ISLAND SOUNDS
Jawaiian compilation CDs food for the ear

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

Compilation CDs, much like buffet meals, offer a gamut of entrées to whet the appetite and please all tastes. If Jawaiian is your thing, you'll have a good fling with this pair of releases.

Artists: Various artists, including Gregory Isaacs, Butch Helemano, Justin & Bitty McLean, Norm, Pati, Ka'ala Boys, Kapena.

• Label: Neos Productions V061.
• Genre: Reggae, Jawaiian, hip-hop.
• Distinguishing notes: Showcases 18 local and international performers in a parade of excerpts from previous releases. Three new tracks (by Kawika Regidor, Nightlife and Zack Kekona) bring a breath of freshness to the familiar tradewinds of Jamaican riffs.
• The outlook: Toe-tappers /hand-clappers include Isaacs' "Night Nurse," Koa'uka's "Boom Shi Boom Lover," Lehua's "Rubbin' Up," Ka'ala Boys' "Easy Feeling," Helemano's "Lover's Moon." Pati's "All I Have to Do Is Dream" and the "More Than Words" duet by Justin and Mclean are sales insurance.
• Our take: Clearly, a party number. A don't worry, be happy mood from start to finish.

• Artists: Various artists, including Namahana, Jamin Da Chief Ragga, Maestro and Ilona Irvine and Brownskin.
• Label: Hobo House on the Hill HHHRCD 0022.
• Genre: Jawaiian, urban.
• Distinguishing notes: The label unleashes its stable of stars in a mixed plate of excerpts from earlier outings. Mana 'Ohana's "Island Dream Girl," Irvine's "Never Given Up," and Island Warriors' "I Like the Way We Do It" typify the musical pleasures.
• The outlook: Good vibes, through and through. For some acts, it'll be an introduction to a new audience; for others, reacquaintance time.
• Our take: One-stop shopping for performers nurtured by the savvy production team of Roni Yurong Jr., Lawrence Yurong and Ronnie Esteban.

"Never Given Up" by Irvine. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.