Road Report: Matisyahu Gives Thanks for a Shower

Reggae MC Matisyahu is keeping a summer diary for Spinner in advance of his new album, 'Light.' In the first entry, Matis admires Japanese culture, gives a preview of his upcoming plans and nearly loses a bandmate in Arkansas.

Hello, hello, konnichiwa, wassup. Matis here, writing from Tokyo. I am in Japan now doing promo and playing two shows at the Summer Sonic festival. So far so good. I'm getting over my jet lag and drinking a lot of green tea and I'm quite impressed by the Japanese people and culture. Such an interesting mix of things. On the one hand it is total sensory overload, lights, colors, animation everywhere, fashion, etc. On the other hand everyone seems so down to earth and humble. People wait for the cross signs to walk across the street, when you walk into a bar or restaurant you feel everyone is family like they know each other and have a mutual respect. It is really quite beautiful.

Next we head to Australia for promo and some shows. It's great to be overseas, but don't worry -- we'll be back in a couple weeks and are planning a massive American tour for the fall through this year's festival of lights. By the way, we are looking into some really special venues for this year's Chanukah blast, stay tuned for info. Besides that get ready for the new record, 'Light,' coming out August 25.

On the tour this summer a friend of mine joined us to film for a bit and is putting together short pieces. The first one is from the start of the tour at the Wakarusa fest in Arkansas. New songs, a collab with Les Claypool, shabbes, nosson, wine, a lost chassid and a lot of hippies made for a great kick-off to this series. Oh and by the way, thanks to the promoters for letting me shower in the big house. I know you're not supposed to stay clean at these things but my jumpsuit was drenched in sweat after our set on Friday afternoon. Peace.