MUSIC REVIEWS
Matisyahu - Youth
Matt Jameson
They say God works in mysterious ways, and if you are Jewish nothing proves this more than the rampant and sudden success of Matisyahu (pronounced matis-yahoo). Fronted by an unusual character Matthew Miller, Matisyahu blends Miller’s own religious beliefs with the spirit of old reggae. Miller has a great stage presence, after all when is the last time you saw a Hasidic Jew belting out reggae and beat boxing his heart out?
Combined with the talents of drummer Jonah David and guitarist Aaron Dugan Matisyahu revives the true reggae sound we haven’t heard since Bob Marley and the Wailers. But this isn’t just another lame reggae rip-off like the many thousands of Sublime clone bands. There’s a real truth and substance here, the kind that make you immediately realize you are listening to something special.
Being only a minor fan of reggae in general, it takes a whole lot of talent to move me. Since learning of Matisyahu late last year, my ipod has never sounded better. Matisyahu has certainly captured my interest, and due to some serious talent also my respect. This is actually not their first release, but instead the first major label release. This album lends itself to outside influences such as indie rock and alternative rap, and doesn’t follow the mold of the past few albums.
The sheer lyrical prowess displayed in tracks such as the radio hit “king without a crown” and “what I’m fighting for” are simply amazing. Few dare to attempt reggae, let alone adding in scat solos. This brave outside the box approach has landed fans from around the globe. Simply put, this is a record you need in your collection.
All in all I recommend this to anyone with even a minor appreciation of reggae. This music is tight, the composition is brilliant, and it’s flat out daring. Something seldom seen in the industry now days. Check out Matisyahu today, I guarantee you’ll be amazed if nothing else.
