"Shfuim" by Shlomo Artzi

"Shfuim" (Sane)

Hed Arzi/2007

www.shlomoartzi.com (in Hebrew)

A perfect example of why music is a universal language, Israeli folk artist Shlomo Artzi.

Shlomo was born on a Kibbutz in Israel in 1949 to parents who had survived the recent Holocaust. Shlomo began playing guitar at age 12 and writing music at 16. His songs are about love, life, and the small things; dance as a symbol for life and vitality are frequent themes in his music.

Arzti is known for his very popular marathon performances which last over three hours long. This multi platinum selling artist has sold more albums than any artist in Israel.

This Dylanesque folk singers music is nothing like the tradition song "Hava Nagila" that most people associate with Israel or "Jewish music" and on his latest album the first in five years "Shfuim" (meaning Sane) it is easy to see why he is such a popular artist. A talented performer Artzi's music is unforgettable, it has a tendency to stick in your head.

The music of Shlomo Artzi is a perfect example of where understanding of the lyrics is not required; only an appreciation for his voice and the multi layered music that reaches down into your soul.