Isra-Alien is a high-energy acoustic guitar duo with innovative compositions and imaginative arrangements – deeply rooted in Israel’s diverse musical traditions.
This duo was born through many years of musical collaborations and ongoing discussion about various musical concepts. The result is a unique fusing of a myriad of musical traditions (Greek, Balkan, Eastern-European, and Jewish/Klezmer), with daring improvisations and inventive textures, showcasing both guitarists’ musical worlds.
Gilad Ben Zvi, and Oren Neiman are both Israeli guitar players who moved to New York eight years ago and made it their musical home. They met originally during their mandatory service in the Israeli army, and have been close friends and musical collaborators ever since.
In 2005 Gilad had a vision of a guitar duo combining steel string acoustic guitar and nylon string acoustic guitar, playing music that is new to both players, but without giving up each of their unique musical identity. This resulted in a collection of new compositions that challenged both players both technically and conceptually.
In April 2009, Isra-Alien recorded their debut album “Isra-Alien”. The duo has since been touring in support of the new album.
In November 2012 the duo will release their second album Somewhere is Here! featuring 9 new compositions and arrangements that continue their search through the roots of Israeli music, and their exploration of the possibilities available with four hands and two guitars.
The live performances are humoristic and lively, and include stories and personal anecdotes about the music, the compositions and the musicians.
“…the players weave their skills wonderfully, showing expert balance and dynamics…(they) have played together for years and it shows in every note, verse and exchange…” Music Connection Magazine July 2009
Instrumentation
Oren Neiman – Nylon String Guitar
Gilad Ben-Zvi – Steel String Guitar
