A while back, we
received this CD, after being contacted by a woman named Shimrit Hanes.
She told us of her family, who have a musical ministry together,
entitled, Zemer Levav. They had released a CD, filled with their
offerings of Praise and Worship, according to the scriptures. We were
eager in anticipation to receive this CD, as if the Lord was telling us
that this was special. Well! Special does not say enough for Zemar Levav’s
anointed release, “L’Rosh Pina”.
Not only is this CD anointed, but I
believe a breath of life. “L’Rosh Pina” is rich in bringing
the scriptures to life through the ensemble’s obvious love of the
Lord, and excellence in using their God-given musical talents. This
group is made up of wife Shimrit, husband Mark, and siblings, Shalisha,
Adrielle, Kerah, and Liorah Hanes. With the help of violin virtuoso, Les
Morrison, Zemer Levav is sure to become a favorite of believers world
wide. What a powerful blessing from the Lord to be used as a family,
offering up praises! I can tell you that you will embrace this wonderful
musical offering.
I must say that I had
a hard time not song sampling this entire CD for you, but you will agree
when listening to the special samples chosen for you, that the Lord is
in the midst of this CD.
The first song sample
is entitled, “Isaiah 53/Even Ma’asu”.
This song sung partially a cappella, will bring many of you to you
knees, worshipping God! Based upon Isaiah 53: 6-7 and Psalm 118: 22-23,
the group brings to life this wonderful combination of scripture. Isaiah
53 is very near and dear to my heart, as the Lord used this very passage
in His word to reveal Himself to me as my Messiah. Like so many others,
this foretelling of Yeshua by Isaiah is made very clear. Please don’t
wear out the play button of this song sample. You’ll have to order
your own copy of this release. By the way, check out the 5th
track on the CD, entitled “Even
Ma’asu (reprise, improve mix)”. This special musical
improvisational adaptation of the second part of “Isaiah
53/Even Ma’asu”displays just how excellently this talented
family has prepared skillfully unto the Lord.
The second song
selected for you to sample, “Awake
Harp & Lyre”, based upon Psalm 108:1-5, will surely awaken
your soul to dance before the Lord. Close your eyes, and imagine the
days of David. You will want to lift hands unto Him, listening to this
wonderful praise lifted to God. This well-produced CD becomes very
evident after listening to this one.
My third Song Sample
is entitled, “Exalted Servant”,
featuring Shimrit’s beautiful mastery of the harp. Heavenly you
say? There is something about the harp that brings the holy goose bumps
to the soul. This lively adaptation of John 10:22-30, exalts the Lord is
a very special way.
There is so much more
to this CD, I will tell you that it is a must for your Messianic music
collection.
BIOGRAPHY
SO,
WHAT IS ZEMER LEVAV?
"Zemer Levav" is Hebrew and
translates "Song of the Heart."
Our music has a Mediterranean and Sephardic sound, and we bring
you a blend of music and folk dance. The Sephardic Jews were expulsed
from Spain in 1492, and moved to countries around the Mediterranean, and
north into Europe. About 10,000 Jewish Catholic "Conversos"
stayed in Spain, only to move later into Mexico, Central, and South
America, when in spite of their conversion to the Catholic church the
persecution of the Inquisition continued. So, Sephardic music has been
influenced somewhat by the countries into which the Spanish Jews
escaped.
Our music has been influenced by an eclectic mix of Israeli artists,
such as, Habrera HaTivit, Pavarim, Ofrah Haza, The Almagribis, and
others. Their influence has really given us our "sound."
Shimrit enjoys the worshipful scripture songs of Elisheva Shomron, an
Israeli believer. We hope the "soul" of our music has
the same worshipful attitude. Our vocal coach has also been a real
asset. Helping us with our dynamics, and generally
"tightening us up," as well as constantly exhorting us to,
"Remember who you're singing for!"
We worship together at "Remnant of Israel" Messianic
congregation, in Wichita, Kansas, where Mark, Shimrit, and Kerah
Hanes, with Les Morrison, help lead worship when they're not
touring. Les Morrison also attends "Central Christian Church.
WHO
ARE THE MEMBERS OF "ZEMER LEVAV?"
Mark Hanes, the leader of the group,
plays hand drums and percussion, guitar, oud (a mid -east stringed
instrument similar to a fretless lute) and bass. Les Morrison is our
violinist. He also plays mandolin, and about anything that can be played
with a bow. Shimrit Hanes writes the majority of our music. She
sings lead, and plays harp. Shalisha Hanes age
21, sings backup vocals, and an occasional solo. Adrielle Hanes is
17. She plays hand drums, like her father. They include:
djembe, dumbek, and tubano; and also other hand percussion. She sings
with us when we sing rounds, making us an even foursome.
Kerah Hanes, 14 sings backup, and sometimes
solos. Liorah Hanes is 11, and plays hand percussion. Hopefully,
soon she will also sing. As you can see, "Zemer Levav" is a
family affair!
