Hasidic Jewish reggae performer Matisyahu shaved his beard, and announced this morning: "No more Chassidic reggae superstar." The New York-raised artist, who grew up a Reconstructionist Jew, is best known for mixing traditional Jewish themes with reggae, and sometimes rock and hip hop. But with his new look (which he posted photos of this morning along with his announcement), comes a new sound (though he's still going to Shul). His announcement read: more ›

Matisyahu refuses to allow himself to be a flash in the pan! The Hassidic gimmick is back for a New York Chanukah run, playing 8 shows that roughly coincide with the Jewish holiday. He will headline 4 shows a Webster Hall, then 4 at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, which are smaller venues than he has previously headlined in the city. Much like Yo La Tango's similar annual Chanukah series across the river at Maxwells, the openers for this run are often more noteworthy than the headliners. Matis will feature the likes of the Crystal Method and the Chanukah themed Guster side project, the Leevees to kick off some of the shows. Tickets are on sale now. Whether any of these $35 a ticket shows sell out will surely be a test to Matis's actual popularity, rather than his perceived half-hit wonderdom. more ›