A Jewish Star Entry

Remember this composition? Music by Hillel Kapnick

How To AutoTune in GarageBand

Everyone hates Autotune and everyone loves it. It makes you sound like a robot who can sing really well. Check out what I did with AutoTune...


People say it's cheap and enhances the voice so it should be banned. I say, do what you like, and here's how.

First of all. Get a Mac.

Secondly. Open GarageBand.

Create a new "Real Instrument" track.

Click on the track you recorded, and swing over to the right side of the screen where it says "Edit". Click on this tab.

Add the following effects:
Compressor - Vocal Compression Rap (setting)
Distortion - Bring the "Drive" setting to 4.5
Chorus - Bring the "intensity" to 2.0
Master Echo - 22%
Master Reverb - 38%

Swing over to the left side of the screen, double click on your recorded track which will open up a "track editor" panel below the recorded track.

Check off the Enhanced Tuning and crank it up to 100%

You know should have the same sound that I have in the track that I recorded above.

I want to hear your versions, so email me your auto-tuned songs at jmderech@gmail.com

Enjoy!

Two Chanukah Remixes from Acapella Groups

Here are two videos of secular music turned Jewish. One is The Maccabeats singing "Candlelight" which is a take off of "Dynamite". Two is Six 13 singing a compilation of songs for NCSY called "I Light It". Included in the medley is "Baby", "Heartless", "I Like it".

Note: The NCSY video does not only have men in it, if this offends you, don't watch it.

Guest Review Coming Soon

Soon, I will have a review of Miami's Soloist album "Hissorerus". The review will be done by a very special reviewer which will be revealed at the time of the review's release. :)

Duty or Intrusion?

I was at the local Judaica store the other day and as always, I headed to the music section of the store. I browsed all the new titles and all the old ones. Looked at sales. Played the "guess which covers were designed by Sruly Meyer" game (it's usually the good ones). And just zoned out in that section for a while. It was like, my section of the store. My sacred place.

Anyway, another customer was browsing at the albums with the store counterperson and was asking for a good album to buy, being that they are just starting to listen to Jewish music. I think the customer wanted a good "fast" album. The counterperson admitted that they didn't know which was the best per say, but they pointed them in the direction of two albums, which, if I were a newcomer to Jewish music, would turn me off. The customer then proceeded to buy the albums and walked off with some terrible music.

Here's the question. As a Jewish music reviewer and someone who has some taste when it comes to knowing what to buy and what to avoid, should I have interfered and suggested a different, better album? Think about it, if you have a question about taxes, you go to your accountant, so if you have a question about Jewish music, wouldn't you like to here advice from an avid Jewish music fan and writer?

So here's what I came up with. Let's do this gemara (talmud) style.

If I were to intrude on the conversation, yes, I would be saving that customer money and the frustration of a bad album. However, by telling them that one album is better than the other, and then they go and buy the "better" album, aren't I taking possible earnings away from the original album the customer picked up?

What do I do? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Ever Wonder What A Kid Would Sound Like Singing That?

Have you ever wondered what a kid would sound like singing a Shwekey or Fried song? Well, thanks to Yerachmiel Begun, you no longer have to wonder. Begun has been working on this album for five years. I must say, the arrangements are fantastic and beyond my expectations.

Begun uses Miami soloists, Shaul Elson, Yair Kenig, Binyamin Ravina Abramowitz & David Herskovitz for these inspiring songs. I'm not sure about the soloists selections or about how many times each soloists sings, but I am sure that a lot of effort went into matching the voices with each particular song.

Miami Solo Album is a great addition to my musical connection and would be a great one to yours and your friends, so buy one for them! After all, Chanukah is coming up.

Shlock Rock Chanukah Concert

Torah Academy of Buffalo Grove presents Jewish Unity 2010 Hanukah Concert on Sunday November 21, 2010 at 3:30 PM. Starring Lenny Solomon of Shlock Rock and the Moshe Skier Band.

Shlock Rock is a Jewish Rock Band that teaches Jewish ideas through music using song parodies, original music in both English and Hebrew and children's songs. Lenny Solomon started the ball rolling in 1986 and since then the band has released more than 30 amazing albums! Shlock Rock has gone where no Jewish bands have gone before: Trivial Pursuit, Imus in the Morning, Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, and Entertainment Tonite. Most important of all, Shlock Rock has gone straight to the hearts of Jewish families everywhere.

Lenny Solomon now resides with his family in Israel. Dr. Moshe Skier, one of the original members of Shlock Rock, has his own successful band. He lives and practices in Milwaukee, WI. The concert will take place on Torah Academy's campus located at Congregation Beth Am at 225 McHenry Rd in Buffalo Grove, Illinois (45 mins outside of West Rogers Park). This concert will be enjoyed by all - children, teenagers and adults. To purchase tickets please call 224-353-7791, visit the school's website at www.torahacademybg.com

We Await Thee O' Jewish Music

There's been a lot of downtime in the Jewish music industry. This time of year appears to be the great depression for Jewish music artists. Chanukah is usually the birth of new albums, just in time for people to make a new purchase as a chanukah gift to themselves or to an other. Regardless, there's some new music on the horizon, which we all pray will be refreshing and uplifting.

However, I don't want to focus on the new albums, let's recap on the recent releases.

Benny Friedman - Berachamim Single. The beautiful voice of Benny Friedman, a composition by the multi-talented Ari Goldwag and the gorgeous background vocals of Yitzy spinner. Yet, the best part is that buy purchasing this single, you are giving tzedakah to help the family of Ilan Tocker, a Cedarhurst, NY man who has a serious brain injury.

Shauli - Ahavta Otanu (click the flash player on the bottom of the screen). I previously wrote about the talents of Shauli. A composer, singer, arranger who put together his own album on a low budget, and still managed to sound great. He has some great compositions on his debut album, Simcha Bilibi. Well now, he's come out with a new single which uplifts the soul and warms the heart.

