Matisyahu
 

Okay, I know I'm sheltered and non-trendy and living in the Midwest, but...am I the last one to hear Matisyahu ?

This California jewboy has flat got it goin' on with his Hassidic Reggae vibe. Find "King Without a Crown" from "Live at Stubbs", and hear honest, spiritual reggae the likes of which hasn't been heard since Bob Marley.

I don't get impressed very often, but this guy is blowing me away.

I remember links going around awhile back touting a Jewish rapper, but that guy was young and tongue-in-cheek. I'd never heard of this guy, so fear not Els, you weren't the last one. :)

Eminem is quakin' in his boots.

:)

I don't think this guy is at all tongue in cheek, but his milieu is reggae, not rap (although there are some elements of a rap vocal style in his work, ja?). My first listening of "King" was like a kick in the musical 'nads for me. Incredibly well done, excellent energy, and all from a guy who was not even remotely steeped in the culture which usually produces the finest reggae. Heck, I doubt if he even uses the sacramental herb, mon.

i was actually thinking of picking up his album last week. i heard the music in a skate shop in the south side of the city and was pretty impressed myself. when i asked the guy behind the counter who it was he was listening to he got a sort of weird smile on his face when he told me. i didn't understand why until later when i looked up the artist. it sounds like really good stuff. how is the album?