(TEANECK, NJ) -- Black Box Studios presents Israel Portnoy & Band on Thursday, May 30th, 2024 at Debonair Music Hall. Doors open at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm. Hailing from Manchester, UK, Israel Portnoy is more than just a musician – he's an artist who weaves soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics into every note he plays.
Born into a family where music and spirituality intersected, Israel's journey began in the sacred halls of the synagogue, where his voice first found its wings. But it was the eclectic sounds of legends like the Beatles, Eric Clapton, and Steely Dan, courtesy of BBC Radio 2, that ignited his passion for creating music that resonates across generations.
After two albums as half of “The Portnoy Brothers,” which included a collaboration with Alex Clare, a stint as Idan Raichel’s support act, and an impressive number of international performances, Israel’s focus shifted to several solo projects. His first, a 12-song concept album named “Facing Flames feat. Guilda,” was released on May 23, 2021, and commemorates the first anniversary of a forest fire that destroyed everything he owned in a village in central Israel where Portnoy's home and recording studio were based at the time. His most recent writing muse however, is his daughter who has provided non-stop song writing inspiration since becoming a dad. He is set to release the "Aura" EP in the summer, adding another chapter to his musical journey. Inspired by so many who came before him, his influences range from Clapton to Cohen and everything in between – so you’ll have a hard time putting his unique sound in a box.
Drawing inspiration from the ever-evolving landscape of life, Israel finds his muse in the simple joys of fatherhood, infusing his upcoming "Aura" EP with newfound depth and meaning. Influenced by the giants who came before him, from Clapton's blues to Cohen's introspective poetry, Israel's music defies categorization, inviting audiences on a journey of discovery with each note picked and lyric sung.
With his trademark dry British wit, an unwavering sincerity, and a voice that resonates with the soul, Israel Portnoy and his band of fine musicians promise more than just a concert – it's a spiritual experience that will linger in your heart long after the final encore.
Having moved from Israel to the NY/NJ area shortly before October 7th, Israel Portnoy couldn't have imagined that he would be busy playing (mostly voluntary) Israel solidarity evenings and leading unifying song-circles in support of his people. He returned to Israel on a solidarity mission along with his brother Mendy, (the other half of "the Portnoy Brothers") where they played music for soldiers on the Gaza border, the injured in hospitals, etc.
Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door (plus a one drink minimum) and are available now at www.debonairmusichall.com. Debonair Music Hall is located at 1409 Queen Anne Road in Teaneck, New Jersey. It is a live music venue that brings the best national touring acts and local bands to the area.
Black Box Studios is an event producer and the area's only collaborative performing arts school est. 2007. Recent or upcoming shows include Doom Dogs ft. Reeves Gabrels, comedian Elon Gold, Aryeh Kunstler, Keith Moon: The Real Me, J-Sketch Comedy, The Willie Nile Band, and James Maddock. For more information on this event and others at Debonair Music Hall from Black Box Studios, please contact eventsatblackbox@gmail.com.
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