Posted on: June 8, 2009 Posted by: Jay NeuFutur Comments: 0

This album is based around a theme, being “A Folk-Punk History of the Hebrew Nation”. The tracks on this CD go throughout the entirety of Jewish history, bouncing through the distinct segment of the group’s history. The disc starts out with “Exiled To The Diaspora”, a driven type of track that will have the drums firmly implanted in listeners’ ears by the end of the track. “Diaspora” moves on to “Ab’ram” for the second track, making for a more deliberate approach.

Lieberman’s approach here allows listeners to have a greater understanding of the disparate styles that create Lieberman’s own; while there may be some commonalities to be had between the tracks, the different tacks taken makes for a richer experience overall. The flute takes a front seat for “Midianites”, in a much more melodic role than had previously been present on Lieberman’s albums. It is this sort of flute use that makes the whole of Lieberman’s music shine, and gives me the desire to continue on eagerly with whatever is left on “Diaspora”.

Later tracks such as “The First Fall of Jerusal’em” give listeners further insights into the rich tapestry that makes up Lieberman’s influences. This means that the song itself barely makes it to 75 seconds, and benefits greatly from a more electronic type of draping. The same intense tempo is present here as was present on the onset of “Diaspora”, while Lieberman has enough of a head about eir to let the track fall by the wayside rather than let it run too long. “2nd Diaspora: Babylonia” slows things down, allowing Lieberman more than a fair opportunity to lay out a far bit of storyline. This track, one of the longer on the disc, is where Lieberman should look to go in the future. This is because there are more than enough different ways that listeners can appreciate the track, whether it be through the instrumentation, the arrangements of that instrumentation, or Lieberman’s narrative.

While I must admit I am not too familiar with any of the events described covered here, Lieberman’s focus here is more than enough to get me motivated to pick up a history book.

Top Tracks: Midianites, The First Fall of Jerusal’em

Rating: 6.3/10

Steve Lieberman – Diaspora (CD) / 2009 Self / 18 Tracks / http://www.gangstarabbi.com

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