Reviews for I BELIEVE

I really enjoyed this whole album.  From beginning to end, it’s full of spirituality, uplifting and inspirational music.  Whenever I feel down or upset, I just pop it into the CD player and feel myself feeling better and smiling!
–author: Tzivia (CD baby review)

First chance I have had to listen to your album.  It’s truly wonderful, so different, so beautiful.  Yasher Koach!!! Greatful to Hashem for giving me such a wonderfully talented friend.

-Shoshana (Baltimore)

This CD is fantastic.  I finally had a moment to listen to it and it’s totally blowing me away!  You must get this out to women everywhere!
– Rivky (Passaic resident)

I must tell you that the job you did on your CD is phenomenal.  I loved it form the beginning, and the more I listen to it, the more I enjoy the musical talent, the lyrics, and the professional job that was put into it.
– Aliza (Israel resident)

It is so lovely and beautiful.  Your voice is so pleasant to hear and the background music is great.  The words are meaningful.  Your CD helps me get through these hard times.  It’s almost like you wrote the songs for me, and when one needs to be uplifted and build strength and faith, you are the remedy.  Thank you for sharing your gift with us.
– Rachel (Monsey resident)

I loved your CD.  You are so deep.  I love your feelings as they are my feelings too (although I didn’t know it).  It was so spiritual….I got goose bumps listening to it.
– Laura (Monsey resident)

Aliza Dubin’s newest release ‘I Believe’ is a creation of true beauty.  Deeply introspective and healing, Aliza’s melodies, harmonies, and instrumentals meld together to form a pure whole.  Truly an expression of the soul, the songs call and connect to the innermost emotions of the listener.  Aliza Dubin is a master of harmony.  She sings all vocals on the CD, sometimes sounding like a choir.  Her voice dances intimately amidst the instrumentals- with glorious artistic flare.  ‘I Believe’ is uniquely Aliza Dubin (and you can’t get better than that!)
-Folksinger/songwriter Zlati (Texan resident)

It was nice meeting you at the conference and I really enjoyed watching you sing.  One can see that you are very connected to your music.  I have been listening to your album over and over and absolutely love it.  The music is terrific, not over-processed which many Jewish singers tend to aim for, simple but rich and appropriate for your voice, your material.  I would love to perform again with you soon.  Your songs are toichendik, and your performance was really a great example of what a frum female singer should be.  Loving your CD!
– Chanale (singer-songwriter, recording artist, Brooklyn)

Aliza’s music awakens the soul and the desire to bring out your inner potential.  Her voice is both angelic and rich, coupled with stirring lyrics and melodic instrumentals, and taps into a broad range of emotions and inspire us to look within to find hidden gems.  The CD ‘I Believe’ is a transforming experience.  The music makes me feel calm and this music offers hope and the belief that things will be better.
– Yocheved (Passaic resident)

Your songs are inspirational and have been very helpful to me in my life.- Chaya (Brooklyn resident)

I finally had a chance to listen to your new CD.  I really enjoyed it.  Aliza’ latest recording is thoughtful, optimistic, and soulful.  Her melodic voice is complimented by strong production and interesting voice-overs.  Her memorable songs, like fine red wine, keep getting better with time.
– Leslie (Passaic resident)

‘I Believe’ is like a prescription drug.  I listen to it all the time.
– anonymous

‘I Believe’ is so beautiful.  I cry when I listen to it, it touches me so.  The art work is gorgeous, the music is soulful, the mix and instrumentals, are gorgeous, the words are unbelievable.  Thank you so much, Aliza!-   Basya (Lakewood)

I love Aliza’s CD.  I listen to it over and over again.  It speaks to the niche that many of us live in  – beautiful, mature, inspiring, catchy Jewish music that speaks to our lives as women and mothers.  We don’t need more songs like they sing on the radio, about romantic love- I really appreciate having music that is relevant to me, in which the subject matter is about always trying to be a better Jew and mother, because that’s what we are all trying to do.
– Lillian (Passaic resident)

Your CD is absolutely beautiful!  We all enjoyed listening to it. It is definitely inspirational and a nourishment for the soul. I love your music and the way you convey it to the audience. You should be zoche to inspire and uplift many neshamas.  May you be successful in reaching out and touching women’s hearts far and wide beyond your expectations!
– Leah (singer-songwriter, Monsey)

I listened to your CD and it was extremely beautiful and moving! I really enjoyed the sample tremendously.  HK”BH gave you a beautiful gift and it is wonderful that you are using it to inspire and uplift people.

