Matisyahu Hold the Fire
There’s being inspired, and then there’s being called. Matisyahu’s latest EP Hold the Fire is more the latter, as much of the album came from dreams, and a desire to deliver a message of hope and encouragement, sharing with listeners to keep their own fires burning.
That’s what the first track “Fireproof” is all about. Infused with reggae and hip-hop grooves, “Fireproof ” balances humility with the creative inner fire, one quite literal in this sense, as it was inspired by a dream Matisyahu had full of Old Testament symbolism. “Fireproof” shares a message of persevering through times of strife and staying grateful along the way. It couldn’t be more prescient, especially considering what’s going on in Israel today, a conflict Matisyahu does not shy away from, as he just made a trip to Tel Aviv to express solidarity and make a call for hostage return during the Hamas war.
Matisyahu, whose real name is Matthew Paul Miller, has now released eight studio albums in his 20-plus career, which really took off with his breakthrough single “King Without a Crown” and his gold-certified 2005 album Live at Stubb’s in Austin, Texas, making his unique reggae-rock sound and phenomenal beatboxing skills a worldwide sensation.
Matisyahu has gone through many transformations since then. He grew up as a Reconstructionist Jew in White Plains, New York, where he attended a Hebrew school, but by his teen years he rebelled and sought after other kinds of spiritual experiences in a quest for meaning and purpose. He found himself drawn to the jam band culture – largely Phish – where he became acquainted with a new form of expression, one that has inspired his own music. Through the years, Matisyahu has maintained his faith and – while developing his hip-hop, alternative rock and reggae style – has also studied the Torah extensively and remains close to his faith, often referencing it in his music. This is the case with so many of his songs, such as “Jerusalem.” He also often shares messages of peace in hopeful anthems such as “One Day,” the song he is most recognized for today.
To release on Feb. 2 via Matisyahu’s own Fallen Sparks Records, Hold the Fire stays close to Matisyahu’s spiritual roots. “Fireproof” sets the tone, and is followed by “End of the World,” an inspirational tune about overcoming the obstacles that come our way in the cycle of life: “Bridges may burn/And tables may turn/Don’t forget your worth/Prepare for diversions.”
Matisyahu knows this all too well, especially as someone unafraid to speak his truth. He’s overcome much adversity and anti-semitism, and he’s also overcome success, which comes with its own demons. “Fool’s Gold” is all about how Matisyahu found a “sound kingdom,” one that has caught on, bringing with it the trials of fame: “Some people lift you up on a pedestal/They make you feel incredible/It’s like I had an edible/Delectable treats when they come with the beats I’m in heaven y’all.” Matisyahu also reminds himself – and others – to keep your feet on solid ground because “even a fighter could fall from the heights for a fool’s fool’s gold.”
Like Bob Marley, Matisyahu has a nice balance of social issues, spirituality and romance. “Love Supplier” may be my favorite track on the album. It’s a song I would recommend for any honeymoon, or anniversary celebration. It’s catchy, relatable and sweet, and it’s close to impossible not to sing along at the end.
I can’t think of another five-song EP that feels so much like an album. The final track, “Lifeline,” serves as a call for unity, reminding us that we are all in this together, and it’s up to us to “hold the fire” and keep the positive vibes going. It’s also an important reminder to slow down and take things as they come: “It’s my lifetime/We don’t gotta rush tonight/I just wanna catch a vibe.”
I strongly recommend you catch this vibe on Feb. 2 and keep the fire burning.
Hold the Fire was produced by Ben Antelis (“Fireproof” and “Love Supplier”), Luke Atlas (“End of the World”), Nate Monschein, Spencer Hattendorf, Jhevere Reynold (“Fool’s Gold”) and Brooklyn-based producer Killers to Lovers (“Lifeline”). Co-writers on the album include Antelis, Allen Jonathan Kozak, Stefan Lit (“Fireproof”), Sircharles Coffey, Atlas (“End of the World”), Antelis, Nick Sadler (“Love Supplier”) and RJ Notez, Jheverer Reynolds and Kenny Sharp (“Lifeline”).
For more info on Matisyahu, his tour or to purchase the album, go here.
Hold the Fire will also be available wherever you stream your music.
