The arrival of Asaf Ashkenazy’s latest album, 3rd, is a celebration of authenticity and musical mastery. Released on January 24, 2025, this eight-track album solidifies the Givatayim-born artist as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music. Drawing from his rich blend of rock, folk, and pop influences, Ashkenazy crafts an album that feels like a journey through the soul of music itself.
What sets Asaf apart isn’t just his ability to write, compose, and produce his songs—it’s the deeply personal imprint he leaves on every track. With collaborators like Shahar Kaufman helping to bring his vision to fruition, 3rd comes to life with a collective energy that amplifies its charm. From the steady pulse of drummers Shai Baruch and Shahar Haziza to the foundational grooves of bassists Tzook Dvorsk and Michael Frost, the album boasts a team effort that never loses sight of Ashkenazy’s singular voice. Adding to the texture are keyboardists Moshe Levi and Gidi Hertz, whose arrangements create lush soundscapes, and the vocal contributions of Isla Cohen, Nophar Levinger, and Odeta Mevuye, whose harmonies elevate the emotional depth of the album.
The album kicks off with “They Can’t Stop the Music,” an anthem of resilience and passion. The track sets the tone for the journey ahead, blending a driving rhythm with uplifting lyrics that feel like a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever fought to keep their dreams alive. It’s a song that speaks to the unyielding power of music, delivered with a sincerity that only Ashkenazy can muster. “There’s No Way” follows, steeped in introspection. The track’s emotive melody paired with Ashkenazy’s earnest vocals creates a ballad that feels both intimate and universal. It’s the kind of song that lingers, the lyrics etched into your memory long after the final note fades. As the album progresses, “Sunny Day” emerges as a burst of optimism. With its breezy arrangement and warm instrumentation, it’s a reminder of life’s fleeting moments of joy. Ashkenazy’s ability to channel hope through his music is a testament to his skill as a storyteller, weaving narratives that resonate across cultures and borders. The fourth track, “Who Do You Love,” takes a more reflective turn. Here, Ashkenazy’s influences shine—echoes of Neil Young’s introspection, Eric Clapton’s soulful precision, and Dire Straits’ melodic craftsmanship weave seamlessly into a song that questions and comforts in equal measure. “Keep Your Heart” brings a tender vulnerability to the mix, a heartfelt ode that feels like a direct conversation with the listener. With a stripped-down arrangement, it’s a moment of raw beauty that showcases Ashkenazy’s lyrical prowess and emotional depth. “It Was a Joke” shifts the mood with a sharp wit and clever songwriting. The track plays like a tongue-in-cheek commentary on life’s absurdities, balancing humor with a dose of self-awareness. It’s a testament to Ashkenazy’s versatility, proving he can tackle lighthearted themes without losing the essence of his artistry. “How” is a slow-burning gem that builds with an understated intensity. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics create a song that lingers like a question unanswered. It’s a moment of quiet reflection that adds depth to the album, inviting listeners to sit with their thoughts and emotions. Closing the album is “Angel,” a track that feels like a benediction. With its soaring harmonies and sweeping arrangement, it’s the perfect send-off—a song that leaves you with a sense of peace and closure, yet yearning to start the album all over again.
What makes 3rd remarkable is the balance it strikes between its influences and Ashkenazy’s own voice. While nods to legends like Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and Dire Straits are evident, the album never feels derivative. Instead, it’s a fusion of the familiar and the fresh, a musical landscape where nostalgia meets innovation. Ashkenazy’s ability to connect with his audience lies not just in his technical skill but in the authenticity that permeates his music. Every note, every lyric feels like an extension of himself—unfiltered, unpretentious, and unapologetically real. It’s this honesty that makes 3rd a standout release, an album that demands to be heard and felt. As Ashkenazy embarks on his tour in England, one can only imagine the magic of hearing these tracks live. There’s an intimacy to his music that feels tailor-made for the stage, a connection that transcends the boundaries of language and geography. For those lucky enough to experience it, his performances promise to be nothing short of transformative.
With 3rd, Asaf Ashkenazy doesn’t just release an album—he invites listeners into his world, a place where music is more than sound; it’s a lifeline, a language, a legacy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this album is a reminder of why we turn to music in the first place: to feel, to connect, and to remember that no matter what, they can’t stop the music.
