WEST PALM BEACH, December 30, 2011–The Matisyahu show Thursday night at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach was not about Matis or about his beard – or lack thereof – or about his altercation with a photographer last week. It wasn’t really about Matisyahu at all. The show was about his music, his spirituality, and the mingling of the two.
Matis sat in front of the intimate crowd at the Dreyfoos hall accompanied only by accomplished guitarist Adam Weinberg, and simply sang.
Matisyahu and Adam Weinberg at the Kravis Center. Photo Credit: L. Ruth
Matisyahu has tremendous range, both in vocal ability and across musical genres. He mixed his traditional falsetto, deep bass rap, lighthearted ska, and a melodic reggae as a gift to the anxious audience. He thrilled the near-capacity crowd with favorites, such as One Day – although he skipped over the much anticipated and loudly requested King Without a Crown -- as well as lesser known songs, all beautifully performed.
Without gimmick or guile, Matisyahu closed his eyes and sang from his heart for two hours, deftly delivering his music.
Matisyahu at the Kravis Center. Photo Credit: L. Ruth
His stage show in many ways paralleled his recent life, in which he sheared his trademark Hassidic beard and emerged still Jewish, still pious, still a believer, but no longer hiding behind his facial hair.
At the start of the show, Matis appeared stiff, his eyes hidden behind dark glasses, wearing a tight-fitting jacket and separated from the crowd by a microphone stand. He progressively shed his costume – first the glasses, then the jacket, and then even the microphone stand. As he removed the layers of disguise, Matis became obviously more relaxed and animated, accompanying Mr. Weinberg with vocal beatboxing [http://youtu.be/kXXoZ69YfLY], tapping his hand and conversing with the crowd.
Matisyahu leaves the stage at the Kravis Center. Photo Credit: L. Ruth
The Kravis show featured a question and answer with the audience, where Matisyahu invited (three) fans on stage to ask questions. Again, Matis firmly established himself at the far end of the table from those in the industry who seek to cultivate a cult of personality. In fact, he sought to avoid it. He kindly demurred when fans tried to ask him personal questions that focus on the man rather than the message, and instead gave hugs and handshakes to adoring fans.
With or without facial hair, Matisyahu is a melodic virtuoso, whose shows woo whole families of multiple generations. His music appeals to all demographics -- all ages, all races, religions and cultures.
Matisyahu appears to be evolving, continuing his spiritual and musical journey. Whatever is next, he undoubtedly will continue to delight fans with his musical genius, harmonic vocals, and approachable style
Read more by Lisa at Life with Lisa at The Washington Times Communities.
Lisa has an undergraduate degree in International Relations from George Mason University and a graduate degree in Foreign Affairs from The University of Virginia. She spent 11 years as an analyst with the federal government. She is part owner of a research and analysis company, C2 Research, LLC, which specializes in complex research and analysis. Lisa is a senior analyst for LIGNET.COM, writing international political analysis. She is also a freelance writer, contributing to Donne Tempo Magazine, and regularly contributes to the Wall Street Transcript.
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