BIOGRAPHY
What does liturgical text, and roots rock music have in common? Jewish Roots Rock
In my experience, music has always been an entry point to reflect on the complexities of life, and how they make us feel. It creates an environment sensitive to one's innermost emotional and spiritual self. By using liturgical texts with modern secular rhythms and tonality I hope to share my own awareness of my musical/spiritual self with others; to recognize, be thankful, and celebrate the splendors of life that music can bring.
Jewish Roots Rock takes its influences from American secular folk music, The Beatles and the British Invasion of the 1960's, the American Folk-Rock tradition of Bob Dylan, Crosby, Stills, Nash, And Young, Cat Stevens, Art-Rock such as The Doors, world music, and hip-hop. Along with these heroes are the Religious influences of Debbie Friedman and the Reform Youth Movement, Shlomo Carlebach, and recently performers like Dan Nichols and Josh Nelson.
Born in NYC, I spent many summers at Kutz camp in Warwick, NY. Jewish roots rock was everywhere and I was certainly influenced by the concept of music having an integral part of connecting with one's inner spiritual dialogue. Even when playing secular music, I am always aware of the relevance of the music to the moment.
album photo by Peter Freed
Read more...