Israel Portnoy

Black Box Studios presents Israel Portnoy & Band on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Debonair Music Hall. Doors open at 7:00pm; showtime is 8:00pm. Hailing from Manchester, UK, Israel Portnoy is more than just a musician – he's an artist who weaves soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics into every note he plays. Born into a family where music and spirituality intersected, Israel's journey began in the sacred halls of the synagogue, where his voice first found its wings. But it was the eclectic sounds of legends like the Beatles, Clapton, and Steely Dan, courtesy of BBC Radio 2, that ignited his passion for creating music that resonates across generations. After two albums as half of “The Portnoy Brothers,” which included a collaboration with Alex Clare, a stint as Idan Raichel’s support act, and an impressive number of international performances, Israel’s focus shifted to several solo projects. His first, a 12-song concept album named “Facing Flames feat. Guilda,” was released on May 23, 2021, and commemorates the first anniversary of a forest fire that destroyed everything he owned in a village in central Israel where Portnoy's home and recording studio were based at the time. His most recent writing muse however, is his daughter who has provided non-stop song writing inspiration since becoming a dad. He is set to release the "Aura" EP in the summer, adding another chapter to his musical journey. Inspired by so many who came before him, his influences range from Clapton to Cohen and everything in between – so you’ll have a hard time putting his unique sound in a box.