Tomer Yeshayahu
Instagram @tomer_yeshayahu
Tomer Yeshayahu is a 36-year-old veteran of the Israeli indie folk scene who's been promoting his new Hebrew-language album, released in March. Its title translates to In Conversations with Myself.
I immediately checked it out on Spotify, and my mind was blown. Lush arrangements, echo-soaked production, and ethereal vocals make this a slow-burning album that rewards repeat listens.
Yeshayahu's guitar and bouzouki playing harken back to the surfy Greek and Middle Eastern influences introduced to Israel in the 1960s by artists like Aris San. After a few listens, you'll also catch hints of Paul Simon and late-'60s Dylan woven throughout the songs.
The standout tracks on the album are When I Was in the Garden of Eden and Father, How Can I Speak the Truth (titles translated from Hebrew). Melodic hooks and layered, wall-of-sound production draw you in, while Yeshayahu's timeless vocals wash over you. There are also a couple of soulful instrumentals in the mix, including Tune, which could easily have been featured in a Spaghetti Western film.
This is an album that flows organically from track to track and is best experienced from beginning to end. Give it the time and attention it deserves, and the full sonic journey will reveal itself.
Catch him at Barby in Yafo on June 9 alongside the legendary Ehud Banai. It's guaranteed to be a spiritual experience.
At a Glance
Artist: Tomer Yeshayahu
Location: Israel
Category: Culture
Sounds Like: Greek and Middle Eastern folk influences filtered through indie rock, with echoes of Paul Simon and late-'60s Dylan.
Start With: When I Was in the Garden of Eden and Father, How Can I Speak the Truth (titles translated from Hebrew)
Why He’s On the List: Because after the first listen, we immediately hit play again (and again, then bought tix for the concert)
Listen: Spotify
Follow: Instagram
THE ALBUM WE COULDN’T STOP PLAYING.
Instagram @tomer_yeshayahu
ONE OF THE MOST DISTINCTIVE VOICES IN ISRAELI INDIE FOLK.
Instagram @tomer_yeshayahu