Interview with Matisyahu Ed Moller and Eric Nielsen 4.21.9

At what point in your life did your faith reveal itself to you? Obviously your spirituality is a big part of what you do.  
I have always remembered believing in God. When I was 16 went into Colorado mountains on a backpacking trip and I remember starting to get in touch with a certain void or vacant feeling. Later that year I went to Israel and began to sense the eternal ancientness of the Jewish people and God.

Can you elaborate on how you write songs/lyrics with this in mind?
Music and song is the expression of what I am. There is no such thing as keeping it in mind, it just is. Ups, downs, faith, pain, struggle, joy. It is all God. Music is the expression of it all wrapped up and smeared together.
 
What is the recording process like for you?  Are there any tricks or secrets you care to reveal?
Recording is about emotion, precision, focus, and the ability to let go. It's like taking a picture. What really matters is where you at before you get to the studio. Ya know?
 
If you could play on stage with anyone living or dead, who would it be and why?
There is no band that I am more excited to play with then my current one. It is a new band I put together consisting of the Dub Trio and my long time guitar player and friend Aaron Dugan, and keyboard player Rob Marscher. The sound is unique and uplifting. The
musicians are humble and good listeners which is the main skill in being amazing musicians.

What’s your favorite song you’ve recorded and why?
My favorite moment is the bridge in “I Will Be Light”. I feel it sums it all up for me.
 
What is the moment in your career so far that has just blown your mind, a certain show? Recording session? Meditation?
I have had a few moments on stage where the barrier between the
musicians and the listeners has been conquered and everyone in the
room became a listener. The exchange has been real and beautiful.
These are the moments I live for.