The Israelites Farewell Show....for now.

Last night in Hollywood 6/19/07 at the world famous Knitting Factory in the Alterknit Lounge, which is their smaller more intimate room, The Israelites said goodbye to their fans for the time being. Those who do not follow traditional Ska and Reggae in LA may not know that The Israelites band has been around for 20 years or that they were responsible for the revival of the traditional scene over the past few years, and that this band has had more members come and go than your local brothel. But the big difference is that The Israelites are made up entirely of Christian members and their positive lyrics reflect the faith and commitment that each of these bandmates have to their religion. Be that as it may, it doesn't mean that they don't put down some heavy beats that are guarenteed to make you move your feets!
Rich Carlson, the lead guitarist and vocalist is really the only remaining "original" member of the band. This means when Rich leaves for Oregon later this year, the band will cease to exist until Rich feels it is time to pick up the axe and feed our souls once more.

The Show:
SOLD OUT! Yes, it was a packed house and not a body in the room could resist the sweet sounds of Jamaican music. That, along with $3 Red Stripe made for a great night of dancing and socializing. They played their catalogue of songs from their first EP's to the new songs. Rich made an annoucement in the middle of their set that they would be putting out a new CD in the next few months, definitely will pick up a copy of that. He also remarked at how awesome it has been to be in a such an amazing band that has lasted literally for decades. I almost thought I saw a tear in his eye. But Rich did let everyone know that he is not going to quit making music and hopes to continue to his passion for Jamaican music with possibly another group. I'm looking forward to see what happens there.





The scope of their carrer is best noted on their myspace page.
Excerpt below:
"For over a decade now "The Israelites" have established themselves mainly playing in Los Angeles and Orange County venues such as; The Whiskey, The Roxy, Show Case Theater, Hong Kong Cafe', The Knitting Factory, Chain Reaction, The El Rey, The Glasshouse, The Loft and numerous other clubs. The Israelites have toured the country playing many venues such as The Wetlands in New York. The Israelites have also been support acts for performers such as: The Skatalites, Lord Tanamo, Derrrick Morgan, Justin Hinds, Jump With Joey, Hepcat, The Toasters, and many more."

They will be missed by Ska and Reggae affectionados and Christians alike. Their positive messages and heavy traditional ska and reggae beats will forever be remembered by all LA and OC ska scenesters for years to come.






WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY H-MAN