Island Sounds
Mixed reviews for 'various artists' CDs

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

Here's a sampling of recent compilations:

"Wa'ahila" by various artists: All the melodies on this sampler, named for the ridge at the back of Manoa Valley, pertain to that beloved place. The artists include some that already are in the mainstream, some recording particular titles for the first time, others sharing earlier available tunes.

Producer, songwriter and singer Ken Makuakane provides tunes here for the likes of Jeff Rasmussen ("Another Rainbow"), Kala'i Stern ("Rain"), John Feary ("Blue Manoa"), Pai'ea ("No Kou Aloha E") and himself ("Ku'u Home O Manoa").

Robert Cazimero's "Rain Tuahine O Manoa," O'Brian Eselu's "Kahalaopuna" and Quinn Kelsey's "The Rainbow Connection" reflect the rainbow of talent at hand.

"Another Rainbow" by Jeff Rasmussen. An audio sample is available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Hawai'i in a Mellow Mood" by various artists: Not as slick or uniform as it might be, this assortment of 15 tunes has a flavor of its own; it's composed of tracks culled from earlier releases.

Among the best bets: Nightwing's "Caroline," Gail Mack's "Make It With You," Jennifer Barber's "Before You," Bradda B's "Tell Me How To Love" and Paka Smith's "Waimanalo Home." Other acts: Johnny Kamai, Walter Tavares, Lance Jyo, Pahoehoe, Hawaiians Unlimited, Vizion, Salsa Hawai'i, Sharon Sanchez, Tanja Dee and Franz Kahale.

"Caroline" by Nightwing. An audio sample is available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"FM 100 Presents Pride of the Islands, Volume 4" by various artists: The radio station's compilation of tunes was derived from a talent search; winners and finalists are represented, along with artists who have crossed the threshold to success.

Keoni Ku, male vocalist winner, submits "Ipo Hula" and "Right Combination," the latter with Kea Davis Milo. Jaclyn Galios, female vocalist winner, performs her original "Drop Everything." Roots Rockaz, the group winner, chimes in with "Take Your Time."

A terrific opening cut, "Whenever I Call You Friend," is performed by Jeff Rasmussen and Galios. A pro with an up-and-coming star; it's what "Pride" is all about.

"Right Combination" by Keoni Ku & Kea Davis Milo. An audio sample is available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.