Matisyahu
Shattered

Review By Matt Conner

Too much is made of Matisyahu’s culture, religion and dress. Of course, given the Hasidic Jew’s curly black locks and traditional garb, it’s hard not to focus on such rare aesthetics. But to do so is to miss the true beauty of his music — a mind-blowing mix of reggae, hip-hop and rock. The Shattered EP features four songs that preview 2009’s upcoming LP, Light. “Smash Lies” explodes from the outset as it’s a stellar production that rivals any hip-hop track of 2008. “So Hi, So Lo” features a SoCal chorus a la Red Hot Chili Peppers, but ultimately doesn’t ride such waves for long, instead giving way to a harsher guitar riff and a Citizen Cope delivery through the verse.

“Two Child One Drop” shines the brightest with lyrics such as “I’m runnin’ on empty/I’m runnin’ in this space ’til I reach the sea/My heart burns up inside of me/Burned and charred in this desert heat.” “I Will Be Light” is a perfectly titled, relaxing tune incorporating acoustic guitar and light cymbal work. Matisyahu sings the title line casually alongside tribal chants and swelling strings. In the end, it’s a reminder of Matisyahu’s brilliance and serves as the perfect bridge into his upcoming full-length, due in 2009.