Album Notes

A compilation CD of American-Jewish “heart music”, both intimate & exuberant, that American Jews today
* pray to
* dance to
* meditate to
* seek healing to

"Open the Gates! has opened MY gates, and given me comfort, joy, and healing" — a listener

18 tracks by 18 different artists & groups:

Shlomo Carlebach * Debbie Friedman * Craig Taubman
Fabrangen Fiddlers * Diaspora Yeshiva Band * Liz Swados * Kenny G


“What is so refreshing about OPEN THE GATES!, apart from its eclectic variety, is that it is traditional & at the same time modern, musically, instrumentally, & lyrically.”
— Theodore Bikel

Jewish bluegrass & Jewish country / Jewish “world music”
English & Hebrew Hasidic chants / a cappella harmony singing


“Without exaggeration, I have listened to my CD for hours on end — tapping, humming, dancing, chanting, & praying. You really have opened the gates of this woman's heart — traditional words of many decades blended with different notes, instruments, & voices enhanced in a new way, a happier way to express my yearning to be closer to God.” — a listener


plus: “New Wings for Our Prayers” (liner notes) — reflections on Jewish soul music today

“There are intensely beautiful gems in this collection of Jewish songs.” — Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul & Mary)