Everyone - Unity Single. What do you get when you take major voices in Jewish music and combine them together to sing a classic MBD song with a twist? You get the Unity single, like Benny Friedman's single, is only a dollar and benefits the fund to liberate Sholom Rubashkin.

Omek Hadavar - Mekor Chaim. We seem to have an addition to the alternative Jewish music scene. I haven't had the chance to listen to this album in its entirety, only the sample. If I would be blessed with a copy of the cd, I can give a review on what sounds like a great album.

Avraham Fried - Hu Yivneh. Nothing like the sweet and powerful voice of Benny Friedman's uncle, Avraham Fried. "In this song he comforts the sole survivor, Dotzi Gottstein, of the horrific car-train crash which killed his entire family".

Shmuel Mashiach - Shema Koleinu. Never heard of Mr. Mashiach before, but he kind of sounds like a cross between Gertner and Dovid Stein. He has a single available for $1.50. Listen and see if you like it.

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That sort of puts an end to the recent releases. Obviously, Shalsheles 5 and Dovid Gabay's new album were covered by the bigger sites and need no mini recap. On the horizon is Yisroel Werdyger's new album "Ashirah Vazamrah", which happens to be the only upcoming cd with a projected release date (11.22.10). I know that Pruzansky should be releasing an album soon as well. Rumor has it, it's entitled MP3 (michoel pruzansky 3). Nothing else to report really. Let's hope a lot more information is released on upcoming albums, and soon...

Shalsheles V Review

Yitzchak Rosenthal is back with his expert compositions for Shalsheles V. Although the group remains intact, Simcha Sussman is now recording from Israel, his new home.

Shalsheles has always been known to be "bed time music." It's relaxing, refreshing and not in your face. Last album, they changed that style with Yufyafisa and Kel Hakavod and fans were eating it up. A.K.A. Pella made a remix of Yufyafisa not once, but twice (with the help of Shalsheles Jr). In this album, you'll find songs like Ashrei Ish, Mi Chamocha and Me She'asah, which add a fresh, modern day feel that's constantly missing in Jewish music.

As Jews, we live by our heritage. We keep it intact and pass the mesorah down from generation to generation. However, the style that is Jewish music is not a mesorah, it is music from 30 years ago. It's just outdated music. Slowly, musicians are starting to realize that in order to appeal to the younger crowds, they need to change their music. By doing so, they are not breaking a mesorah, they are just breaking a bad habit of staying with outdated music. I'm glad to see that Shalsheles clearly notices that Jewish music is evolving and needs to. They have shown this by bringing in Aryeh Kunstler's musical talents to the third song, Ashrei Ish. I hope more of the Jewish musicians follow in those footsteps and update their music as well. Shalsheles has managed to change the style of music to sound better, but not secular and electrified, like much of today's contemporary secular music.

I heard a great line the other week. When I asked about the chol hamoed concerts in New York this year (not the boys choirs), and what the crowd was like there, I was told the following. "All the concerts on Chol Hamoed were empty, I think people are starting to realize that it's (concerts) not much more than a wedding without the shmorg!" It's true. With the abuse of outdated music and horn instruments, which rightfully belong at a wedding to give it that special "wedding feel", the concerts are just wedding that you have to pay to go to and you don't get any food! As Jewish music evolves and the fan base grows, I think we will find that concerts will be a lot more exciting!

Once again, kudos to Shasheles for keeping Jewish music refreshing!

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(Instead of giving you long, boring, detailed recaps of each song, I'll give, what I thought were the positives and negatives of each song. I'll let you decide the rest! :D)

Positives = "+" signs. Negatives = "-" Signs.

Baruch Habah

+ Great music on the intro, especially the keyboard behind the opening lyrics

+ Simcha Sussman sounds amazing, despite being in Israel

+ Good length for intro

- Would have liked some more high harmonies instead of choir harmonies

Poseach

+ Classic Shalsheles intro and arrangement

+ Great refrain (low part), better chorus (high part)

+ Chaim Block's high part towards the end

- Middle part leaves more to be desired

- Song fades out, which is outdated

- Classic Shalsheles intro and arrangement

Ashrei Ish

+ Aryeh Kunstler's rock solid, contemporary arrangements

+ The way the choir sing "Emes" as they enter the chorus (high part)

+ The composition is top notch. Think Kel Hakavod from the last album, but better

+ Killer electric guitar strumming and solos… and no horn instruments (B'H)

+ Eerie, yet exciting middle part at 3:00

- No Aryeh Kunstler guest vocals

Ki Er'eh

+ Hands down, best slow song on the album

+ Child vocalist, CJ Glicksman

+ Simcha Sussman's vocals after the child vocals

+ Great harmonies throughout

+ Good length for a Jewish music slow song

Mi Chamocha

+ The NEW Yufyafisa

+ Addictive and transcending song throughout

+ Beginning to end of song is flawless

+ Baruch Aryeh's vocals

+ Great ending displaying each vocalist

Ki Tov

+ Na na's at 0:55

+ Get's better second time around the song

+ Sounds like a Baruch Levine song

+ Short

- To happy-go-lucky, beach tune

- Chaim Block fades prematurely for me at 1:56

Shalom Rav

+ Typical Shalsheles composition

+ Amazing chorus

- Very slow refrain

Hinei Anochi

+ Typical shalsheles fast song, like V'nocho and V'haya. Still so good…

+ They only have one of these songs on the album

+ Great chorus

- Typical Shalsheles fast song, like V'nocho and V'haya. Still so headachey…

- Outdated music (i.e. horns are plentiful)

Mehaira

+ Pure and fluid song throughout

+ Simcha Sussman rocks this song

+ Shalsheles manages to recycle the same style tune from previous albums one more time

+ Harmony at 3:29

- Shalsheles manages to recycle the same style tune from previous albums one more time

Mi She'asah

+ Not Aryeh Kunstler arrangements, but still contemporary and fresh

+ Funky, yet addictive music

+ The chorus is out of this world. Different. Harmony filled. Refreshing.

