Island Sounds
Kapena mixes past and future

"ELECTRIFYING" by Kapena
(KDE Records, 6300)

Audio sample of "Ta‘u Koula" by Kapena in mp3 or RealAudio format. RealAudio requires a plug-in.

Kapena’s first CD of 2001 is both a glimpse into its future and a mirror of its past.

Kelly Boy DeLima and his partners Tivani and Timo Tatofi move forward with a 10-tune sampler that reflects the group’s reign as one of the best contemporary Hawaiian music groups in the Islands.

"Ku‘u Home O Waimanalo," for instance, speaks of the carefree life in Waimanalo.

"Ta‘u Koula" is a traditional Tongan tune given a seductive, thumping rock beat. It supposedly has ceremonial roots linked to a native festival, but Kapena’s reading plays up the party spirit.

"Beyond Today" is a ballad that could emerge as a commencement season anthem. The break-out tune should be "Be As One," a love song with an uncredited female voice that ranks as one of Kapena’s best efforts, reminiscent of a Lionel Ritchie-Diana Ross union.

[back to top]