-Devora Rochel (Baltimore)

Your CD is beautiful- I am really enjoying it and will definitely recommend it. Your lyrics are very special and I like that it’s not frum lyrics to salacious rock and roll music (like much Jewish music out there).

-Rivka (Passaic)

Thank you for the CD -it’s beautiful!  I’m really enjoying it!  I wish you tons of hatzlocha and simchas!  I have a few favorites already-my favorite song on the album is ‘I Believe’- it just has everything:   the words are inspiring, the music is catchy, the beat is great, and you sing it beautifully.  When things get a little rough, and I need a pick me up or I need something to get me going, I can listen to that and feel life again.  ’Back Home’ has great music and warming words.  ’Modeh’ has really nice harmony (lots of the songs have nice harmony parts) and reading the words are touching.  They really are all good!  ’Down Here on Earth’- the message/words are just great!  ’Candle in the Window’ and ‘Jerusalem’ make me miss Israel.  ’Sleeping Angel’ really had me in tears- the words are so sweet and true regarding our children..they are so precious and dear to us.  ’Picture Frame’ has great piano music.. I really have to say, overall, awesome! The music is soothing  and beautiful and the words are so touching and beautiful and hit so close to home -it’s clear they are truly from your heart and soul!  You truly feel the things you wrote about and it means so much more to me. Your voice is so calm and soothing. The little comments you put into the jacket are so inspiring and insightful!  Everything is really great!  Kol Hakavod!  Thank you.

-Debbie (Monsey, NY)

I am really enjoying your CD.  You have a beautiful voice and the lyrics are stirring.   Thanks.

-Carol (Passaic)

Reviews for HEY LITTLE GIRL

The CD was so wonderful to listen to today!  I drove to Brooklyn and had to stop on the side of the road to nurse the baby which normally would be stressful but I kept the car running so I could listen to you and it was wonderful!  There were so many thoughts I had as I was listening to it.  Firstly, it was just very relaxing.  Secondly, I think it would be very good music to do a cheshbon hanefesh to. It is inspiring and contemplative.  Thirdly, I felt it was very accepting, meaning you feel that you like everyone who listens to it and that you understand people’s struggles. Your husband must be so proud of you, not to mention your parents and family!  Thank you again!
- Leah from Passaic, NJ

I ordered your CDs for myself: one by the computer, one for the radio-CD player and one for the car.  I will give one copy to a very special friend at a later date. When I listened the first time tears streamed down my face the whole time.  I wasn’t crying.  I was letting go.  Now every time I listen I hear more, or hear it differently.  I really don’t know how to express what Hey Little Girl has done for me, or means to me.  I am looking forward to A Light of Many Colors.
– Chaya-Eliana Levy, Coral Springs, FL

I love your music- it’s raw and lilting.  And I admire your vulnerability in producing that.
– B. Bender, Jerusalem, Israel

Thank you again for the special gift of music you sent me.  Your tape is so incredible!  I can’t get enough of it!  Listening to side 2 was just as wonderful as listening to side 1.  I’m totally psyched for you and I’m sure you’ll reach , with G-d’s help, many people with your inspiring words and beautiful voice.

I was so happy to be able to listen to music again today and the first tape I grabbed was yours.  I know I’ve heard your music many times, but for some reason today, the words to your songs really struck a most powerful chord inside of me.  You really are blessed with a tremendous gift and Hashem should continue to inspire you to write more such beautiful lyrics and music.
– D. Singer, Ma’alet Amos, Israel (singer-songwriter)

I got your tape.  Thank you so much.  I have to tell you that I am really impressed and am thrilled to see what you have done.  I am enjoying listening to the tapes and it is so nice because in my own way, I feel like I have a part of you here with me in my home.  It’s funny because I feel so proud of you and I called my mom and played about 10 seconds of music over the phone and said, “THAT is my friend, Aliza!!!!!!”
– B. Shmagin, LA, CA

Many thanks for the lovely CD you gave us which I listened to several times and really enjoyed.  You are very talented and I am very taken with the tunes, the singing, the piano, etc.  Some of my favorites are Hey Little Girl, Loving Kindness, Walked Out the Door, etc, etc…They are all great. Congratulations to Chaim and Yissy for the lovely graphics, too.
- Y. Baldachin, Toronto, Canada

Mazal Tov!! Quite an accomplishment.  Your voice is even more beautiful than I remembered….and it was very beautiful in my memory.  I give you lots of credit for living out your dreams.
- B. Dilman, Neve Yaakov, Israel

I found the music from Hey Little Girl to be enchanting and very inspirational.  I will keep it in mind for gift ideas and contact you directly to order.
– B. Ayoub, Canada

Aliza Dubin Hey Little Girl

‘Hey little girl what’s holding you back form letting go of your pain and your anger that you keep deep inside like a prisoner?  What are you afraid of little girl, take my hand and I’ll lead you, to the path, to the place, of forgiveness and love.”

