People sometimes say, “music is my religion” and that “music is the language of The Divine.” Jerry Garcia, of blessed memory, has been called a prophet and countless people once called a Grateful Dead show their church (or shul). Join us for a night of conversation and music in the sanctuary with Rabbi Steve Schwartz and Cris Jacobs. Schwartz and Jacobs will take the bima to discuss themes of spiritual identity, lyrics as sacred text and the ways in which inherited wisdom can accompany a person throughout the many seasons of his life. There will be stories shared, reflections of tours and memories over the decades, a couple close reads on favorite Grateful Dead lyrics and plenty of Cris Jacobs sweet renditions of his and Rabbi Schwartz’s favorite tunes – maybe some of yours too!
Rabbi Steve Schwartz grew up in upstate New York (Binghamton), went to college in Boston (Brandeis), graduate school in Maryland (University of Maryland), and rabbinical school in New York City (JTS). He is a reader, a teacher, a lover of music, a guitar player, and most importantly a husband, father, son, and brother. Baltimore has been his home for more than twenty years.
Cris Jacobs is an unexpectedly gritty soul-blues singer and guitarist with outlaw country ethos. Blending a variety of musical traditions, Jacobs creates a distinctive voice and sound of his own punctuated by emotive songwriting and explosive guitar playing. Equally at home playing heartfelt Americana ballads or funky blues rockers, Jacobs is known for his mesmerizing live shows, where his improvisational guitar playing, powerhouse band, and deep reservoir of songs make each night a unique experience. Named one of Rolling Stone’s “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know” in 2017, Jacobs has collaborated with the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh and Dumpstaphunk’s Ivan Neville, and earned opening slots on tours with Sturgill Simpson and Steve Winwood.