+ Harmony at 4:05, such gooey cream filling goodness

+ Choir to end of the song is fantastic and different

+ Vocals during the choir's ending

Generations

+ Beautiful lyrics; heartwarming; tearjerking.

+ Fantastic arrangements and vocals.

+ Doesn't get interrupted in the middle by the message "this is a mostlymusic preview." :)

+ Shalsheles redeems Dreaming with a quality English composition.

+ "It's Generations & generations…." Love it.

- Would have loved to hear a child vocalist on this

(Original Post on JMR)

Unity Video is a must watch.

If you're a fan of Jewish music, then you have to see this video.



Participants in order of appearance:

Ken Burges, Dovid Gabay, Mendy Werdyger, Beri weber, Yeedle, Yossi Green, Yehudah Green, MBD, Benny Friedman, Aaron Razel, Lipa, Boruch Levine, Michoel Schnitzler, Shloime Taussig, Mendy Werzberger, Sruly Werdyger, Bentzi Marcus, Yossi Goldstein, Avi and Yossi Piamenta, Dovid Dachs, Shloime Gertner, Avrohom Fried, Yaakov Shwekey, Sparks Choir,Y-love, Yanky Lemmer, Gad Elbaz, Shloime Dachs, Ohad, Shira Choir, Describe, Yoni Zigelboum, Yitzchak Fuchs, Moshe Kravitsky, Avi Begun, Rivi Schwebel, Ari Klein, Shua Kessin, Dovid Stein, Michoel Pruzansky, C Lanzbom.

Written by MBD and Shea Mendelowitz
Additional lyrics by MBD and Moshe Kravitsky

Shalsheles 5 Review Coming Very Soon...

Things have been busy here. With a newborn, a new city and as the job search continues, I find that time is limited. I have been piecing together a review for Shalsheles 5 and it's almost done, it just needs some finishing touches.

Stay tuned for a unbiased, honest review of Shalsheles 5.

Time for a new year

You may have noticed I have been gone for a while. If you didn't, you probably don't read this blog. In that case, why am I even mentioning it if you're not reading this! It has been a crazy whirlwind from the summer until now, and the whirlwind isn't over, but the thick of the storm is.

Since the summer, I've had a baby boy, my first child. Helped run a day camp. Had some of the toughest college courses to date and now, moved to Chicago from New York. And now, the job hunt begins. Must...get...out...of...the...house. Plus, I have to make a whole new set of friends here in Chicago, because I don't know anyone. Finally, I'm stuck in the middle of golus-ville with my in-laws for the time being, where there are only a minyan of frum jews. Why? Because I have to find a parnassah before I find an apartment. Oy, lets hope Yom Kippur davening worked.

Back to music. Apparently Chicago is a little hefker this year for sukkos time. The only concert this sukkos is the chabad concert featuring Mendy and Sruly Werdyger. Really? That's the only concert in a huge city of frum yidden? Skokie is having there first ever simcha beis hashoeiva with hometown orchestra, Evan Shisea. I'm not sure what else is going on, because I'm not familiar with the area.

Shalsheles 5 is very very good. I'm going to try to find the time to write a review for it. Mizumen is definitely not for me, but I'm sure there are people out there who will appreciate the music and lyrics on that cd. Mendy Werdyger I'm not going to even touch, because I know that I don't appreciate that genre of music. I'm trying to stay away from the typical chassidishe music, because the horn instruments give me headaches.

I know that Michoel Pruzansky's third album should be out sometime this year. It's called MP3 (clever). Personally, I would like to here some more Aryeh Kunstler styled music out there. A little change of pace would be nice.

Stay with me here on this blog for unbiased reviews and less advertisement posts.

Shalsheles 5 first impressions

When I heard that the group stayed together, despite the fact that Simcha Sussman, whose in my mind, the top vocalist, moved to Eretz Yisrael, I was very pleased. Although, I would have like to have heard Shloime Kaufman as a new member of Shalsheles. That's fine, the album is still great!

Shalsheles still has the same music and they managed to twist it once more to sound new, yet familiar at the same time. The voices are very refreshing and the tunes are spiritually uplifting, unlike most music available today.

I like that they included Aryeh Kunstler into the mix of talented arrangers. I love the arrangements he did on his new album, Our Eyes Are On You. It was a great pick and a terrific way to branch out towards the alternative Jewish music genre, which I hope continues to grow.

My favorite part of this album is the lack of horn instruments. Unlike the majority of Jewish music, Shalsheles stays away from the overbearing noises of horn instruments. People, they are not meant to be abused. If I want to hear horns, I'll go to a wedding, keep my albums and my person listening clear. If you want to throw it on a few songs, fine. But horn instruments are not mean for the whole album. (Of course this is my opinion - the benefit of having a blog :D).

My favorite song as of now surprisingly enough is track 10, Mi She'asah. When I heard the preview, I thought it sounded kind of funky, but in this case, funky is good! I love the harmonies on this song and the different sound it brings to the album. I feel like I would normally hear this type of song on a Lev Tahor album, you know, with Schwebel singing "AHOY" in the background, but it's great to hear it on Shalsheles! The last minute and a half of this song is so cool with the added choir.

So far, I love the whole album, we'll see if some songs start to irk me over time, but right now I have Mi She'asah, Meheira and Ashrei Ish on playback.

