Occur Goes Global - The Music of Israel

• by Melissa Bobbitt
• Sep 5, 2017

Blending secular, spiritual, Sephardic and sensational qualities, the music of Israel is all-encompassing. Whether the words are sung in Hebrew, English or Arabic, these songs speak to niche and widespread audiences. These artists will have you raising a glass and proclaiming “L’chaim!” To life!

REO

No, we’re not steering you toward your grandparents’ faves, REO Speedwagon. This “dream disco” outfit from Tel Aviv melds analog ingenuity with thoroughly modern mentality. Traces of HAIM and CSS crop up in addicting tracks such as “Ometz,” which translates to “Courage.” These gals have a lotta gusto, for sure. (Thanks to Haaretz for the suggestion!)

Yehu Yaron

An accomplished producer and guest double-bassist for numerous Israeli indie artists, Yehu Yaron has a Bryan Ferry thing going on for his solo work. A new album just hit the streets, and its preview singles would delight any fan of Roxy Music, New Pornographers or Tanlines. It’s lush yet hushed, like an evening tide under an LED moon.

Distorted Harmony

The most thrilling music is the kind where you don’t know what direction it’ll take from measure to measure. Distorted Harmony has been challenging the status quo since 2009 with their myriad styles. From jazz to electronica to prog metal, they cover the whole scope. DH might be what a supergroup featuring members of Incubus, Rush and Tool would sound like. Rock on! (Thank you to The Jerusalem Post for the recommendation.)

Chadash Kedem/Miqedem

Spirituality meets experimentalism in the guise of Chadash Kedem (“New Old”). Jamie Hilsden and his former Miquedem band mates change monikers every couple years to keep their material and perspective fresh—while addressing ancient Judaism and Arabic instrumentation. Sitar-like riffs paired with oud plunks and reverent vocals make for an uplifting listen. Check out the group’s 2016’s self-titled debut.

Yotam Avni

We love the sheer audacity of calling one’s music “Deeply Rooted Forward Thinking shit” (sic). But Avni’s got no reason to be coy—his techno expertise ranges from music journalism to proprietorship over one of Tel Aviv’s most bangin’ clubs. He plays fast and loose with genres, flip-flopping from cracking house to downright spookiness. We’re excited to hear what he moves forward with next. Tehillim is out now.