B-Side Guys

Faith has always found its most profound expression in music, and Israel Portnoy’s “IMADI” achieves something remarkable – making an ancient psalm feel as immediate as a whispered confession. Drawing from Psalm 23:4, this first glimpse of his forthcoming “Poetry in Prayer” album demonstrates how spiritual tradition can speak directly to contemporary uncertainty.

The Manchester-born, New York-based artist brings a worldly perspective to sacred text, informed by his journey from UK synagogues through the Jerusalem hills to Manhattan’s streets. His diverse influences – from George Harrison’s spiritual questing to Paul Simon’s literary precision – shine through in arrangements that respect tradition while embracing modern soul sensibilities.

Portnoy’s approach to “IMADI” feels particularly poignant given his personal history with loss. Having watched his home and recording studio burn in an Israeli forest fire, his understanding of faith amid tribulation rings authentic. The survival of his vintage ’63 12-string guitar “Guilda” serves as both metaphor and instrument, its weathered strings carrying stories of resilience.

The production maintains an intimate atmosphere while allowing space for grandeur. Beginning with sparse piano accompaniment, the track builds like a prayer gaining conviction, eventually flowering into full gospel-inspired harmonies. It’s a masterclass in dynamic control, knowing exactly when to whisper and when to testify.

What’s particularly striking is how Portnoy navigates between languages and traditions. The Hebrew “Imadi” and English “You are with me” don’t just translate each other – they enhance each other’s meaning through repetition and melodic variation. It’s the kind of bilingual poetry that speaks to universal experience while honoring specific tradition.

As a prayer leader turned recording artist, Portnoy brings unique perspective to the intersection of sacred and secular music. His time with The Portnoy Brothers and various international collaborations has clearly informed his ability to make ancient texts feel relevant without diminishing their gravity.

The track’s arrangement demonstrates sophisticated restraint, allowing each element – from the foundational piano to the layered vocals – to serve the message rather than overshadow it. This careful balance suggests someone who understands both the power of silence and the impact of a well-placed crescendo.

“IMADI” serves as bridge between Portnoy’s various musical identities. While this track leans into spiritual reflection, his upcoming Aura EP promises different colors from his sonic palette. This versatility suggests an artist more interested in authentic expression than genre constraints.

In transforming psalm into soul ballad, Portnoy has created something that transcends both categories. “IMADI” stands as evidence that sometimes the most contemporary sound comes from reaching back through centuries, finding eternal truths that resonate across time, language, and tradition.