Go listen to it for yourself! http://www.mostlymusic.com/shalsheles-volume-5-13327.html

This album is sure to be a classic!

Aryeh Kunstler "Our Eyes Are On You" Review

Here's my review of Aryeh Kunstler's "Our Eyes Are On You", which originally appeared on JMR.

For those of you who are new to the Alternative Jewish Music scene, Aryeh Kunstler is the king, in my opinion. Aryeh blends the styles of contemporary secular music and English lyrics with gorgeous pieces of Jewish music and Hebrew lyrics.

This is Kunstler’s second solo album, although it has the quality of a 4th or a 5th album. It’s no surprise, Kunstler comes from a musically gifted family. His father, Avi Kunstler, has albums available for purchase as well, and his brother Dani has the group V’havienu which Aryeh is a part of. Also, Aryeh can be found on the wedding circuit as a guitarist for the Neshoma orchestra and as a member of Yaakov Chesed, a 4 piece band headed by Jake Polansky.

Like I previously mentioned, expect great things from this album, it went above and beyond my expectations and a whole other world past “From the Depths”, his debut album.

I decided to do something different, I compared and contrasted this album with Aryeh’s other musical works. Enjoy!

Hashem Sifosei vs Oseh Shalom -
A mix of Hebrew and English lyrics, this song is not only a great intro song to get the blood pumping, but it has quality lyrics as well as some very cool Kunstler tweaks. The second time around, listen for how Kunstler sings the words “I long to say”, it’s moments like those that the Kunstler style and skill can be found and eaten up. He also throws in something I never get tired of hearing, a muffled/synthesized voice with light guitar strumming behind him, in the last minute of the song. Oseh Shalom was good, but it was not nearly as professional as this song is.

B’Shem Hashem vs Az Yashir -
This is a tough call for me, because Az Yashir was my favorite song on his first album. However, once again, the professionalism in the music and vocals can be found in this song more so. Not only that, but this song has more of a soft rock feel to it, and glorifies the soft rock genre. Aryeh adds so much feeling to this song by the mixture of “Yah’s” with the Hebrew lyrics. Toward the end of the song, there are some gorgeous background vocals as well, that should not be taken for granted.

Mi Chamocha vs The Radio? -
I discussed this song with my wife during one car ride. We both grew up listening to secular music, and we came to the conclusion that if one song were to be taken from this album to be played by the radio stations, this would be the right choice. It has a nice refrain, where it slowly builds you up to the climactic chorus which makes you feel as if you’re flying. All around, this song just screams good times. It’s not my favorite song, but it definitely one of the better songs on this album.

Nachamu vs B’lev Echad Single -
This song is very heartfelt, and could definitely touch anyone who has witnessed a tragedy or just feels the daily stress of this golus. This song does exactly what it preaches, it consoles you and gives you that extra lift. I was jogging back from the car repair shop, after having a sleepless night the night before due to my car breaking down in the middle of nowhere while coming back home from a wedding and this song, once it got to the second time through, turned my jog into a run where I felt the stress and over tiredness fading from me and a second (or perhaps third) wind kicked in. This song really gave me a boost and I think it could do the same for anyone. It has the same feel as B’lev Echad, the single that was done for the Merkaz Harav attacks. Very emotional, very good.

Modim vs Modeh Ani -
Both Modim and Modeh Ani (first album) are about thanking our creator. This song was done way better though. Modeh Ani was less professional and the overall tune was not as good as this one. Everytime I hear this song, it makes me want to play the air drums… in other words I start mimicking the drums in the song by slamming on anything with my hands… that reminds me, I have to go buy a new vase…woops.

Veliyerushalayim vs V’havienu albums
We have more of a V’havienu feel to this song than anything else. Most people know that V’havienu (Dani & Aryeh Kunstler) are my favorite albums, so how could I not love this song? It’s so soothing and has so much hartz in the song. The best part is, the vocals are just icing on the cake, it’s the musical arrangements in this song that are a thing of beauty. I would love to hear an instrumental version of this song.

Gam vs rock songs in general
Gam is a crazy awesome rock song. It has the same style as Mi Chamocha, where it has a slower refrain and a rocking chorus that literally rocks (no pun intended). There’s not a lot to write about it, but just know that this song is so good, it speaks for itself.

Lishuasicha vs Shimshon?
This is such an interesting song, I don’t really know what to think. It’s a fast rock styled song with a dark feel to it. It’s about the story of Shimshon (Samson) being captured by the Plishtim and he’s bound to the two pillars with his eyes gouged out. I guess it’s uplifting that Shimshon got one more burst of strength to destroy the plishtim, but at the same time, it feels kind of strange listening to these lyrics with this music behind it. It’s by no means a bad song, it has great arrangements, I’m just confused.

VaAnachnu Lo Naida vs Im Eshkacheich
You’ve found it! This is my favorite song, and I’m surprised he didn’t call this song “Our eyes are on you”, for this is the song you’ll find those lyrics in, if you were looking for them like I was. From start to finish, this song feels like Im Eshkacheich from the first album mixed with some V’havienu song , but like 20x better. LISTEN TO THIS SONG, you will not regret it.

Split the Sea vs my head
What is this? It’s not my style, but there was definitely a lot of work put into this song, so there’s no way I can bash this. I’m sure there will be lots of people who love this song, but it’s not my genre.

Yizkerem vs depression
I feel like this song could have been composed on tisha b’av after watching one of those Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation videos. The song never really uplifts you, it starts with a depressing refrain and an leads into an eerie chorus. From the lyrics, it’s clear that the song is about the holocaust and how we should never forget it even as we come closer to the time when the last survivor will pass on to the next world. It’s an appropriate way to end an album since we are in golus and we really shouldn’t feel true joy until the final redemption.