The reassurance is provided by Aliza Dubin, the singer-songwriter-pianist whose 70-minute debut CD, Hey Little Girl, glides through its 14 tracks of meditative splendor that runs the gamut of emotion and experience with a soothing consistency.  “I believe all of us can relate to and personally identify with our inner child, “Dubin says of her album’s title.  “When set free from within, it can help us to release our inhibitions and fear and anger.  And we can heal.”

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in Toronto, Canada, Dubin has lived in Israel and Los Angeles.  She currently resides in Monsey, NY.  While having taught aerobics and provided personal counseling, in addition to handling the international distribution for Aish HaTorah’s Voices from Jerusalem tapes, the ambition to take her piano-based music beyond the living room prompted Dubin to record Hey Little Girl.  Growing up, her tastes were typical ‘70’s rec room fare – Barry Manilow,  Billy Joel, Elton John – but her own style falls closer to the contemplative  singer-songwriter tradition of Joni Mitchell or Judy Collins and the modern-day likes of Suzanne Vega, Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan.

But an unrelenting spiritual outlook fuels all of Dubin’s lyrics, which weave through melodies that invoke improvised intimacy, even with each subsequent listen. Her journeys collide and coalesce in their quest for tranquility through a seamless surge of energy.  It reflects Dubin’s view that “life and death, pain and pleasure and light and darkness, are part of the same piece of fabric.”

Those paradoxes are evident in songs like “Day & Night”, where Dubin’s own cathartic feelings manage to enrapture her listeners.  “Loving Kindness” is where Hebrew words from Psalm 30 are intertwined with awareness that G-d can change a lament into dancing.  And a “symphony of colors” can be heard beaming on every measure of “Path of Life”.  At age 36, as a wife and mother of four boys, the breadth of Aliza Dubin’s journey has been vast.  Hey Little Girl fears not to explore all the inner conflict and outer confrontation we can all comprehend, yet leaves behind an exhilarating sense of hope and happiness.

Or, as Dubin explains:  “The way I process my struggle for acceptance, clarity, and resolution- all my songs have resolution in them – is to write a song.”

M. Weisblott

Music Critic, 3/26/2001

Toronto, Canada

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Listening to the music of the “Hey Little Girl” CD, you can clearly hear wisdom in the lyrics (composed by Aliza, except for Psalm 30).  As the artist says on the CD jacket:

The soul of the artist

On gossamer wings

Soars to the heavens

Fragile, as heart strings.

Even though others may classify the music on this CD as Jewish religious, I see it in a broader view.  I would describe it as uplifting, refreshing music full of beautiful vocals, beautiful piano playing and inspirational wisdom.

The entire CD is enjoyable to listen to. And some of the lyrics are catchy, such as “The Right Thing to Do” and “Loving Kindness”.  And the piano music and lyrics of the aptly entitled song “Dancer” are enchanting (the phrase “My Dance” in the lyrics, of course, is a metaphor for ones’ life—one’s “dance”).

At times, Aliza’s vocals and piano playing remind me of Enya and of Susan Aglukark—that’s a compliment.  Even with those similarities, Aliza is an artist with her own style.

About 95% of the lyrics are sung in English, and the remaining part is in Hebrew. In the few songs that do contain Hebrew, the Hebrew is well intermixed with the English and does not interfere with the flow of the song, even for someone like myself who does not understand Hebrew.

Although the CD is intended to be listened to only by women (see Halakah, Jewish law), it provides inspiration and wisdom that all people can benefit from.  I highly recommend this inspirational CD and I look forward to other CD’s by this artist.

See also:  Music tape “A Light of Many Colors”, a collection of traditional and modern Jewish songs, by Aliza Dubin and Devorah Singer.

D. Cusimano

MyCDshelf.com, 11/16/05

Toronto, Canada

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Aliza Dubin’s Hey Little Girl (11/22/2001)

If Alanis Morisette and Tori Amos converted to Judaism and collaborated on a new album, it might sound something  like Aliza Dubin’s, 14 track debut CD Hey Little Girl. This singer-songwriter-pianist’s beautiful, sincere, and inspiring collection of songs, will take you on a spiritual journey of a soul striving for self-actualization and joy.  Aliza Dubin’s captivating voice, honest lyrics, and tunes are also catchy, enough to be called pop music.  Try it, you’ll like it.

