Shana Tova

Shana Tova

Shana Tova are a UK alternative rock trio active since 2006. Their name means “a good/sweet year” in Hebrew. The group’s recorded work and live performances sit within indie, alternative and art rock, with a lo-fi edge and a strong live energy.

Releases

The band releases its self-titled debut through Viann & Violet (Art & Music) in 2009, and the recorded material on the Shana Tova EP is described as carrying the feel of a live performance.

Live work and collaborations

Shana Tova play an angular, forceful live set and perform on alternative stages connected to art and music. They appear alongside Cursive, Tubelord, Johnny Foreigner, Dinosaur Pile-Up, The Tupolev Ghost and Sunset Cinema Club. They also perform with performance artists, VJs and poets, bringing their music to an art audience as well as a rock one.

Sound and influences

Their sound draws on Scottish indie groups such as Orange Juice, Delgados and Belle & Sebastian, as well as U.S. alternative rock acts including Fugazi, Sugar, Thingy and Violent Femmes. The band also cite Kandinsky and comic book philosopher Jeff LeVine among their influences.

Reception

Coverage of the band’s EP highlights the immediacy of tracks such as “Morsels”, the kaleidoscopic rhythm of the arrangement, and the contrasting qualities of “Ants” and “Sleech”, which are described through vivid, abrasive imagery.