Overall, I loved this album. The last 2 songs weren’t my favorite, but there was definitely a lot of work put into them. This was definitely worth the delays and the wait, Aryeh Kunstler went up a whole level in professionalism in my head, and he will in yours too. BUY IT!

FREE song from Shalsheles!

Shalsheles!!!!! I'm so glad to hear that Simcha Sussman is on this song. I'm not sure if he will be on the next album, but I'm happy he is on this song!

Shalsheles is back in the studio and looking forward to bringing you an all new album, very soon! In the meantime please enjoy this exclusive all new track entitled "Generations" originally recorded for Bonei Olam. This is a free download brought to you by MostlyMusic.com. This is only the second English song ever recorded by Shalsheles. The song was composed by Yitzchok Rosenthal, arranged by Ron Tichon with lyrics by Estie Zelcer. Shalsheles will be proudly distributed exclusively by Aderet music. Look out for the next all new Shalsheles album sometime around Sept 2010 and an all new Shalsheles Jr. March 2011. To stay updated on all the newest and upcoming releases follow us on Twitter at MostlyMusicNews.

Download the lyrics here.

via Mostlymusic.com

It's been a while + Recent Releases

Life happens... Life does things that prevent you from doing the things you love and sometimes there's no excuse, sometimes I was just lazy. Whatever the reason is, I haven't posted in a while. I've been busy or lazy and I've mainly focused on writing reviews, one which will appear this week on JMR (Jewishmusicreport.com). Either way, I'm back! Not like I used to be, but I hope to get some more postings up.

In other news, here are the recent releases...

Shimon Craimer (Nashir Beyachad) -

This album sounds very different than the mainstream Jewish music album, which in my opinion is good. I plan to write a review on it, and to tell you the truth, I don't know if it's going to be me raving about how good it is, or my concerns with it (probably, because I haven't gotten the album yet).

Lipa Schmeltzer (Meimka DeLipa) -

I don't know what to think about this album, I've never been a huge fan of Lipa's music, mostly because of the language barrier (I can't speak or understand Yiddish), and subsequently, I can't sing these songs, because I can't get the words down. However, I can not deny Lipa's talent. He's like a bundle of energy and talent being released everywhere! 16 songs seems like too much and I've been told that it would have been better if they just cut out some songs and left you with 10-12 solid songs. I haven't bought this album yet, and I'm not sure if I will, but if someone wants to send me the album to review, by all means :). I will definitely give a real, unbiased review.

Aryeh Kunstler (Our Eyes Are On You) -

I actually bought this album and I can't get enough of it. Funny thing is, I'm not usually a fan of alternative Jewish music, but Kunstler's talent is undeniable. Look for my review coming soon on JMR. The album is due out May 31st, today!

Miami Boys Choir (Ultimate Miami) -

This is a good pickup for anyone who hasn't purchased the Miami albums over the years. I would have preferred Miami hits over the course of history, rather than Miami English songs. However, they still had some great English songs. I'm probably not going to buy this album, only because I already own the entire Miami Boys Choir collection, give or take a few. I can live without the digitally remastered versions.

There was also a chassidshe album by the Shira Choir (which includes Beri Weber), not exactly my genre, so I will likely not pick it up. Also, the Moshav Band released a new album, also not my genre, and I will not be picking it up. Sandy Shmuely released a new album as well, but it doesn't have enough songs on it for me for the $15 price. Also, it's not exactly to my taste as well. But I wanted to you to know that these albums are available and you may like them! Click on the links and have a listen.

See you later!

JMDerech.

Here's what to expect!

Lag Baomer is here and here's what to expect in the coming weeks/months!

Miami Ultimate (English collection) is due out.

Aryeh Kunstler - Our Eyes or Are On You - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zmr6An1W-e4

Shimon Craimer 2

Lipa's new album

Don't miss the concerts scattered around the U.S. today! I will... I have a wedding to attend. But there's gonna be music there!

Have fun!

Can we achieve the same?

Lag Baomer is almost here. Sunday for those of you who are out of touch. I have been doing a lot of listening to acapella over the course of s'fira so far and let me tell you, it gave me a real opportunity to listen to certain songs, mostly because the song selection isn't so huge for acapella. There's one song that really struck a chord and is beyond better than the average song out there in the JM industry.

That song is Sunshine in the Rain by Shloime Kauffman & A.K.A. Pella.

From the beginning until the end, this song sends tingles throughout your chest, warming you heart to its core. The harmonies; the "music"; the vocals; the everything; it just beats every acapella song out there and very possibly, every English song in JM. I know Journeys lovers will disagree, but this song has such emotion that I've never had any other song bring out before.

If you haven't picked up Shloime Kauffman's debut album yet, you're slightly drunk and definitely missing out. That and A.K.A. Pella Platinum are unbelievable. Both feature Sunshine in the Rain.

A.K.A. Pella Platinum

Shloime Kauffman - Avodas Tzedaka (Music)

Albums Coming Soon...

Shades of Green II - Yossi Green is back with another mix of his hit songs and possibly some new ones. (Summer Time)

Our Eyes Are On You - Aryeh Kunstler is finally here with a follow up album to his hit debut album. (Lag B'aomer Time)

Shimon Craimer - His 2nd album is almost here and it looks promising! Can't wait to hear what he has in store for us! (Lag B'aomer Time)

Journal Entry 3: Absence

I do apologize to my readers for my lack of posts, but let's face it... there's nothing to post about right now. Sure, I can post random videos and pictures like other blogs or sites, but why should you have to see them here too?

I want new material!

I don't want another picture of some random singer or a video of a chassunah filmed with a cheapy camera! Can you hear that? I want some news... Sadly, there's not much news happening.

I'm going to post 2 more free acapella songs soon, so look forward to that. Other than that, I'll be here scratching my sefira beard and playing A.K.A. Pella Platinum...

sigh...

