Products will sell out fast, so get your favorite items while they are in stock. Enter coupon codes on the bottom of the shopping cart page:

Matisyahu, Athletic T-Shirt

List Price: ~~$23.99~~
Price: $19.99

Matisyahu, Logo T-Shirt

List Price: ~~$23.99~~
Price: $19.99

Matisyahu, Voice Stencil T-Shirt

List Price: ~~$23.99~~
Price: $19.99

Matisyahu - Two Child One Drop

2009-02-02T05:23:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Two Child One Drop

From Matisyahu´s EP Shattered (2008)

Buzz: Matisyahu Sees The "Light"

2009-01-24T01:04:00.000-08:00

Buzz: Matisyahu Sees The "Light"

NBC's "The Buzz" raps with Hasidic Jewish reggae phenomenon, Matisyahu, about his new album, "Light", why he decided to become more religious years ago, and his thoughts on the ongoing violence in the Middle East.

MATISYAHU - I WILL BE LIGHT

2009-01-18T07:07:00.000-08:00

MATISYAHU - I WILL BE LIGHT

Matisyahu performs "I Will Be Light" on G ROCK SESSION

Matisyahu, C-Rayz Walz, Kosha Dillz "Childhood" Live in NYC

2009-01-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu, C-Rayz Walz, Kosha Dillz "Childhood"

Matisyahu, C-Rayz Walz, Kosha Dillz "Childhood" Live in NYC as part of the Festival of Light tour.

Matisyahu vs. Lion King

2009-01-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu vs. Lion King

Matisyahu - Time of your Song vs. Lion King - Circle of Life (Studentenmafia Remix)

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light

2008-12-29T08:50:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light

Matisyahu Tees

2008-12-22T12:41:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu tees

Matisyahu - Festival of Lights

2008-12-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Gives Gifts at the
Festival of Lights

Win a Prize Package for Each Night of Chanukah! 8 WINNERS!

At each Festival of Lights show, Matisyahu will randomly select a winner from his list of contest submissions to win a prize package. The prize package includes a Festival of Lights poster signed by the whole band, a Matisyahu t-shirt and a live recording of the show where Matisyahu announces your name on stage.

In addition, Matisyahu will personally call you to congratulate you and exchange holiday greetings!

Prize Packages Include:

A Personal Phone Call from Matisyahu!!
Your name announced at the Festival of Lights
Recording of the show where your name is drawn
Festival of Lights Poster signed by the whole band
Matisyahu T-Shirt

ENTER THE CONTEST NOW!

Festival of Lights Shows:

12.21.08 - Festival of Lights - Webster Hall - New York, NY [buy tickets]
12.22.08 - Festival of Lights - Webster Hall - New York, NY [buy tickets]
12.23.08 - Festival of Lights - Webster Hall - New York, NY [buy tickets]
12.25.08 - Festival of Lights - Webster Hall - New York, NY [buy tickets]
12.27.08 - Festival of Lights - Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NY [buy tickets]
12.28.08 - Festival of Lights - Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NY [buy tickets]
12.29.08 - Festival of Lights - Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NY [buy tickets]
12.30.08 - Festival of Lights - Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NY [buy tickets]

Matisyahu Video Blog - "Pimp my RV"

2008-12-11T09:15:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Video Blog - "Pimp my RV"

Enjoy Matisyahu's first video blog!
Welcome to Matis' RV and explore the pimping!

Matisyahu - So High, So Low

2008-12-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - So High, So Low

Matisyahu performs at the SoHo Synagogue

2008-11-28T00:36:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu performs at the SoHo Synagogue

Check out this matisyahu beatbox from 2006!

Matisyahu Beat Box Rebel Live San Jose

2008-11-20T04:25:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu Beat Box Rebel Live San Jose

Matisyahu Beat Box Rebel Live San Jose Ca Civic Center Sept. 9th 2006

Matisyahu with WookieFoot Project Earth 2008

2008-11-14T01:54:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu with WookieFoot Project Earth 2008

Matisyahu surprise guest appearance with WookieFoot at Project Earth 2008 international charity fund raising festival in Minnesota...

