ISLAND SOUNDS
Women shine on new releases
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Call it a ladies' night out. This week's CD reviews explore the musical worlds of three women. Two are named Kim; one is a newcomer who won the right to record, the other is a veteran who has released an album that may have more commercial potential than her previous recordings. The third disc is by a considerable talent whose work is marred a bit by overproduction.
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"Bridges" by Kim (Discos Tropical).
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Distinguishing notes: Kim is a talent on the rise, the winner of the 2001 Battle for the Bash. This is her prize, a chance to be heard and accepted by the public. As a former Brown Bags to Stardom and Road to Fame finisher, Kim is no stranger to amateur nights.
Finally emerging a winner has brought her closer to realizing her dream to sing. Clearly, she's at the starting gate, with a couple of special tunes ("Dreaming Again," penned by Jim Beloff and Herb Ohta, who also plays 'ukulele) and "Sooner With Goodbye" (composed by Justin, who turns it into a duet).
With deejay support, she could be on the way. The girl wrestlers know her at Punahou, where she coaches the team. Dance aficionados may recognize her, since she teaches at the Rosalie Woodson Dance Academy.
The outlook: An earnest project with a feel-good flavor.
Our take: Wrestling with a music career could be a toughie, but Kim's surely one to watch.
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"Sooner With Goodbye" by Kim. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
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"Give and Take" by Kim Char Meredith (Passionate Women).
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Distinguishing notes: This is Meredith's third outing, and the growing confidence shows. Her original songs have reach and expansive appeal, which could have something to do with the fact that this one is produced by Grammy-nominated Hobo House on the Hill.
The lesbian performer also shows a willingness to extend her appeal across gender-specific lines. "You Want In," "Language of My Love," Mystery of You" and "Fly" have seductive appeal. "Sunrise to Sunrise" is a particular joy to embrace, reflecting the essence of her soul.
The outlook: Meredith's most commercial entry yet.
Our take: Since she opened up a Melissa Etheridge concert, she's becoming Hawai'i's answer to that star.
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"Sunrise to Sunrise" by Kim Char Meredith. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
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"Silent Whispers" by Banig (Double Play Entertainment).
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Distinguishing notes: Banig is best known in the Filipino community; she's been performing on TV, in clubs and in venues across the country. Her sophomore release reflects her affinity for dance clubs, with techno-pop elements on the likes of "Move Your Body," "If You Wanna Know," "Boogie on the Dance Floor." The sound is hip, now, nocturnal, the kind you'd hear on a crowded dance floor.
The outlook: Banig has a promising voice and a certain presence, but production values — no, gimmicks — tend to cloud her talent. Fewer effects, more straightforward vocals would certainly clear the air.
Our take: Will the third time be the charm?
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"Move Your Body" by Banig. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, phone 525-8067 or fax 525-8055.
