Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the songs are about spirituality and social justice. Although Matisyahu is a Hasidic Jew, the music cuts across religious affiliations and differences with a message of inspiration and hope that anyone will understand.
Families can talk about the many ways that spirituality and faith can be experienced and expressed. What do you think the message of this album is? What was your impression of Matisyahu before hearing this record? How did that change afterward?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kathi Kamen Goldmark
When you first hear about Matisyahu (the Hasidic Reggae Rapper) it's tempting to assume, well, a lot. Overhyped novelty act? Quirky opportunist? Who is this guy?
It turns out that Matisyahu is phenomenally talented, apparently genuine, and taking the pop music world by storm with edgy, powerful songs about spirituality and social justice, performed Reggae-style and backed by musicians with strong rock & roll chops.
There is no way in the world, you might think, this could possibly work. But guess what? Not only does it work, it's brilliant.
Matthew Miller, a Jewish kid from the suburbs who (according to his bio) got in regular trouble for being a cut-up in Hebrew School, became Matisyahu when he embraced Hasidic Judaism as a young man. This isn't such an unusual story...except for the part about also embracing reggae and hip-hop music, finding incredible rock musicians to work with, and combining all of these influences to create a unique, charming, and ecstatic sound all his own.
Song lyrics combine elements of prayer with messages of social justice, and come across as absolutely sincere, rather than gimmicky. The performances and production are so good, the singing so heartfelt and honest, that no matter what your faith or religious background you're bound to find this music interesting.
By mixing it up in such an unusual way, Matisyahu also manages to cut across religious affiliations and differences with a message of inspiration and hope that everyone who listens will be able to hear.
Rate It!
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ViolenceSome mildly violent imagery with a strong message of peace. |
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Social BehaviorPowerful songs about spirituality and social justice. |
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