Album Notes

Songwriters / performers Helene and Michael Kates turn their talents to Jewish music as The Baal Shem Tones with this much-anticipated debut album.

Helene Kates: "When I was three years old I made my first recording - 'Honey Bun' - at an amusement park in one of those little 'make your own record for 50 cents' booths. I guess that's when I got hooked. I didn't stop singing after that, much to the chagrin of my brother, as I sang out the names of every store that we passed whenever we got in the car.

"It's been a long road with lots of bumps and detours that took me away from my deepest passion, but (thank G-d) has led me back to it with my life-long partner - my husband Michael. This CD is more than a collection of great music to me. It is a prayer. It holds my longing for a world filled with song, the type of song that melts away the barriers between us all. When we blend our voices together with the understanding that we may travel different paths and live in many different ways all over the world, we are held to each other with bonds that transcend all time."

Michael Kates: "I have to follow THAT??"

See what others have to say about The Baal Shem Tones:

"The Baal Shem Tones bring a new unique and holy light to the world of Jewish music. The combination of voices is moving and unforgettable." - Neshama Carlebach

"The Baal Shem Tones have created a CD with many songs you will want to learn and hear over and over again... a first-rate product with melodies ranging from infectious to haunting... Helene has such a soothing, pure and pleasant voice that you don't want her to stop singing. When their daughter, Sarah, sings with her Mom, it is angelic bliss... Michael and Helene have created a beautiful new collection of music." - Judy Caplan-Ginsburgh

"Stamford is still on a high from your incredible concert. Wherever I go women are commenting on how inspiring & fantastic the evening was, and how those singers had such a strength, such a power! Thank you for playing such a major part in inspiring our community." - Rebbetzin Leah Shemtov, Stamford CT

"You have done a tremendous thing with your CD. The material is beautifully presented and shows great attention to production detail. I appreciate being asked to participate in such high quality work. Congratulations and a hearty mazel tov to you all. Brilliant stuff!" - John Catchings, Nashville Symphony solo cellist

"She's got a great voice. Beautiful! What language is that?" - Chuck Ainlay, Grammy-winning Producer