Nistar and The Redemptones - Soulful Jam Session at Crazy Uncle Mike’s

I have to say—I didn’t know what to expect. Crazy Uncle Mike’s is one of those tucked-away spots in Boca Raton where anything can happen. I walked in with no expectations, and honestly, that’s the best way to experience a night like this.

During soundcheck, as the musicians warmed up, something clicked. The textures, the groove—it had that analog, soulful flavor that instantly brought to mind the vibe of Money Mark, the keyboardist who toured and recorded with the Beastie Boys. I already knew I was going to have a great time photographing this.

The sound that filled the room was a genre-bending fusion of Chassidic funk, deep soul, improvisational jazz, and vintage American roots. Both Nistar and The Redemptones tapped into electric funk vibes—rhythms driven by spirit and pulsing with heart.

Here’s the lineup:

The Redemptones
Nistar (נסתר)
Mega Jam Session (The Redemptones and Nistar)

Nistar (נסתר)

Nistar is a magnetic trio blending Chassidic funk, jazz, and soul into a wordless journey that speaks volumes. Their dynamic grooves and meditative improvisation create space for connection—within and beyond. Each performance is a soulful invitation to listen, feel, and move with intention.

Eli Jayson (אלי ג׳ייסון) – Keyboards, saxophone
A genre-bending composer with a history of performing alongside C. Lanzbom, Skerik, and Delvon Lamarr. His arrangements feel like narratives without words, guiding you on cosmic journeys. He blends composition with open-ended improvisation that opens the heart and lifts the spirit.
Ary Baldioceda (ארי בן מלך) – Drums
Originally from Costa Rica, Ary honed his craft at LA Music Academy under legends like Joe Porcaro and Ralph Humphrey. Known for his dynamic touch, deep groove, and sensitivity, Ary offers beats that feel like storytelling—making listeners move while grounding them in rhythmic intelligence. He’s performed with Tony Pérez and Grammy-winner C. Lanzbom.
Brody Greif (ברוך חיימ) – Bass
Brody is a NY-raised, Nashville-trained musician and producer who works with award winning artists spanning a multitude of genres. An audio engineer at heart though, Brody is not only passionate about music but also how that music reaches its listeners’ ears.

The Redemptones

This collective brings vintage soul, blues, funk, and spiritual depth into one joyful whole. Their mission: restore faith in Jewish American music. Their shows are equal parts throwback and transformation.

Gedaliah Aronson (גדליה אהרונסון) – Guitar
A multi-instrumentalist, educator, and coach whose soulful guitar helps spark connection and emotional release. He draws from trauma-informed work and Jewish soul traditions to lead through sound and empathy. His band Chillent’s 2017 album Jewish Soul Stew is a perfect entry point to his fusion of healing and groove.
Sruli Broocker (ישראל ברוקר) – Harmonica, vocals
A somatic practitioner, multimedia artist, and mystic who channels lived presence through his harmonica. Sruli blends Jewish spirituality, neuroscience, and animation into everything he does. His harmonica speaks with gut-level honesty—cleansing, liberating, and fully alive.
Yisroel Arye Gootblatt (ישראל אריה גוטבלאט) – Keyboard bass, keys
A Torah scholar and musician whose playing blends spiritual insight with vintage riffs. Whether leading worship or throwing down in a jam, his work brings deep heart and sharp musicianship to every project.
Marvin Clairsaint – Drums
He is a dynamic professional with a passion for innovation, leadership, and meaningful impact. Known for his strategic mindset and collaborative spirit, Marvin brings integrity and excellence to every endeavor he undertakes.

Overall Thoughts

Photographing this experience revealed a truth: this wasn’t just a concert. It was a shared moment of groove and connection. The musicians weren’t simply performing—they were locked into something real. The energy was alive, and capturing it felt like being part of the music itself.

See the full album of their performance.

Family, Fans, Support.

Kudos to those who show up without question, cheer the loudest, and feel every beat as if it’s their own. Their energy echoes through every note—it’s the reason the room feels alive.