ISLAND SOUNDS
A rainbow of musical flavors
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor
A mixed musical bag awaits this week — with releases from a neglected Hawaiian brother and Big Island popsters hungry for acceptance.
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"Pana"
- Artist: Nedward "Nicky Boy" Ka'apana, brother of Ledward, formerly of Hui 'Ohana; with an assist from older brother, Keoki.
- Label: Koa Records 405.
- Genre: Traditional and contemporary Hawaiian, with a dose of world music, too.
- Distinguishing notes: Ka'apana's third solo outing is the charm; he tackles Hawaiian favorites ("Wai Ulu," "Pu'u 'O Hulu"), and writes a couple ("I Ka Po Nani, in collaboration with Keoki, and "Buffalo's Song," a tribute to the beloved surfing pioneer.)
- The outlook: A rediscovery for his fans, for Ka'apana; a win-win situation.
- Our take: An appealing and satisfying reaffirmation of Ka'apana's breadth of talent.
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"Eddie Would Go"
- Artist: Dan-O (Jim Major, vocals, guitar; Eric Wakely, lead guitar, 'ukulele, harmonies; Mike Funes, bass; Jim Tsuji, drums and ipu).
- Label: Stink Eye Records SER 0701.
- Genre: Contemporary, rock.
- Distinguishing notes: Swayed by the tragedy and legacy of Eddie Aikau, big wave surfer and Hokule'a crew member who vanished at sea, Dan-O titles its debut CD after a song about the iconic Aikau. The album has a crisp rock sound ("JJ Foley's") that intermittently cools to a folksy flavor ("Heartbeat").
- The outlook: The Big Isle rocks; savvy blend of electric guitar with local gear like the ipu and the uke.
- Our take: Book 'em, Dan-O.
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"J J Foley's" by Dan-o. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
