Fried - Friedman Similarity going on here...

Like Uncle, Like Nephew?

I'm noticing some road action on both covers...

JMDerech Experience - Shloime Kaufman

I was attending the chassuna of my wife's friend Sunday night in Brooklyn. As any good music reporter would do, I brought my mini camcorder in hand. Also, I had asked Shloime if he would mind a duet, the two of us, singing my favorite song "Yigdal" from his debut album, Avodas Tzedaka. Shloime, being the nice guy he is, agreed without even hearing if I could sing.

When I entered the halls of Kings Terrace, little did I know of the "magic" that would take place that night. Sure, people were dressed all fancy, and a chassuna is a perfect setting for a good taste, not of food (although it was good!), but rather music! The music was so good it exceeded my expectations. Ya, so I haven't been to a ton of a chassuna's, but I've been to a good share of them and none of them had this quality of music. Neshoma Orchestra was fantastic. From the chuppah to the dance floor, they were flawless. My favorite player was the violinist Asher Laub. Don't get me wrong, every one of the musicians played their instrument to its peak, but there's something about the way Laub delicately wove his bow back and forth across the violin making that perfect pitch! Kaufman was something else all together! He was so into the chassuna and you could tell it was genuine. He was dancing with the olam (crowd), smiling, and all over ecstatic, pumping up the chassuna to what it was, a beautifully orchestrated simcha between two children of B'nai Yisrael. G-d willing, Moshiach will come soon and bring the geula and I hope to see Shloime and the rest of the guys that played that night as part of the musicians who welcome him. There was nothing greater than seeing the joy that the music brought to chassan and kallah (no I was not on the women's side :P) on their wedding night.

I know what your thinking, I must know Laub or Kaufman or any of the guys with Neshoma, but no, that assumption is incorrect. I'm not doing this for the sake of publicity, I'm definitely not getting paid (checks wallet), yup definitely not getting paid. :) I just feel that many people have questions about what orchestra to choose and I hope that this small write up can help them choose.

Let me tell you something, Shloime Kaufman and the Neshoma Orchestra are a class act. They are super professional and all around fun to watch! I filmed a number of songs, but I decided to post the songs that Kaufman is known for. Kol Yisroel, Avodas Tzedaka & Yigdal. If you think he sounds good live, hear him on his debut album, Avodas Tzedaka. You won't regret buying it. See a review of the album I wrote here.

Shimie Braun on Keys

Ari Boiangiu on Guitars

Moe Rosenblum on Drums

Asher Laub on Violin

Mr.Laskin on Sax







Any singers or orchestras who are interested in being a part of the ongoing "JMDerech Experience" series, all I request is a chance at the mic and and email to be sent to me at jmderech@gmail.com. See you soon! :)

Woohoo!!!! Benny Friedman Ringtones!!!!

I was cruising through Facebook and I noticed a comment that someone posted on a link to Benny Friedman's Ta'amu video link. It said -

Don't forget to download his ringtones... Use your phone to go to http://get.madringtones.org and enter one of the following ID numbers:
375842 (Taamu)
375876 (Boi Yavoi)
375864 (Kol Ma)
375887 (Amar)

GO DOWNLOAD THEM NOW! (Make sure you have the DownloadHelper add-on for Firefox if you are downloading it to your computer)

Benny is good. Real good. I can't hear the album yet, but every time my wife calls me, I can dance to a good Benny ringtone. On second thought, My wife may not appreciate the fact that I'm dancing to the ringer instead of picking up her phone call... Eh, only one way to find out ;)

I have never looked so forward to an album before - Benny Friedman Trailer

Finally, an album with a voice I'm looking forward to listening too, not just a good song. That's been the problem this year for me. There have been lot's of new singers, yet none of them really excite me when I listen to them. None of them give me that "Ahh, Geshmak!" feeling that I feel when I listen to someone like Fried or Shwekey sing. Don't get me wrong, they're all great, but they're not GREAT! You know what I mean? Sure, they've had great compositions on their album, but it was missing something. It was missing a voice like Benny Friedman's.