2 Acapella songs from Ari Goldwag

Ari Goldwag has released on Aderet's website, mostlymusic.com, 2 songs for a dollar each.

The first song is the hit song Ogil from Sheves Achim, with the original vocals, with some backup acapella by Goldwag as a substitute for the music.

The second song is Goldwag and his son Moshe Dov singing Aleinu, a song from his Lishuascha Kivinu album.

Check em out!

Acapella Playlist Returns

CLICK TO ENLARGE

I had to revamp my playlist with updated songs from last years playlist. I want to know what you have on your playlist. Leave it in a message in the comments section. :)

Sefira Free Downloads - All at once!

You asked for it, and now you got it!

I combined all the free songs from the sefira list into one downloadable file.

Enjoy! - DOWNLOAD FILE

Not yet on the file are 4 new free sefira songs! (Thanks to Yaakov W.)

Umacha by A.K.A. Pella

Vezakeni by Yehoshua Fried

Moshiach by Kumt Shoin

Menorah by Meydad Tasa

AKA Pella 4 - First Impressions and Sampler

A.K.A. Pella 4 took be my surprise. I liked their second album, but I didn't like the song choice so much. The first was good to and the third I never bought. The 4th one surpasses all of the other albums combined. This is by far, the best acapella album released to date.

This album is oozing with stars! Dovid Gabay, Mo Kiss, Shloime Kauffman, Beri Weber, Yossi Green, Shalsheles Jr., Kol Ish, and newcomer Simcha Leiner. I can't get over how good this album is!

My favorite song so far is Yovoh. Yes, that's the Miami Boys Choir's Yovoh sung by the AKA Pella guys. Listen to the sampler below and get ready for a review in the coming week or so.

About to enter that time of year...

It's erev second days of Pesach and I have to get to shul within the next twenty minutes. I got ready extra early this time, just so I could get some quality listening time before I have to switch into acapella mode.

What have I listened to so far (which means that I love these songs the most at the moment)?

Yehuda - Generations of Song : Lechu Neranina

Menucha 2: Shiru Lashem

I'm sure I'll get a couple more songs in, however, I must say that I'm looking forward to A.K.A. Pella 4's release (which will probably be on repeat), as well as Ultimate Miami around Lag Baomer time.

As usual, I will be putting together a acapella playlist and feel free to shares yours as well. Also, be sure to check the S'fira list on the top of this website for all (I think) the acapella albums available.

Until next time, Chag Kasher V'sameach and be well!

And I did not forget that I owe you guys a Oorah 2010 review. It will come! :)

JMDerech

Journal Entry 2: Dual Roles

You ever wonder why you were put in certain situations and then all of a sudden it just hits you like a ton of bricks?

It took me a little while to catch on, but in the end I managed to learn something very disturbing that hit me in the gut.

I'll try to catch you up.

So I was a choir director for an orthdox school, from which I developed a mentor type of relationship with the boys in my choir. Therefore, I could tell when something was amiss with one of them. It was Friday night and maariv was being said in the shul but I had to be outside of the shul in the hallway because there were no seats left (no I was not late, I gave up my seat for an elderly man). When I got out there, what caught my attention hurt me. A number of boys were standing outside the shul chatting. Boys who were old enough to daven and surely knew how to, yet they stood "shmoozing" as if they were at a friends house, completely neglecting the davening. I nudged one of the boys and asked him if he would say the paragraph "Vayichulu" with me and he did without looking in. He knew it "by heart". I then asked him if he knew what the paragraph meant, he replied in the affirmative, but when I asked him if he could translate it for me, he said to me "translate? I don't do English".

Ouch. Could it be? Could it be that there's not a focus on making sure the children understand what they are saying?

And we wonder why so many children/adolescents lose their identity? Now that I think of it, I was not given an explanation of the davening as well. It was something I had to self-teach myself and I struggle with the explanation to many paragraphs to this very day!

Think about it, he's davening three times a day out of habit and he doesn't know what he's saying the whole time? No wonder he's not interested in davening and would rather chat with his friends!

It was like the whole world was crashing in on me at once, like one big understanding swept over me. I'm sure the rebbeim do their best, but if they don't or even if they do, the chinuch (education) has to continue at home or these kids just won't care. Think about how many adults you see at shul who are on their blackberry's or are fiddling with something. If adults cant concentrate on their davening (which may be because they don't understand the significance) then with children, all the more so!

Something is very very wrong with this picture...

I'm sure the gedolim are aware of such situations, there are just so many distractions out there now that it's nearly impossible to keep one interested in davening. Even if it's only a half hour...

So here's the big question. Why is this on a music blog? What am I ranting about?

I found a way that to connect myself to the pesukim (verses) of the siddur (prayer book). Through song of course! So many contemporary songs take famous pesukim and use them as songs. Sure, they don't really make sense most of the time with the tune but they are catchy! For instance, Lecha Hashem Hagedula from The Chevra doesn't fit with the meaning of the words at all. I'm pretty sure G-d doesn't need us praising his great powers in the style of a rock song. However, the song is catchy and it led me to the next step, which was to find the meaning. So now, whenever that phrase is mentioned in davening (prayers) I think of the song, which in turn leads me to thinking about the meaning of the verse, which subsequently lead to a more inspirational davening for myself.

So next time you hear a song, open up the booklet that came with the album and most of the time it says the source of the passuk. Find that passuk and read the meaning and every subsequent time you read that passuk it will give you a better understanding of your religion and ultimately bring you closer to G-d. Which in my opinion, is a good place to be. :)

Miami & YBC

There were two huge concerts that occurred tonight. They featured the two biggest boys choirs out there in Jewish music (although, how many choirs do we have already?).