Matisyahu - Kenneth Cole Commercial

2008-11-07T01:10:00.000-08:00

Matisyahu - Kenneth Cole Commercial

American brand name shoe designer Kenneth Cole has started a new ad campaign with the theme "we all walk in different shoes", featuring matisyahu [hassidic reggae artist] among others, recognizing interesting individuals who have refused to conform to societal boundaries.

Matisyahu: Shattered- Album Review

2008-10-30T03:29:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu: Shattered- Album Review

By T.O. Snob

When I first became aware of Matisyahu I assumed he would be a flash in the pan. Somehow the novelty of a Hasidic Jew who raps to reggae couldn't sustain itself.

Boy was I wrong.

This week saw the release of his new EP Shattered. Consisting of four new songs, the EP is a precursor to his forthcoming full length album Light (due in early 2009).

Much of the EP was recorded in Jamaica, and the island vibe is rife throughout the tracks. Matisyahu was joined by Jamaican reggae rhythm combo Sly & Robbie on drum and bass.

The lead-off track "Smash Lies" is the most hip hop song. Opening with banjo and string samples it quickly falls into a groovy hip hop beat over which Matisyahu lays down reggae infused vocals.

The standout song on the EP is "So Hi So Lo". The most rock(ish) track, it is lifted by bright, hopeful vocals and an easy-going mellow ska lilt worthy of Sublime. Speaking of ska, one of the all-time greats, Norwood Fisher of Fishbone fame, joins Matisyahu on the song.

"Two Child One Drop" is an intriguing song. Beginning with the island vibe that permeates much of Shattered, the 6-minute track eventually morphs into a middle eastern style outro.

While I'm still not sold on Matisyahu's ability to stay interesting and vital over the long term, Shattered is a decent feel good EP.

Best track: "Si Hi So Lo"

Track listing for Shattered:

Smash Lies- MP3
So Hi So Lo
Two Child One Drop
I Will Be Light

Matisyahu plays the Phoenix in Toronto on Nov. 16th and Metropolis in Montreal on Nov. 17th.

6.5

Review: Matisyahu’s new EP Shattered

2008-10-25T02:33:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu strays too far from genre on new EP

by Michael Merline
Thursday, October 23, 2008

Matisyahu’s new EP Shattered is awfully short at only four songs and 18 minutes — but that’s a good thing. The accurately titled Shattered plays like a bad stepping stone between albums and should be treated as such.

It’s not that Matisyahu or his cast of bandmates are inherently bad musicians. In fact, that’s pretty far from the case. Matisyahu’s sometimes hard-to-find first album, Shake of the Dust…Arise, is notable for some truly novel moments and at representing a time in the Hasidic-Jewish reggae artist’s career when his lyrics and unique image didn’t feel tired or gimmicky.

But it’s been a solid live album, a mainstream LP that embraced syrupy production and finally a questionable remix-EP since then, and Shattered doesn’t suggest Matisyahu is going to return to that more hypnotic reggae sound. Instead, he just keeps pumping out the pop and not the well thought-out kind. These four new tracks, namely the likely single candidate “So Hi, So Lo,” are overproduced and feel dubiously canned. And who says “So Lo” and honestly expects success?

The moments of hypnotic dancehall digression that marked Shake and make up much of Matisyahu’s more satisfying live performances barely make appearances here. “Smash Lies” trudges along over a tinny drum-line that sounds like it’s pulled straight from a bad 50 Cent outtake, but at least the song’s refrain does shed a few layers of gloss. The whole track should have had that feel, and it’s a damn shame.

Matisyahu seems to have lost all his reggae charm that — for the same reasons Matisyahu was once more intriguing — got everybody and their cousin to buy Bob Marley’s Legend. Shattered moves away from the grimy authenticity inherent in reggae as a genre and instead embraces a soulless digital touch.