Benny, the nephew of Avraham Fried is not only going to be big, he is already big and he hasn't even released a preview sampler. This first taste of his album is yummy and I'm eating it all up!

As a video editor myself, I give a big shkoyach to the most deserving Moshe Raskin, the video editor. Also to those who filmed - Chaki Abehsera, Moshe Raskin & Sruly Meyer.

The long awaited debut album is almost here!

Presented by Sameach Music and produced by Avi Newmark, this has been one of the most anticipated albums in recent memory, featuring 12 tracks sure to satisfy all musical palettes.

A variety of talented artists team up to bring you this masterful musical production. Selections include compositions from such famed composers as Yitzy Waldner and Elimelech Blumstein, and relative newcomers like Meshulum Greenberger and Oriel Avraham. Arrangers range from Good ol' Mona and Moshe Laufer to the always incredible Leib Yaakov Rigler and Avremi G, along with some great surprises from Ian Freitor, the album's engineer.

The Friedman/Marcus families showcase some very strong talent with three compositions, including the title track, Taamu, composed by Shmuel Marcus, an incredible piece of music sure to take your breath away composed by Simche Friedman, and a Bentzi Marcus composition featuring a duet with 8th Day! Rabbi Manis Friedman, Benny's father, collaborates with Lipa Schmeltzer to compose a Yiddish lyric that will at once force you to look inward, while causing your feet to move with the beat!

A special musical tribute was composed by Yitzy Spinner in memory of Izzy Taubenfeld, the founder of Sameach Music.

As an added bonus, the cover art and the CD jacket and all the corresponding art was all designed by the undisputed king of Jewish Music design, Sruly Meyer!


Keep an eye on JewishJukebox.com for an official release date coming very soon!

To join Benny's street team, help promote the album, and win prizes in the process, email StreetTeam@BennysMusic.com

Benny Friedman - Album Cover and More!

(Album Cover by: Sruly Meyer)

The long awaited debut album is almost here!

Presented by Sameach Music and produced by Avi Newmark, this has been one of the most anticipated albums in recent memory, featuring 12 tracks sure to satisfy all musical palettes.

A variety of talented artists team up to bring you this masterful musical production. Selections include compositions from such famed composers as Yitzy Waldner and Elimelech Blumstein, and relative newcomers like Meshulum Greenberger and Oriel Avraham. Arrangers range from Good ol' Mona and Moshe Laufer to the always incredible Leib Yaakov Rigler and Avremi G, along with some great surprises from Ian Freitor, the album's engineer.

The Friedman/Marcus families showcase some very strong talent with three compositions, including the title track, Taamu, composed by Shmuel Marcus, an incredible piece of music sure to take your breath away composed by Simche Friedman, and a Bentzi Marcus composition featuring a duet with 8th Day! Rabbi Manis Friedman, Benny's father, collaborates with Lipa Schmeltzer to compose a Yiddish lyric that will at once force you to look inward, while causing your feet to move with the beat!

A special musical tribute was composed by Yitzy Spinner in memory of Izzy Taubenfeld, the founder of Sameach Music.

As an added bonus, the cover art and the CD jacket and all the corresponding art was all designed by the undisputed king of Jewish Music design, Sruly Meyer!

Keep an eye on JewishJukebox.com for an official release date coming very soon!

To join Benny's street team, help promote the album, and win prizes in the process, email StreetTeam@BennysMusic.com

(Behind the scene studio photos By: Boruch Ezagui)

Grab These Amazing Albums While They're Inexpensive!

For those of you who haven't heard the beautiful compositions from the group V'havienu (Dani & Aryeh Kunstler + Yitzchok "Scratchy" Yenowitz), let me tell you, you've been missing out. Well, don't worry, here's your chance to make it up to yourself! You must own these albums if you are a fan of Jewish music. All three album I keep re-playing in my car, in my house, while jogging, it doesn't matter, they're just that good!

