ISLAND SOUNDS
Laid-back lyrics and lullabies keep it mellow

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

It's always a happy occasion to encounter a voice or a sound of merit and meaning.

Such is the case with this week's disc-coveries — easygoing vocals by two acts and an instrumental journey by a third, all moved to share their artistry with discriminating listeners.

"Magic Time" by Jim Franklin & the Fam Damly Band (Sunshine Arts Hawai'i)

• Genre: World music, folk.
• Distinguishing notes: Jim Franklin is a singer-guitarist-composer with a penchant for writing bright and happy tunes that reflect his optimism about life. In this collection of 12 originals (one in collaboration with his pal Kelly Brennan), he again shows off his sunny disposition. He is blessed with a coterie of guest artists (singers Ginai Johnston and Sally Davis, keyboarder-engineer Pierre Grill); artist Peggy Chun is the inspiration for "Coincidence," so it's no coincidence that the CD cover features one of her paintings (with guitars as clouds, no less).
• The outlook: A tough sell, but a joyous listening experience for those willing to sign on to Franklin's journey. "You and Me" is a worthy signature.
• Our take: A very personal song bag with simple pleasures.

"Start All Over Again" by Jim Franklin & the Fam Damly Band. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Country Home" by Franz and Dennis (Franz and Dennis Music)

• Genre: World music, contemporary Hawaiian.
• Distinguishing notes: Franz Kahale is a singer-acoustic guitarist, Dennis Ouchi is an electric guitarist; together, they speak and strum a story of tranquil, romantic Hawai'i. The title tune establishes the easygoing style of the duo; some covers, like "Standing in the Rain," "Oh No!" and "On and On," demonstrate their safe middle-of-the-road repertoire. Originals such as "Two-Birds' Song" has a merry, playful exuberance; the lone Hawaiian cover, "Ka Makai Ka'ili Aloha," is offered as a darker, serious ode to romance.
• The outlook: A tidy mix of new and familiar, largely in a folk bag, appealing to listeners weary of the repetition of reggae and Jawaiian.
• Our take: Mellow fellows with a beguiling sound.

"Country Home" by Franz and Dennis. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Hawaiian Lullabies, Volume II" by William Daquioag (Tami Records)

• Genre: Contemporary Hawaiian instrumentals.
• Distinguishing notes: William Daquioag, a former member of The Krush, hit the right notes with the first volume of Island lullabies, familiar melodies commonly performed with lyrics. Sans words, and soothingly and lovingly arranged with quiet eloquence, tunes such as "Days of My Youth," "Akaka Falls," "Hi'ilawe," "Pua Olena," "White Sandy Beach Of Hawai'i" and "Aloha Oe" are transformed into suitable anthems for making baby sleep, cleansing the mind and soul, and reflecting on the joys of nature. A couple of tracks ("Kanaka Waiwai," "Queen's Jubilee") also possess comforting mana'o that could be applied to bereavement.
• The outlook: These gems have a music-box charm.
• Our take: Wonderful mood piece for that special moment or occasion.

"Kanaka Waiwai" by William Daquioag. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

Reach Wayne Harada by e-mailing wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, phoning 525-8067 or faxing 525-8055.