And it doesn’t help that Matisyahu’s moralist religious lectures are getting harpy and uninspired instead of refreshingly spiritual and sophisticated. His fun vocal stylings do come through in varying ways on “Two Child One Drop.” If only he didn’t ruin that satisfying moment with such banal lyrics as “These are the demons that come through my life/ They’ve killed me over 1000 times.” For the third studio release in a row, Matisyahu ends on a whiny note (“I Will Be Light” this time around), again asking an unsympathetic frat-party audience to heed his preaching.

Sure, the religious aspect is supposed to be the point of Matisyahu’s music, but people really just want to hear some quality reggae. His nods to traditional Jewish folk music are admirable but sound so out of place mixed with electronic beats and synths that they’re hard to take seriously.

As for the not-so-serious stuff, the few instances of Matisyahu’s beatboxing abilities present on Shattered are buried beneath suffocating production. They sadly feel like poorly-executed afterthoughts when they could have supplied some much needed organic sound — sonic fresh-air — to these new tracks.

Matisyahu’s style is still interesting, but it’s getting less unique. For this reason, the bearded rocker in the black steeple-hat shines in a live format but lets his work get mangled in the studio. Matisyahu is trying to lighten up, which isn’t a bad thing, but adding more and more polish and straying from slinky reggae song structures is going about it the wrong way.

It’s not that Shattered is totally unlistenable. In fact, it spins to a finish before you know it. But its faults keep it from being something worth returning to, and it doesn’t suggest promise for Matisyahu’s next full-length. Another concert recording is in order for Mr. Miller — maybe in the process of putting that out he can get back to his roots and recall what made him a novelty that lasted in the first place.

MATISYAHU'S SHATTERED IN STORES TODAY

2008-10-22T09:59:00.000-07:00

MATISYAHU'S SHATTERED IN STORES TODAY

Grammy-nominated artist Matisyahu is back with his newest work, Shattered, out today, October 21, through Epic Records.
Produced by David Kahne (Paul McCartney, Regina Spektor, Sublime), Shattered features songs from Matisyahu's forthcoming album, recorded and mixed in Jamaica, New York, Los Angeles, and Virginia. Several guest artists contribute to the four-song EP: ground-breaking Jamaican reggae rhythm section Sly & Robbie (drums and bass, "Two Child One Drop" and "I Will Be Light"), son of legendary reggae artist Freddie McGregor and among Jamaica’s youngest and most innovative young producers Stephen McGregor (co-producer, keyboards, drum-programming, "Smash Lies") , Fish (drums, "So Hi So Lo") and Norwood Fisher (bass, "So Hi So Lo") of the legendary L.A. alt-punk-ska band Fishbone and experimental turntablist Ooah from the Glitch Mob (co-producer, co-writer, drum programming on "Two Child One Drop").
Enjoy a free copy of "Smash Lies", off of Shattered!

Download Free "Smash Lies" MP3

Stan Ipcus and Matisyahu "WP"

2008-10-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

Stan Ipcus and Matisyahu "WP"

Stan Ipcus brings Matisyahu on stage to perform a remix of "WP" over the Bob Marley "Waiting in Vain" instrumental, live from Piano's in NYC July 2006

Matisyahu T-Shirts

2008-10-10T03:13:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu Shirts

Matisyahu - One Woman Dub

2008-10-08T01:07:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - One Woman Dub

Matisyahu @ Project Earth 08

2008-10-03T01:57:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu @ Project Earth 08

A Special Visitor was kept under wraps,at the Majestic Oaks of Harmony Park during Project Earth 08. Shortly before Wookie Foot wrapped up their set,Jo Jo announced Matisyahu as a special guest, and the crowd went crazy. I love this place, WELCOME HOME!!

Matisyahu Raves with The Crystal Method

2008-09-27T02:00:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu Raves with The Crystal Method

Late night sets at festivals have a frentic energy and when Matisyahu joined The Crystal Method during their performance at Pemberton Festival it was no different. Check out Matis drop rhymes from "Heights" and "Dispatch The Troops'. To be honest, if you ask me, the combination was ok, just ok...