- Janice Schulman, animator, film maker, artist, Toronto, Canada

Letters of Recommendation and Fan Mail:

March 25, 2003

Dear Aliza,

I find myself again looking for words to express my appreciation for the time and effort you have put into making sure Ashira is a success.  In reading through the lyrics to Oh, Jerusalem, it seems to be that it contains a piece of your very being.  The words are so beautiful and they ring so true in the hearts of many in attendance that evening.  You have a special gift to be able to take the raw aching emotions so many of us feel when thinking of Jerusalem and bring them out in such a warm, down to earth way.  Thank you for lending your poetic and musical gifts to the evening.  The concert would not have been complete without your exhilarating performance and spiritually uplifting words.

We are very grateful to your wonderful contribution to Ashira VI and hope to share the experience again with you in the future.  Meanwhile, may Hashem bless you with health and happiness and may you continue to do for others and use your talents to help the community.

I am so glad to know you and hope to work with you in the future on chessed projects again.

Fondly,

Chaya Sara Mendlowitz, President

Yad Basya Ezras Cholim, Inc.

11/17/2003

2/29/2000

Dear Aliza,

It was so wonderful to associate the name with the amazing voice with the beautiful face that we saw, when you stepped on stage for the first time for rehearsal on February 6^th.  It’s clear that there is a tremendous chemistry between you and Devorah.  We are so glad that you chose us as the stage upon which to display it.

We hope very much that is is Hashem’s will that the two of you, join together, the dynamic duo that you are, and perform for many other mitzvah causes in the future.

Your hard work, your efforts, on behalf of Ashira 3 were touching.  Above all, your total commitment to ahavas chessed, love of lovingkindness, carried the day.  The song that you wrote for Yad Basya “A Light of Many Colors” was so effective.  So many people spoke about the power of its verses and the power of its music to motivate them to change and to grow.  Just imagine all the chessed you brought about, suggesting that chessed could be a part of our lives if we pray for it.  May it be a zechus, a merit, in your own life.

I am so glad to know you and hope to work with you in the future on chessed projects again.

Fondly,

Chaya Sara Mendlowitz

Yad Basya Ezras Cholim, Inc.

———————————————————————————————————–March 25, 2001

Dear Aliza,

It was so wonderful to see you again on stage so confident, shining so bright and rendering effortless the amazing art of singing for the masses.  It is clear that there was tremendous chemistry between you and the audience.  And we are so gad that you have chosen us as the stage upon which to display it.

It’s interesting Aliza that the words of your second song in “In Loving Kindness”- the English translation of the Tehillim of  Mizmor Yud Lamed, happens to be my “absolute favorite” Tehillim of Mizmor.

Since I was a little girl, whenever I was in trouble, whenever I was looking for Hashem, whenever I am grateful to Him, I use this Mizmor as my vehicle of praise supplication, and bakasha to Hashem.  When I first heard you sing those words in English in your own inimitable style you took my breath away.  I don’t think it’s a coincidence that that particular song spoke volumes to me.  Your entire performance transformed the audience.

We are so grateful for your wonderful contribution to Ashira 4 this year and hope to share many a stage with you in the future.  Meanwhile, may Hashem bless you with health and happiness and my you continue to do for others and use your talents to help the community.

I am so glad to know you and hope to work with you in the future on chessed projects again.

Fondly,

Chaya Sara Mendlowitz

Yad Basya Ezras Cholim, Inc.

Dear Aliza,

It was truly a pleasure working together to prepare for the “One Voice” Concert in New Orleans.  You are a very talented vocalist, composer, and performer, and your beautiful harmonies enhanced my performance greatly.  I’m also glad we were able to become better acquainted with one another, and look forward to working together again.

Fondly,

Katia

Dear Aliza,

Just a note to say how beautiful your performance was.  Thank G-d, your voice came back 110%!  As I said, it was a pleasure to have one act that I didn’t have to stress about- thank you for that!

- Lara Gedzelman, Passaic, NJ (producer, writer, filmmaker)

Dear Aliza,

I so enjoyed playing with you and meeting a true songwriter of the Lord.  I was glad we got to share a little with each other and you told me where those songs came from.  Please keep in touch.  There’s something so special about you.

Love,

Katy

11/14/2005

Dear Aliza,

I want to thank you for transforming your home into a ground-breaking theatrical venue last night.  That’s said knowingly by one who has lived all of her life (numerous decades) in Passaic, Clifton.  You were so gracious, generous, and warm.  I loved listening and felt the special ambience.

