Eddie Witz and the Most High: I Am What I Am

When singer-songwriter Eddie Witz describes his personal tale as “one of resilience, transformation and the redemptive power of music,” it’s not hyperbole. Stricken with a rare condition that caused partial paralysis to the right side of his face, head and neck, the Los Angeles based artist threw himself into his music. I Am What I Am, his seven song debut EP, is the fruit of his healing through art, and considering the trauma he’s suffered, it’s a remarkably upbeat, empowering set of songs. Collaborating with a number of prominent figures from the worlds of reggae, pop and rock— including the legendary Jeff Barry of “Chapel of Love,” “Leader of the Pack” and “River Deep, Mountain High” fame—Witz keeps the words positive and the tunes grooving. “My Island,” released as a single, is a highlight: “Let me take you to my island/ Where our hearts beat at the same speed,” Witz sings, both in a folk version and a reggae remix. “Once you come down, down to my island, you may never want to leave.” Another key track, “Jamaica Time,” also flirts with a Caribbean vibe, with a bit of a Jimmy Buffett sway (the track is, in fact, dedicated to him). With Jamaican drum giant Sly Dunbar setting the rhythm, Witz sings, “I didn’t come down here for schedules, traffic jams or waitin’ in line/ I came to escape all that madness, I’m on Jamaica time.” It’s a tempting invitation, and you may want to pack your bags and head to the islands yourself before it’s a wrap.