Legendary GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter Matisyahu released his latest album, Ancient Child, on October 3rd via Soundon. This eighth full-length for the reggae artist album features LAIVY and Duvbear, Matisyahu’s eldest and youngest sons, which shows brilliance runs in the family. In essence, Ancient Child is a prayer for strength today — and for generations to come.
Past events echo in the present; we must hear and heed these lessons for a hopeful future.
Ancient Child reaches back in time before barreling into a future sense, all in search of infinite divine light and human redemption. On the 12-song collection, Matisyahu finds himself reconnecting with his Jewish roots and spirituality in a world post-October 7th, 2023 attacks in Israel by Hamas and several other Palestinian militant groups during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah. Ancient Child questions history, identity, and destiny for humanity to get to such a devastating level of hatred towards one another.
Matisyahu notes: “‘Son Come Up’ is the first song conceived when I started writing for the album, Ancient Child — and fittingly so. At the time, I didn’t know the name of the album, but I had been circling around this concept for 20 years… since I started learning Kabbala and Chassidut. My oldest son, Laivy, is also 20 and his younger brother, Duvbear, have both started their music careers and have left the nest. As they move through dangerous situations, I pray for them to rise like the sun and shine their lights into the world. The song ‘Son Come Up’ becomes a prayer to the next generation to move us into a time of peace.”
The track “Pro-cess” includes traditional Matisyahu-style flow with a modern twist.
In contrast, “Anxiety (featuring BLP Kosher)” becomes more vigilant and powerful, with freeing vocals, sending listeners flying. The riddim and beats will set you free. Going deeper into the album, “Sound Foundation” has beautiful beats that emit hope around melodic lyrics, while “Crosswinds” creates a smokey ambiance with fiery, passionate vocals. You can almost feel Matisyahu invoking the knowledge and powerful resilience of his ancestors. LAIVY brings the gusto in the aforermentioned “Son Come Up”, rising into the track with conviction and mesmerizing rhythm.
The powerful duo of son and father bring the combination of two forces. The father-son reggae-meets-afrobeat team is a great symbol of generational strength in a world full of fear and animosity. “Rockets” then brings Duvbear into the mix as another beautiful compilation between son and father, before “Find A Way” blends raps and rhymes to push the perseverance narrative forward. “Smoke And Mirrors” speaks volumes to Matisyahu’s legacy, while “Wake Up” stands as a call to action for listeners. The time has come to rise out of the ashes of the new world, like a phoenix ready to soar through the sky once more. “Balance” then brings just that — balance. It’s soothing with uplifting melodies to counter battle cries of the previous track. To close the album, Matisyahu teams with his youngest again in “Rockin Tempos”, an ode to Jewish culture.
Matisyahu embracing activism in his music paves the way for more acceptance for all. The world continues to admire his tenacity, as well as his unending fortitude and artistry. Ancient Child is unlike anything Matisyahu has ever written — it’s meant for change, not just music.
Matisyahu – “Anxiety”, feat. BLP Kosher
Track listing:
- Pro-cess
- Anxiety, feat. BLP Kosher
- Sound Foundation
- Crosswings
- Son Come Up, feat. LAIVY
- Rockets, feat. Duvbear
- Find A Way
- Smoke & Mirrors
- Wake Up
- Balance
- Ritual
- Rockin Tempos, feat. Duvbear
Stream ‘Ancient Child’ album:
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Disclaimer: All views presented in this album review are those of the reviewer and not necessarily those of Top Shelf Music.
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