Shalom,

Lilyan Schwartz

Dear Aliza,

My daughter and I visited your home in February with the group of ladies participating in Dina Mensch and Laurie Baum’s Inspiration Retreat.  It was a beautiful evening and we really enjoyed your music.  While there I purchased the Hey Little Girl CD and I LOVE it!  The words really speak to me and I find myself with tears in my eyes.  Your voice is so beautiful.  I’m really glad we were able to be there.  Thanks for having us over.  I’ll be contacting you about buying more CDs.

Happy Passover,

Patricia Malka

Mrs Dubin,

8/28/2001

Dear Mrs. Dubin,

I don’t know if you remember me.    My sister had to sing a song in her camp so she chose Hey Little Girl and everyone loved it!  It’s beautiful and she sings the song the best from everything she sings.  We’re still enjoying your CD very much .

Love, Hindy

I really love your CD. I especially loved the song Hey Little Girl. The words are beautiful and profound.  Keep them coming.

- Avigail Litchfield

5/31/2001

Hi Ladies.  I wanted to let everyone know that my singing partner, Aliza Dubin, just came out with her first cassette of her own original music which is awesome.  If you liked her cut of “Rain Falls”, which was on the tape we sent out, you’ll love her new tape.

D. Singer

Aliza, thank you for your kind email.  When Janice told me that you are a singer and that you  and your music are spiritual, I was interested in listening to it so I purchased it that afternoon.  I am glad that I did.  I have listened to the CD numerous times now and I find the music relaxing and enjoyable.

Janice told me about your Hurricane Katrina benefit concert and that it went extremely well.  Glad to hear you did that for the community.  I really look forward to your next CD.  And I wish you well in all your endeavors. G-d bless.

D. Cusimano from Cusimano.com Corporation

Your CD is just wonderful.  I intentionally “program” myself with your music. Do you have any other CDs or tapes?  Do you give concerts?  I would very much like to hear you sing in person. I would love to meet you.  Perhaps you and your family could come to the DC area in the spring and you could consider doing a concert. Thank you for the thought-provoking songs— I thank Hashem for the willingness to listen. – Susan Hawk, DC

Aliza, I wanted you to know that I love your CD- it’s great.  I listen to it at work and it gives me inspiration to continue on with the many tasks of running an after school religious school.  Do you have other CDs?  Thank you and have a great day. – Sue Tygel- State College, PA

Unbelievable….Inspiring… a trip to Gan Eden. Thank you so much for performing for us. – Leah

I listened to your CD today. It is absolutely beautiful.  Thanks.

- Pam Jones, Hickory, NC

Thank you so much for your CD.  Can’t wait for your next one!

3/23/01

Dear Lisa,

Thank you so much for the CD.  Congratulations!  You are a gifted composer, musician, performer- all in one.  I enjoyed listening and took the liberty of making some notes.

Fondly, R.

Wow, wow and wow again!  You blew me away last night!  You were absolutely amazing!  I had no idea what a big production you were making.  I had a fabulous time and really enjoyed the music.  You are so talented (pooh pooh pooh, Bli Eyin Hara!).  Thank you so much for inviting me.  I hope that we will get together soon and that you remember the little people when you become a super-star.  Thank you again.  – Sara Arochas, Passaic, NJ

Dear Aliza,

What a wonderful opportunity to reconnect to you.  Sometimes we are given the gift of renewal if only for a moment to remind us of our G-d given free gifts.  Bless you and your children and husband, and your voice.- Shoshana Lane Liebman

I just wanted to let you know that I listened to your tape and I really enjoyed it.  Your lyrics are very touching. Your tape has really nice songs and you have a beautiful voice.

- Henny Stober

Dear Aliza,

I have just received your CD and it is so moving!  Do you have other CDs?  You have such a beautiful voice. The second song, Hey Little Girl, moves me to tears.

Thank you so much!  Thank you HaShem!!  Wishing you overwhelming blessings for the upcoming New Year.  Take care, best wishes,

-Rebecca White

Just wanted to say thank you very much for the CD.  It arrived a day or so before Pesach so due to the Omer I’ve only had a chance to have a very quick listen to a few tracks….but from what I did hear, it is fantastic!  You have such a beautiful voice!!!  Thanks again and good luck with everything!

-Katy Glass, England

Dear Aliza,

You were wonderful!  Thank you so much for inspiring us with your beautiful music.  I’m sure that everyone there enjoyed the concert as much as I did (Faiga Devora loved it!!).

-Rivky Goldman (Philadelphia concert)