The best part is, you can now buy Vhavienu 1 & 3 from Sameach Music for $5.80 a piece! Considering V'havienu 3 came out this past year, that's an amazing deal! V'havienu 2 is still full priced, but it's worth the price! Below are links to each album. Happy buying!

Also, see my review of V'havienu 2 on the Jewish Music Report, here.

V'havienu - http://www.jewishjukebox.com/products/chassidic_music/1625.asp
V'havienu 2 - http://www.jewishstore.com/Music/Products.asp?ProdID=SM-DK200
Vhavienu 3- http://www.jewishjukebox.com/products/chassidic_music/2255.asp

Shua Kessin - Contest through Mostlymusic

I've got to tell you, this guy is good at promoting his album. He's got banners and ads coming out all the time and he even had a party for the release of his album in which he sang from a cherry picker. That's impressive. Anyway, here's the contest that Mostlymusic has released:

Send in the cutest photo and enter to win $100 at Mostly Music! Email entries to contests@shuakessin.com

Photos must be with a Shua Kessin cd cover/poster/printout or something that has to do with the new release of Lo Lihitya'eish.

These boys deserve some massive credit!

For those of you who haven't yet seen this, this is a must watch. This a raw talent at its best. The Miami Boys Choir had a concert over Chol Hamoed Sukkos 2009 and in their song Me'im Hashem, the soundtrack died and they were left basically acapella. They had some drums, keyboard and maybe a sax. You'll see when it happens, the boy whose solo it is, takes it in stride. He doesn't stop singing, no, he keeps the show going, giving the crowd a show worth their tickets. Begun does some nice vocal work after the music goes out, listen for it.

Me'im Hashem - Miami Boys Choir Concert on Chol Hamoed Succos

My Review of Shua Kessin - Lo Lahitya'eish

(via JMR)

Shua Kessin is not stam (normal), in a good sense. There, I've said it. He is a multi-talented artist. Singer & Composer, Kessin is the next big thing! I may not enjoy every one of his songs, but it's obvious that he is brimming with talent and a lot of work went into this album. From the top notch compositions, to the masterful arrangements, to the mix of genre's in the songs - This album screams "HIT!"-

The artwork for this album "Lo Lihitya'eish" is easily one of Sruly Meyer's greatest creations. And the booklet is gorgeous. You're going to want to go to DesignsBySruly for your next photo design project, because he's the best in the business. One of the coolest features of the booklet is the notes supplied under every song. Kessin added notes from where he was inspired for each song, allowing you to feel like your personally there with him, listening to his story.

Kessin was interviewed by JMR's very own KolIsha in Country Yossi, which can be seen here. That article will give you the gist of the album.

How am I getting this review out to every so soon after the album was released? I had the privilege to listen to the album early so that I could review and get out the information on this album to you, the buyer, as soon as it hit the stores! I'm reminding you to constantly check into the Jewishmusicreport.com for the most up-to-date information in the Jewish Music industry. Also, see my blog, jmderech.blogspot.com

Tachils & HOT, MILD, COLD Meter Time!

Lo Lahitya'eish: (HOT) Crazy Israeli styled intro. Kessin's range can be heard from the start with this "bang" of an intro! Very often I hear that words don't really fit the music (you know who you are ;D), but there's a noticeable difference with this song. The mix of Hebrew and English and the meanings are fantastic. What's amazing, is the fact that the song is 5:23 long and never gets boring. Fantastic intro and title song!

Nishmas: (HOT) This song, we were privileged to hear early as an acapella version. I was not nearly as impressed with the song then as I am now. This is definitely a song that needs and sounds better with musical backup. Kessin mentions in the booklet that his inspiration for this song came from after speaking to a friend who had been through a troubled life. He told him, Nishmas is about thanking Hashem for the basics of life, not the extras.