The first concert, which was in Brookyln, is the Miami Boys choir with Shloime Gertner who recently released his second album, "Say Asay". Also, new singing sensation, Yoni Zigelboum will be featured, whom I assume will open up the show, much like Benny Friedman, who was the new singing sensation last year opened that show. Will Zigelboum reach the heights that Friedman did this year? Only time will tell. Also featured at this concert is a special presentation of "Ultimate Miami" a.k.a. Miami English songs on one album. If they are old songs, I sure hope they are rerecorded for the album and they aren't just thrown together as a mix. It sounds like a great show, but you never know! Last year there was the surprise of Begun losing his voice and the kids took over his singing roles, which was quite amusing and actually a really fantastic show!

Drive up the Belt Parkway and down the Van Wyck Expressway to Queens and you'll find there the Yeshiva Boys Choir. At this show YBC will be singing songs from their latest album "Sh'moy" and some songs never sung in concert, which may mean that they learned choreography to an old song like Tehilas Hashem from YBC 1 and are now performing it in concert, or perhaps they are debuting new songs. They will be surrounded by other singers, such as Eli Gerstner and Menucha. They are also listing Yaakov Mordechai Gerstner as a special guest star. Menucha just released their 2nd album entitle Sh'ma Yisrael. Should also have been an interesting concert.

Let me know if you went to one and you enjoyed it or if you think one is better than the other.

All the best,
JMDerech

YU Maccabeats Album - Now Available!

These guys are phenomenal! In the fall of 2007, the YU (Yeshiva University) Acappella Group set out to showcase their university's latent cultural side. Though they didn't yet have their cool name (a play on YU's athletic clubs, the Maccabees) and stood pretty stiffly during their first few performances, these trailblazers cleared the way for the future of the performing arts at Yeshiva University. Committed to the philosophy of Torah u-Madda, the integration of traditional and secular wisdom, the Maccabeats perform an eclectic array of Jewish, American, and Israeli songs. Their trademark piece, arranged by musical director Julian Horowitz, is the epitome of this synthesis, combining some of the most beloved words of Jewish liturgy - Lecha Dodi - with Leonard Cohen's meaningful and melodic Hallelujah. The Maccabeats have performed in venues from New York's Madison Square Garden to Orlando, Florida (and everywhere in between), and are available to enhance a special occasion, or bring a message of Jewish life to your community. NOTE: No musical instruments were used in the production of this album. Certain sounds were produced using the human voice and may sound like real musical instruments.

8th Day - Now I'm a fan!

I was always skeptical when it came to the group 8th day (Bentzy & Shmuel Marcus). However, with the new Oorah CD, I have become an 8th day convert. To tell you the truth, I never even gave them a chance, and I'm at fault. I never made much of the brothers from out of L.A. I just figured they were amateurs and it wasn't worth a listen. Let me tell you something, boy was I wrong!

It's Shabbos Now, their song on the new Oorah album is so catchy, I'm just walking around humming the tune and singing "aye yai yai na na na num". Don't know what I'm talking about? Listen to the song above from the Oorah album. You won't regret it!

Check them out at my8thday.com!

Adam Lo Nivra - L'hisaneig B'Mountaindale Album

This is one of the songs on the album to benefit the Yeshiva of Mountaindale.

The artists performing on "Adam lo nivra" are Baruch Naftel, Chaim Felder, and Hillel Kapnick.

Kol Ish - Free Acapella Downloads

Kol Ish, a hit acapella group out of the Chicago area has given us the freedom to release one of their heart-warming songs from their "Before Eve" album, entitled "V'alu". Download it, put it on your mp3 player and let it sooth your ears!

Don't forget to check out their website, kolish.net for booking info, free samples and more!

P.S. I've been informed that there is another full song you can hear on their site - Ha'azinu

Thanks to Y.W. for pointing that out.

My latest from JMR

Audio Report on Eli Gerstner - http://jewishmusicreport.com/?p=4658

Audio Review on Menucha 2 - http://jewishmusicreport.com/?p=4985

Seems to have a Gerstner theme, I know.

Enjoy!

Passion - Journal Entry 1

It's interesting, I went through the normal course of my day once again, which usually has some music playing in the background at random intervals. I listened to two albums today. Menucha 2 and Oorah 2010. There were some songs which really made me happy. I'm talking smile on my face, positive thinking, happy. I truly feel blessed that I have a passion for something. Although it is not the only thing I have a passion for, Jewish music really gets me going and is constantly flowing through my head.

I want to take that thought a step further.

To be passionate about something is so important. Many find passion in their work or their hobbies. If you can direct that drive, that passion towards learning - great! If you can direct that passion towards being with and taking care of your family - even better! The important thing is to find that passion and cling to it and build on it.

I was reading through the new Country Yossi magazine, which I picked up at the Judaica store yesterday. No, I did not go to the Judaica store just for a free magazine! I needed a new yarmulke :). Anyway, the magazine had an article on A.K.A Pella 4, entitled "Platinum Collection" (I think). I was reading how the author described how he loved certain songs, such as Yofyafisa and Anovim. I could tell he was excited about it and that got me excited!

Excitement and happiness is contagious; so is depression and sadness. You have to pick how you feel and how you react. Try to go into your day remembering that you're in control of your reactions and when that slap in the face hits you and you want to get down on yourself... remember that you're in control! For me, I think of a great song and that cheers me up. If that doesn't work, dig deeper! Think about your loved ones (and a good song while you are at it!) :)

Be well,

JMDerech

Battle of the Oorah winners

Well, of course they aren't really battling. But I want everyone to take a listen at the past 2 winners of Oorah's singing competition. 2009's winner Yonatan Shlagbaum & 2010's winner Eli Levin. They both have spectacular voices. The question is who do you love? Now, I think that Levin had a better song, a Baruch Levine composition, but song aside, whose voice just agrees with your eardrums!? It's a tough call for me, but I think... Ya, like I really was going to tell you :P.
Here are their songs below under their pictures. You decide!
(Please note: Don't judge it by the song, judge it by the voice)

Acapella Returns

I'm going to be posting my acapella list in anticipation of sefira on the top of this blog. See the top of the page.

