Shamayim

Shamayaim (Hebrew: שמיים, English: Sky) Sky emerged at a pivotal juncture in the Israeli music scene, a time when a winds of change swept through the industry. Israeli musicians began to feel a shift in the musical landscape, opening up a realm of possibilities for the infusion of American rock-fusion elements characterized by their robust, powerful, and meticulously polished sound. A driving force behind this transformative period was none other than the highly regarded recording technician and music producer, Louie Lahav. Louie had recently returned to Israel from the United States, where he had contributed to the production of Bruce Springsteen's first three albums. His fervent ambition was to usher in a revolution in Israeli music, aligning it more closely with the high production and sound standards that had become synonymous with American rock. The journey of Shamayaim commenced in 1968 when friends Litani and Lahav found themselves playing in the "Terrible Tiger" band. However, their musical collaboration truly took root in 1975, when Litani recorded the evocative song "I Had A Girl," a composition by Lahav, alongside Mike Apple, a producer renowned for his work with the iconic Bruce Springsteen. This creative partnership found its zenith in 1976 with the formation of the Fusion Band, aptly named "Sky." The band's lineup included the talented Elona Torral on keyboards, Aaron Kaminsky on drums and percussion, Ohad Inger on bass guitar, Haim Kerro on electric guitar, and the poet and background vocalist Ricky Manor. Despite Danny Litani's prominent role as the lead vocalist and the primary songwriter, Sky was more than just an accompaniment for Litani. Together, they embarked on a musical odyssey that redefined Israeli music, bridging the gap between cultures and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Shamayaim, or Sky, embodies the spirit of transformation and innovation in Israeli music, forever etching its mark on the landscape of rock fusion.