Maminim: (HOT) A hora or salsa? composed by Kessin during a friend's sheva brachos. This song is not something to just sit and listen to, one needs to be dancing in order to bring out the pleasure of this song. So come on! Get up off your feet and break it down! My favorite parts of the song are the wordless parts; the "ay di da da dum" parts. Great ending to the song as well :)

Aneini: (HOT)What's interesting about this song, is the fact theat the music has an eerie twist to it, yet the actual song sounds like something off a Shalsheles album. A weird combo. It doesn't matter, this song is a lot of fun to sing. The second part of the song, Kessin plays around more with his voice and harmonizes with himself, giving the song a better sounding quality. For me, this song is more fun for me to sing then to listen to.

Nekudos Toivas: (HOT) Why does this song start off with a stereotypical rap sounding "ya! woo!"? Regardless, it works and it's a intro I've never heard, yet enjoy. The beauty of this song is it's simplicity and sing-ability. You're not going to find anything complicated in this song, which is what gives the song its gadlus! The shticky part, with the added lyrics toward the end (3:55) are very smooth and sweet. Sounds like something Yossi Green would do.

Niggun: (HOT) What would an album filled with diversity be without a Niggun to add to the collection? The sound of this song gives off an "around the campfire" feeling. The music is gorgeous, especially the violin work starting at 2:45. The harmonies following the violin piece spice up the song. It goes from "just another niggun" to a "geshmake niggun".

Refueini: (MILD) Kessin chooses a Chassidic pronunciation for this song and uses Yiddish as well. Kessin composed this song while by an ill young man's bed side. While the song lacks in an amount of different words, it makes up for it in depth. You can feel the heart in this song when he screams out "Refua Shelaima!" (Heal Completely!).

Beitin: (HOT) Motti Illowitz lended a hand in this song with lyrics. Kessin writes that he decided he needed a song with some rhythm and that's where "Beitin" comes in. It sounds very much like a Shloime Dachs song; perhaps Bayom Hahu from Dachs's Avinu album? Regardless, it's way better than that song. 3:59 is amazing! Listen for when he slows down the song for a little bit, it adds some spice.

Generations: (HOT) This song is composed by Yossi Toiv, originally for his zaidy, now with Shua's help, the lyrics are directed more towards all of Klal Yisrael. The guest child soloist is Ami Eller from Kol Noar Boys Choir. He adds some beautiful harmonies behind Kessin - 4:21 and on is beyond words. Kessin slows down the song and begins the climactic ending of the song. This is by far one of the best English songs I've heard in a long time. It's Abie Rotenberg's, Journeys caliber.

Vizamrun Loch: (MILD) This song is very Shlomo Carlebach/Eitan Katz style, with some additives. Anyone who appreciates that style of song can more than appreciate this song. Kessin has the perfect voice for this genre. The guitar strumming behind his voice throughout the song is very befitting. It's my least favorite song on the album, but I still enjoy it, that's saying something.

Bye Bye Bye: (HOT) We all had the pleasure of hearing this song already. A rocking song composed by David Kaufman. Shua uses a Chassidic pronunciation for this song as well. It really would be Bay Bay Bay, but with this change in pronunciation, it sounds like Bye Bye Bye. When I first heard this song, I'll be honest, I didn't like it. However, after the umpteenth time playing it, I fell in love with it. Now I can't stop singing it, just ask my wife. She was going to send me "bye bye bye" if I didn't stop. :P A terrific song to close up a spectacular debut album.

HOT = 9

MILD = 2

COLD = 0

Conclusion:

Go to the store now! Go buy it now! Why are you still sitting at your computer now? Bye Bye Bye!!! :). You can also buy it on Mostlymusic.com through this link, Shua Kessin - Lo Lahitya'eish.

Shua Kessin - NOW AVAILABLE!

I have a review that will appear on JMR soon! This album does not fail to impress!

It's finally here! Lo Lihitya'eish. This debut album from Shua Kessin features 11 tracks. 9 of the tracks are composed by Shua, 1 by Yossi Toiv (Country Yossi) and this track, Bye Bye Bye, composed by David Kaufman. (Be'eilokim, Hareinu Mezamin, Hinei) This album is being delivered to stores as we speak. It's also available online at MostlyMusic.com (http://www.mostlymusic.com/shuakessinlolihityaeish-p-4305.html) you can purchase the CD or download the album with a full PDF booklet!

