Portsmouth’s Greenvale Vineyards hosted a special night of music on Friday, December 13, when New Jersey’s Nefesh Mountain took the stage in a Newport Live show below a sell-out crowd.
Centered around the duo of Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg, Jewish Americans who blend traditional Hebrew language music into Americana themes, the band sounds straight out of Nashville.
Nefesh is a Hebrew word that translates roughly to “soul,” and indeed, this concert was soulful, with jam-band-like intensity on songs like “Race to Run,” and the Allman Brothers’ “Revival.” They can also dial it down, with warm harmonies coming through on tunes like “A Sparow’s Song.”
This was a unique holiday show, celebrating multiple belief systems through spirited music with a nod to traditional Jewish themes… done country. It’s a warm, beautiful sound that appeals to all listeners. Round it out with a couple of Woody Guthrie Hanukkah songs, and you’ve got a rare yet fulfilling playlist!
Established a decade ago, the band continues to evolve, digging deeper into the roots of Americana. They’ve recorded several albums, played leading festivals, and been touted by Rolling Stone magazine. Look for their new album, Beacons, in the new year. Check out the Nefesh Mountain website to learn more.
Meanwhile, check out some photos from WUN’s Ken Abrams below.
