Pair sing from the heart on 'Na Mele'
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor
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| "Na Mele" performers, from left: Front row, Nina Keali'iwahamana, Bill Kaiwa; Back row: Steven Hall, George Kuo and Martin Pahinui.
Na Mele: Traditions in Hawaiian Song Featuring Nina Keali'iwahamana and Bill Kaiwa. 7:30 p.m. tonight; repeats at 10:30 p.m. Sunday. KHET-11 (Oceanic 10, Verizon Americast 11). |
The segment premieres tonight.
It brings together the easy-going styles of soprano Keali'iwahamana and baritone Kaiwa in a rapturous half-hour, garnished by an all-star vocal-instrumental back-up ensemble comprised of Martin Pahinui (bass), Steven Hall (guitar) and George Kuo (guitar).
It's almost as if the vocal headliners are backed by the Peter Moon Band, the Sandwich Isle Band and the Sons of Hawai'i, since the crew have had ties with those popular local acts.
What is particularly charming here is the no-frills, sing-from-the-heart styles of both Keali'iwahamana and Kaiwa. She previously was part of the "Na Mele" series; this is his debut.
The format allows both solo and duet outings, and the fare is sweet and intimate, suitable for small-club, living-room-listening. Indeed, the pair perform as if giving a private party for a handful of friends.
The show opens with a lovely duet on "Alekoki" and proceeds to showcase her and his strengths.
She sounds as pristine and perfect as she looks — a delicate facade, an endearing voice — on such solos as "My Sweet Sweetie" and "Silhouette Hula." Only the hula is missing.
He shows maturity as he tackles, with expected eloquence and grace, such oldies as "Loa'a Ko Puna Kanoha" and "Koke'e."
Smartly, the show avoids signature tunes by both singers, since this is not intended to be a showcase of hits. Rather, the intention is to employ the enduring prowess and exceptional interpretative skills of both singers to create a nostalgic evening of music.
The closing tune, "Aloha Ka Manini," brings out the best of the all-star back-up crew. With little talk and all playing, "Na Mele" continues to be a rich resource of some of Hawai'i's best talent.
