Kutiman, the moniker of Israeli musician Oren Lavie, is a pioneer in the world of musical mashups. He gained international fame for his “Thru-You” series of videos, where he combined musical snippets from amateur YouTube videos into cohesive, catchy songs. His style can be categorized as electronic, hip hop, world music, and experimental.
Known for his “Thru-You” series, Kutiman’s most popular songs include:
“Thru-You Part 1” featuring vocals from amateur singers across the globe, showcasing a diverse range of styles.
“Thru-You Part 2” featuring a unique blend of instruments and vocals, highlighting Kutiman’s skillful manipulation of sound.
“Thru-You Part 3” featuring a more instrumental focus, showcasing the sonic possibilities of combining various musical elements.
Kutiman’s musical approach has a lot in common with:
DJ Shadow: Both artists utilize sampling and collage techniques to create unique and captivating sonic landscapes.
The Avalanches: Both artists embrace the power of diverse musical influences and create a vibrant soundscape through the fusion of genres.
Beastie Boys: Sharing a playful approach to sampling and remixing, both artists redefine the boundaries of hip hop.
Kutiman’s journey is filled with collaborations and friendships:
The Appleseed Cast: A collaboration with the American indie rock band resulted in the “Thru-You” project, which launched Kutiman’s international career.
The Klezmatics: Kutiman has collaborated with the Klezmer band on multiple projects, including the “Thru-You” series, blending traditional Jewish music with contemporary electronic sounds.
Various YouTube musicians: The “Thru-You” series was a testament to Kutiman’s ability to find talent in unexpected places, connecting with amateur musicians from around the world.
Beyond his “Thru-You” series, Kutiman has released several solo albums, including:
“The Kutiman Project” (2008) featuring his own original music.
“Thru-You: Live!” (2011) a live recording of his mashup performances.
“Thru-You: The Documentary” (2011) a film exploring the creation of the “Thru-You” series.
Kutiman’s work is a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration, demonstrating that music can connect us across cultural barriers and geographical distances. His unique approach to music production has inspired countless other artists and continues to push the boundaries of what music can be.
