Live at Stubb's cover

Live at Stubb's

Matisyahu · 2005

59 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of reggae, rock, and hip-hop energy flows seamlessly through live performances, creating an uplifting and spiritual atmosphere.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Sea to Sea Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    King Without a Crown — As Matisyahu's breakout hit, this track encapsulates his signature sound with its compelling blend of reggae rhythms and profound lyrical themes about identity and spirituality.
  • →
    Warrior — This song showcases Matisyahu's dynamic vocal range and incorporates elements of hip-hop, emphasizing resilience through its motivational lyrics.
  • →
    Lord Raise Me Up — The track features a deeply spiritual message set against an uplifting melody, making it a standout moment during live performances that resonates with audiences seeking inspiration.
  • →
    Chop ’em Down — This energetic performance highlights Matisyahu’s beatboxing skills intertwined with reggae beats, demonstrating his versatility and live charisma.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The live setting enhances Matisyahu's energetic fusion of genres, making it a compelling listen despite some unevenness in composition.

What we noticed

  • The album features a continuous flow of tracks with minimal pauses, creating an immersive live experience.
  • Matisyahu frequently engages the audience, incorporating call-and-response sections that enhance the communal atmosphere.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady groove for celebration
  • uplifting anthems for togetherness
  • spiritual themes for reflection
  • vibrant energy for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking minimalist soundscapes
  • prefer short, bite-sized tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album propelled Matisyahu into mainstream success, following his earlier work.
Themes
spiritual upliftment· live performance energy· reggae rhythms· identity exploration
Career context
Released on August 23, 2005, 'Live at Stubb's' came after Matisyahu's breakthrough studio album, 'Shake Off the Dust... Arise'. The live album captures the artist in a moment of rapid ascent within the music scene, showcasing his unique blend of reggae and spirituality that resonated widely with audiences. At this point in his career, Matisyahu had established himself as a significant voice in alternative rock and reggae.
Stylistic neighbors
SOJA· Michael Franti & Spearhead· Ziggy Marley

Tracklist

  • 1 Sea to Sea Start here 4:07
  • 2 Chop ’em Down 4:03
  • 3 Warrior 7:58
  • 4 Lord Raise Me Up 3:52
  • 5 King Without a Crown 4:48
  • 6 Aish Tamid 6:55
  • 7 Beat Box 5:05
  • 8 Fire and Heights 4:20
  • 9 Exaltation 6:57
  • 10 Refuge 4:02
  • 11 Heights 3:23
  • 12 Close My Eyes 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata