Neshama

Neshama combines several musical styles and unique instruments, making their sound impossible to classify in a single genre. Clear acoustic instrumentals and tight harmonies draw the audience to a comfortable place on the edge of their seats. In moments, it is obvious that Neshama sings and plays to an unseen audience of One.

As the meaning of their name implies, Neshama is a breath of fresh air, and not just because the band refuses to wear skinny jeans. "Neshama," the Hebrew word for "soul," is the word used to describe the life that God breathed into Adam in the Genesis creation story. It is this life and connectivity to God that Neshama strives to convey through music.

Neshama's unique sound evolved from the songwriting of Travis Bartow, who began playing guitar and singing at a young age and soon picked up the mandolin, violin, and bouzouki. He was privileged to study under Albany Symphony Concertmaster Jill Levy. Travis was drawn to the melodies and rhythms of Irish and Celtic music, which became evident in his first compositions as a young teenager. By the age of 14, he was regularly leading worship for various churches and church events. Travis' joy in playing and singing is contagious, as are the songs he sings.

His style was soon complemented by fellow composer and songwriter Jonathan Newell, who was drawn to the music, and subsequently, to God. A naturally gifted musician, Johnny soon learned to play guitar and bouzouki, and now holds a B.A. degree in music (with an emphasis in composition) from Skidmore College. He also studied voice for 4 years. Johnny's partnership added depth and complexity to Travis's beautiful melodies.

Lyndon Watkins, Travis' childhood friend and bass guitarist has an A.S. degree in music from SUNY Adirondack and is now pursuing a degree in Fisheries at the State University of New York at Cobleskill. Lyndon is passionate about playing with his brothers in Christ and loves the great outdoors. "Both experiences," he says, "draw me closer to God." Lyndon also finds the cell phones and capos that Travis and Johnny lose on a regular basis.

Isaac Bartow, one of Travis' siblings, plays keyboard and studied under accomplished country musician, Randy Rollman. Isaac's solid faith and deep emotion is conveyed through his music. The red hair is just a bonus.

Ethan DuBois began playing violin at the age of six and was classically trained. He has a B.S. degree in computer science from Boston University with a minor in music. Ethan was reintroduced to Jesus during his time at BU and currently works for Cru in Boston. He enjoys reading, technology, and connecting with friends of all backgrounds.