Amazon.com: Although reggae's religious overtones are often overshadowed by the music's ties to ganja and the hippie movement, there are some socially active or religious leaning artists out there. One of the newest comes in the unlikely figure of a young Hasidic Jew named Matisyahu. Singing with a slight ghetto patois, in Yiddish, and even displaying considerable beat-box skills, the New Yorker is at his best when he works himself into fits of righteous indignation and Old Testament fervor (the limits of his vocal range are laid bare when he croons on ballads). The lean three-piece band on this live recording, his second album, is aerodynamic and flexible, able to do the slow reggae groove or rock out with ferocity. After 12 tracks of stripped-down reggae, however, the music tends to blend into one long groove. Nonetheless, there is an undeniable urgency in this live recording that comes through loud and clear, making it a live document of note by one of reggae's most interesting new figures. --Tad Hendrickson
Misunderstood. I think somehow the listeners missed the point. It is a parody! Just relax and take it as it is: good parody, sucky music.
Exciting mix of Reggae/Rap/Religion This was my first introduction to Matisyahu. I got this CD as a gift, otherwise I might never have heard him. I must say that the music was so different from anything else I had ever heard that it took me some time to get use to. Matisyahu's music is like a strong cup of coffee, you have to acquire a taste for it. Having said that, after a few listens to it, I began to really like it. The fact that this is a "live" album really enhances his style of singing, because he interacts with his audience and they respond. There is an aire of electricity throughout the concert that is palpable. This CD rocks folks! I now own 2 other Matisyahu CD's, but this remains my favorite. His words will shake you and inspire you. Try him, you like him.
Great Album!!! There are not to many artists that have an unique sound and keep you wanting more. Live at Stubbbs album has a awesome bass lines and well written songs. If you want something with a different sound and not commercialized then get this album you will not regret it.
Hasidic Reggae? Just as good as fried chicken and waffles! Admittedly, I thought it was a joke the first time I saw an ad for "Live at Stubb's." I honestly thought it was a Mad TV sketch! However, when I heard him start to sing...I was blown away.
This is an incredible performance. If you've ever bought a live CD only to be disappointed with the sound quality or just the artist's inability to perform live, you have no need to worry about "Live at Stubb's." Matisyahu thrives on the energy from the crowd. You can hear in his voice that's he's electrified by the audience and it's this energy which allows him to effectively channel all of his emotional and religious fervor. If you've listened to "Youth" and "Live at Stubb's" back to back, there's just no comparison. While "Youth" is a good album, this release is just much more dynamic and you feel like you're part of the show. I could almost smell the smoke from Stubb's BBQ pit. Not to mention, the sound quality is very good.
The album is very listenable from beginning to end. However, "Aish Tamid" is my favorite song by far. Matisyahu has incredible range and voice control and this track is a good example of his abilities. In addition to his technical prowess, he's an excellent writer. There's a section of the song where he's reading a poem, more or less, and he paints a picture of New York City. It's so descriptive and the way he sings is very unique. He will change tempo several times within a single verse; then go from a Ragga delivery to a straight delivery to a hip-hop swagger; then use voice effects to prolong a note or sound. Just amazing!
There are several religious references during the performance and in the songs themselves. I wouldn't get too caught up in that. It's simply someone who has strong beliefs and convictions and that's admirable, regardless of the religion. With so much arrogant behavior and narcissm pervading most of popular music, it's refreshing to see an artist who looks beyond themself and material trappings and explores important issues that affect everyone. More live albums Matisyahu!!!
It grows on you Did not like the clapping and the solos but as I said it grows on you
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