Matisyahu fall dates

2008-09-21T01:14:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu fall dates

Matisyahu has confirmed an extensive Fall tour to support the release of his new EP, "Shattered", which will be available in mid-October. Here are the confirmed Matisyahu fall dates:

10/18 The Eagles Club- Milwaukee, WI
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

10/19 Riviera Theatre- Chicago, IL
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

10/22 Egyptian Room at Murat Center- Indianapolis, IN
w/ special guests Flobots and TBA

10/23 The Fillmore Detroit- Detroit, MI
w/ special guests Flobots and TBA

10/25 Mr. Smalls Theatre- Millvale, PA
w/ special guest Chester French

10/26 Magic City Music Hall- Johnston City, NY
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

10/28 Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel- Providence, RI
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

10/29 Orpheum Theatre- Boston, MA
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

10/30 Electric Factory- Philadelphia, PA
w/ special guests Flobots and Mishka

11/1 Rams Head Live- Baltimore, MD
w/ special guests Flobots and TBA

11/2 Wellmont Theatre- Montclair, NJ
w/ special guests Flobots and Mishka

11/3 Sixth and I Historic Synagogue- Washington, DC
w/ special guest Mishka

11/4 Virginia Tech University - Burruss Hall Auditorium, Blacksburg, VA
w/ special guest Future Rock

11/6 Norva Theater- Norfolk, VA
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/8 Variety Playhouse - Atlanta, GA
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/9 House of Blues- New Orleans, LA
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/10 House of Blues- Houston, TX
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/11 Stubb's Waller Creek Amphitheatre- Austin, TX
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/13 Palladium Ballroom- Dallas, TX
w/ special guests Future Rock and The Heavy Pets

11/15 Marquee Theatre- Tempe, AZ
w/ special guests Future Rock and Chester French

11/17 House of Blues- San Diego, CA
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

11/18 Club Nokia- Los Angeles, CA
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

11/19 Bell Memorial Union Auditorium- Chico, CA
w/ special guest Chester French and Benny Cassette

11/20 Grove of Anaheim- Anaheim, CA
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

11/22 House of Blues- Las Vegas, NV
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

11/23 Warfield Theatre- San Francisco, CA
w/ special guests Flobots and Chester French

11/24 The Catalyst- Santa Cruz, CA
w/ special guest Chester French and TBA

11/26 Harry O's- Park City, UT
w/ special guests K'naan and TBA

11/29 Ogden Theatre- Denver, CO
w/ special guests K'naan and TBA

11/30 Fox Theatre- Boulder, CO
w/ special guests K'naan and TBA

12/6 Headliners Music Hall- Louisville, KY
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/7 Cannery - Nashville, TN
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/9 Blue Note - Columbia, MO
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/11 Bogart's - Cincinnati, OH
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/14 House of Blues- Cleveland, OH
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/16 Phoenix Concert Theatre- Toronto, ON
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/17 Metropolis- Montreal, QC
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

12/18 Higher Ground- Burlington, VT
w/ special guests K'naan and Trevor Hall

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light (Special Performance)

2008-09-19T01:17:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu - I Will Be Light (Special Performance)

(fast forward to 0:50 for song). Matisyahu performing his new song "I Will Be Light" durng a special performance in the myspace tent during the Orlando, FL Warped Tour.

Night Talk: Interview With Matisyahu

2008-09-13T01:44:00.000-07:00

Night Talk: Interview With Matisyahu

Matisyahu on kennethcole.com

2008-09-08T02:08:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu on kennethcole.com

Check out Matisyahu on kennethcole.com where he is interviewed and sings his new song "I would be light". It is a commercial of course, but a nice one.

Matisyahu-Beatbox@9:30 Club 12/13

2008-09-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

Matisyahu's beatboxing at the 9:30 Club in DC on 12/13 2006

Matisyahu - Aish Tamid מתיסיהו

2008-08-19T03:23:00.000-07:00