First, here's the scoop on what's coming out this sefira (from what I know):

YU Acapella - Featuring (from what I heard): Bad day, Oleinu from Yehuda
A.K.A. Pella 4 - Featuring (from what I heard): V'hee Sheomda, Yofyafisa, V'zakeni.

Second, here's a track that Six 13 just put out as a sequel to their hit track Ne'ilah which featured popular secular songs.


Feel free to email me on any other new acapella albums coming out - jmderech@gmail.com

On Vacation

I'm taking a break for a week. Keep viewing my favorite blogs listed on the left hand side of the page for great JM info!

What's next:

Menucha 2 Audio Review

Oorah 2010 Review

What's out now:

Menucha 2: Sh'ma Yisrael

Shabbos with the Werdygers 2

Bridge of Generations

Yehuda Green: Yearning

Menucha 2!!!! Buy it now!

Click HERE to buy and to hear samples!

Menucha 2 - Shema Yisrael Preview

Sounds like Menucha to me! Nothing like Shlomo Schwed going crazy with his ridiculously high voice of his.

Here's the write up from JMR:

Not since The 8th Note has an album been “in the works” this long. Just like by 8th Note the anticipation has been huge and Menucha fans long wait will finally be over this week. Menucha’s follow up album Shema Yisroel will be out this week. The album features 10 brand new songs, composed and arranged by Eli Gerstner. The album also features guest appearances from Yaakov Mordechai Gerstner, The Yeshiva Boys Choir, Dovid Stein, and of course Eli Gerstner. You can the first audio now below and this CD will be available for purchase or download very shortly.

Yehuda Green Yearning - Now in stores!

Enjoy the attached Yehuda Green sampler and interview by Yossi Zweig of JewishInsights.com for VosIzNeias

http://www.vosizneias.com/50626/2010/03/04/new-york-vin-exclusive-video-yehuda-green-bringing-the-music-of-reb-shlomo-to-the-next-generation

http://www.mostlymusic.com/yearning-p-4400.html

Menucha 2 - Shema Yisrael

Here's the sad part - After 5 years since it was announced, we get 10 songs with a "unplugged" version of Shma as a "bonus". I'm still going to get this cd just because they are Menucha. I guess they figure they are going to sell anyway, why put more into it? Beats me! All I know is that I'm looking forward to seeing if this album is a hit or miss.

Menucha 2 is about to hit stores! Word is that the brand new CD will arrive in stores next week. Here is a sneak peek at the CD cover.

Track names and guest stars!! Check out all the amazing guest stars this CD will have! (Via JewishJukebox.com)

1 Sh’ma Yisroel
2 Shiru Lashem
3 Racheim Al Tzion (featuring Yaakov Mordechai Gerstner & The Yeshiva Boys Choir) 4 Kodosh (featuring Dovid Stein)
5 T’chias Hameisim
6 V’yizku
7 V’zakeinu (featurng Eli Gerstner)
8 Y’hi Hachodesh
9 Loolay
10 V’hagisa
11 Sh’ma Unplugged (Bonus Track)
Via JMR

Purim Videos

So with the title you'd think there'd be some videos from Purim, right? Wrong. I couldn't find anything worth posting. It may have had to do with the fact that the singers had a little alcohol in their system, as well as the musicians. Possibly it was the fact that the cameraman was intoxicated. Video after video of wobbly camera motions. I guess it really gives you the feeling that you're experiencing Purim first hand, like you're the actual drunk guy who's taking the video!

As for my Purim experience. I had a great time! I got to drink Saturday night, however I was forbade to drink on Sunday. One glass of wine was my Sunday experience. You see, I had to drive back home that night, so no drinks for me! That was fine with me because I got to see a bunch of tipsy/drunk guys being loud and festive from a sober point of view, which was quite amusing! I had an amazing Purim seuda at my brother's home, and heard some really inspirational divrei torah, and to top it off, my brothers and I had a nice kumzits together.

Purim, there's nothing like it! It's going to be the only holiday left after the geula and boy am I glad!

Video of the day - Simcha Leiner at a chuppah

Here's a video of Simcha Leiner, an up and rising star bound for greatness. The video quality isn't amazing, but the sound is worth it without the video.
Simcha trains under world reknown chazzan, Daniel Gildar, as you can hear from this video, his voice reaches heights that others dream of.



Hear more of Simcha at simchaleiner.com

Video of the day - Shaya Hecht

Here's a video clip of Shaya Hecht, a young, talented and soon to be married singer, who has been thrilling audiences at weddings and concerts. He sings Nishmas Kol Chai from Yehuda Green's album in this clip and many more clips can be found at shayahecht.com

Rumor has it, he will be performing a concert this Pesach at Meisner's Pesach Program.

Purim Medley - Amazing harmonies!

A Medley of Purim songs performed by Moshe Simcha Czapnik, Dovid Shalom Emeth and Shlomo Zalman Union at the Kollel LA dinner. Accompanied by Naftali Finkel, Conducted by Rabbi Heshy Maryles. Nice Harmonies throughout!

Mazel Tov to Aryeh Kunstler on his enagement

I guess we know know why Aryeh Kunstler has been having some delays in his album coming out ;). For good reasons! Mazel tov to the chassan and kallah, may they build a bayis ne'eman b'yisrael!

Onlysimchas listing - http://onlysimchas.com/v4/index.cfm/fuseaction:simcha.view/simchaid:90882