Please also enjoy an interview which was in the recent Country Yossi magazine.

For updates and more upcoming information, please go to http://www.ShuaKessin.com or follow Shua at http://www.twitter.com/ShuaKessin.

For promotional and booking info call 347-678-2536 or email Ozer Babad at Info@OzerBabad.com

Stomach Flu's - Not Geshmak

I know I've never wrote about anything other than music (I think), but it's time for a change. It's time for a rant!

So I get home last night from my 2 and half week sukkos vacation in Chicago and I have a terrible stomach flu! It was terrible. I was sick before the plane, on the plane, off the plane, and at my apartment. Worst part was this morning. I wake up late because I couldn't move a muscle. I suddenly remember that today is Tuesday. It's alternate side parking day in the wonderful NYC. I go outside, and lo and behold! I have a parking ticket... Can I fight it? "But your honor! I had a stomach flu, cough, cough..." I doubt it, I guess I have to suck it up and pay. Everything happens for a reason though, right?

Until next rant...

JMDerech

Shlock Rock 31 - No Limits - Available for ANY price!

(via JewishInsights)

Lenny Solomon of Shlock Rock has just released a brand new CD. The CD titled, “No Limits” is available as a download on ShockRock.com. But get this, it’s available for whatever you want to pay for it!! Want it for $1? Fine. Want it for $10? Great!
Lenny Solomon has written 12 original English songs and over 51 minutes of music for your listening pleasure! We love these songs so much we are offering you an amazing opportunity. YOU GET TO DECIDE HOW MUCH TO PAY! We call this “PAY WHAT YOU WANT!!!”

We Have Worked Very Hard and Really Want You To Have This Album!!!

After putting in your information you will receive a link to Download the Album!

Anyone paying $15 or more will also receive the CD version of the album shipped to them when it is released on December 3rd of this year! So Enjoy the Music! Now on to the Download!
Here is the 31st Shlock Rock Release! SHLOCK ROCK NO LIMITS

YeshivaBoysChoir.com goes LIVE!

This website is quite detailed and I'm quite impressed with the design, which was designed by Gail Lobel Rand of NightingaleProductions

(Via JMR)
The YeshivaBoysChoir online website has been coming soon for a long time, but last night Eli announced on his facebook the website has launched! Go to YeshivaBoysChoir.com and you can hear samples from all the albums. You can also download (for free!) sheet music from any of the 4 YBC albums. The website has nice animation and interesting information about the choir. The website was designed by Gail Rand, who also designed TheChevra.com and EliGerstner.com

Michoel Pruzansky - Dancing in the Streets Concert

I was in the Chicago area for the chag and I saw the poster for a concert with Michoel Pruzansky! There was no way I was going to miss this tremendous superstar of a voice sing! The best past was... It was entirely free! Woohoo!

The concert started with local warm up singers, including A.Y. Karsh, a famous YouTuber and Acapella singer in the Chicago area. The concert was called - Michoel Pruzansky and Mesamechai Leiv Orchestras Live in Chicago at Bnei Ruven's "Dancing in the Streets 2009" - And boy was there a lot of dancing in the streets. The mood was festive and there was plenty of good food to go around. A great time overall. Here are some pictures that I took and a short video clip.

Shea Rubenstein in Concert Tonight!!!

Concert & Simchas Beis Hashoeva - Open to Men, Women, & Children (Separate Seating)
Starring Shea Rubenstein

Place: Green Road Synagague
2437 South Green Road
Beachwood, OH 44122

Date: Tuesday of Chol Hamoed Sukkos (TONIGHT!) October 6th.

Time: 7:00 - Concert
8:00 - 10:00 - Simchas Beis Hashoeva

Yaakov Chesed - The Passage

A brand NEW album due out by the end of this month!
Stay tuned for song previews later this month!

A Z Report with Michoel Schnitzler

Click the picture for a link to the interview!