ISLAND SOUNDS
Musical blend from Na 'Oiwi evokes imagery of times past

"The Sequel," by Na 'Oiwi, Na 'oiwi Productions, NOPCD 2002 "Island Roots 3: Urban Island Music," by various artists, Quiet Storm Records, QS 1013

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

"The Sequel," by Na 'Oiwi: This is the hana hou outing by Na 'oiwi, four musicians with a single mission of fusing various musical traditions into one sound. It's an easy-listening pleasure, largely in the folk spirit. Imagine if Bob Dylan or The Byrds discovered Hawaiian music in their prime.

The group comprises Dennis Kamakahi; his son, David Kamakahi; Jon Yamasato; and Mike Kaawa. The disc expresses the kind of Hawai'i music the foursome is interested in: a fusion of guitar, harmonica, bass and congas, 'ukulele and traditional Hawaiian instruments such as the ipu (gourd drum) and uli'uli (gourd rattle).

With a few exceptions, the compositions are originals by band members, particularly Dennis Kamakahi and Yamasato. The borrowed tunes are fresh interpretations of popular classics with one rarity, a traditional Celtic number, "The Parting Class."

But the Hawai'i impressions are the hallmark of these men, exemplified in Kamakahi's "Misty Rain," "Golden Stallion" and "Hamakua," placing life's experiences into varying motifs: nature, growing up, a love relationship.

Kamakahi's trademark ditties, heavily recorded by others, include "Wahine 'Ilikea" and "Koke'e," and they resound with new romantic textures and imagery. Yamasato, an apprentice and protege of Kamakahi, sings the latter with assurance and grace.

"E Pili Mau Ai" and "Ka Beauty O Halawa" are among Yamasato's originals, demonstrating his proficiency in the Hawaiian language.

Steve Kramer's tribute to astronaut Ellison Onizuka is a sweet salute on "Onizuka," interpreted by Yamasato; Kaawa sings a Kalaupapa favorite composed by Ernest Kala, "E Na Kini"; David Kamakahi, a fan of the rockabilly faves, the Stray Cats, revives "Stray Cat Strut" with joy; Kamakahi's respect for Queen Lili'uokalani is evident in revivals of her "By and By Ho'i Mai 'Oe" and "Ahe Lau Makani," the latter fused to the waltz tempo of "Wai'alae."

"The Sequel" delivers unending listening enchantment.

"Island Dream" by Na 'Oiwi. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Island Roots 3: Urban Island Music," by various artists: Ready for yet another compilation of Jawaiian, hip-hop, rap and other spin-offs of the reggae movement? It's peddled as urban island music here, and the collaborative efforts by the local acts, known and new, should score at the cash register.

The fare is geared to radio stations and clubs that cater to the young. Performances are crisp, production values high. There are love songs and playful dance tunes; some cuts have stirring political undercurrents, others are just good fun listening. It's no easy task to single out the best track.

Splashing in the pool are such diverse acts as Native Blend ("I'd Still Say Yes"), Ryshe ("Leilani"), Forte ("Loving You"), Ehukai ("Moloka'i Slide"), Three Plus ("Driving Me Pupule"), Ho'omau ("Daydream"), Ekolu ("Just One Night"), Na Waiho'olu'u O Ke anuenue aided by Sudden Rush ("Kaulana Na Pua"), Sunland ("We Are Only Human"), Mana Kaleilani Caceres ("Couldn't Take the Mana"), and Mystic Roots ("One for Me").

New to the scene: D-Ru featuring Onique ("Good Lovin' "), TK ("Natural Feeling"), Kamaha'o ("Dream Girl"), and Phenomenal Ladies featuring D-Ru ("Wild World").

Pati adds a patriotic streak, with his roots-driven version of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

"Moloka'i Slide" by Ehukai. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.