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Shir Yedidot

Yosef Gutman Levitt

Label: Soul Song Records
Released: 2025
Views: 11,008

Tracks

Pode El Hashem; Ya Lach Nafshi; Nigun Gaaguim; Shir Yedidut 117; Azamer Bishvachin; Burning Fire; The Shepherd; Nigun Simcha; Shfal Ruach; Ve'Hacohanim; Shir Yedidut 259; Shir Yedidut 157.

Personnel

Album Description

In a deeply contemplative follow-up to his recent acclaimed releases, bassist and composer Yosef Gutman Levitt of Jerusalem returns with a spiritually resonant new album: "Shir Yedidot," available from Levitt's Soul Song Records. Leading an ensemble that includes renowned pianist Yonathan Avishai (ECM recording artist) and multi-instrumentalist Yagel Harush (kamancheh, oud, ney), Levitt explores traditional Jewish melodies and original compositions that bridge ancient traditions with contemporary expression.

"Shir Yedidot" (Songs of Friendship) creates an immersive sonic landscape where centuries-old nigunim (Hasidic wordless melodies) find new life through thoughtful arrangements and soulful performances. The album explores melodies that have been adorned with prayer and tears for two thousand years, studied with one of the tradition's most respected masters.

"Sometimes the ethnic character of traditional performances can overshadow the pure musical essence of these pieces," Levitt remarks. "This album takes a different path, neither stripping the music of its roots nor forcing it into a modern frame, but letting it find its own new space." Mixed by Stefano Amerio (known for his work with ECM Records), this release continues Levitt's exploration of soulful, meditative music following his acclaimed collaborations with Gilad Hekselman ("Why Ten?"), Peter Broderick ("River of Eden"), and other notable artists.