ISLAND SOUNDS
Whatever the genre, these will please

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Island songs, dressed up in a cloak of jazz.

A teen chirper, in search of stardom, demonstrating remarkable growth and maturity.

Island rhythms, rendered by a reorganized group.

These await music fans in this week's CD explorations.

"SMOOTH ISLAND JAZZ" by various artists; Quiet Storm Records

Genre: Instrumental jazz, with occasional incidental vocals.

Distinguishing notes: Imagine cool Island jazz riffs imposed on a smooth and sultry selection of local favorites. Imagine tracks featuring notable singers performing outside the box — in a style and environment not commonly associated with contemporary pop or Hawaiian. You've got a sound concept that's rich, refreshing and reflective, with appeal well beyond the traditional jazz corridors. The underlying mind-blower is that seductive alto sax of Moon Brown, the "star" of this musical journey through familiar seas: "Naturally" and "Nightbird" with Malani Bilyeu doing minimal vocals; "Sittin' Around" and "Island Style" with John Cruz's hushed vocals; "About You" with Sean Na'auao's presence.

The outlook: This is the "baby" of Quiet Storm's John Iervolino, so he'll be giving this more than the usual nudge. And yes, it's different but intoxicating, the more you listen — accessible jazz for those who have been previously resistant.

Our take: A great introduction to jazz, for those who know the acts or the songs. For jazz purists it's a tasty mixed-plate sampler of cool Island songs, served with jazz seasoning.

"Naturally" featuring Malani Bilyeu. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"TANI LYNN" by Tani Lynn; Afterthought Entertainment

Genre: Adult contemporary, pop, soul.

Distinguishing notes: At 15, Tani Lynn Fujimoto displays remarkable growth and maturity as a popster; she co-wrote most songs with producers 'elan and Jason Lent. Her voice is pliable, suitable for ballads and medium-bouncing pop tunes, with Top 40 echoes of Mariah, Britney, LeAnn, Beyonce and more. Those developing pipes may lack depth and power, but they roller-coaster up and down the scale, with joy and confidence well beyond her years. So tunes such as "I Realize," "Why Do I," "I'm Gonna Be Loved," "Runaway" and "All I Need" capture a range of emotions and serve her well. Curiously, one of her best efforts is the classic George Gershwin icon, "Summertime," which extracts her power and glory.

The outlook: Stellar production values enhance the listening experience; her biggest challenge will be to outfox the child-singing aspect of her reality and reach for a broad demographic fan base.

Our take: If Hawai'i needs a star on the ascent, Tani Lynn is a worthy candidate.

"I Realize" by Tani Lynn. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"CAN'T GET ENOUGH" by the Ka'ala Boys; Neos Productions

Genre: Island rhythms.

Distinguishing notes: The Ka'ala Boys' Keoki Van Biyenburg (vocals, 'ukulele) and Rodney Bejer (vocals, bass) have invited Kaleo Kahua (drummer) and Paul Dunlap (guitar) into the band, after the illness-related departure of Elton McKeague. Reggae remains the Ka'ala Boys' focus, delivered with sweet harmonies and hypnotic Jawaiian rhythms. For their local fans, it's all a satisfying groove — from the title song down to "Sweet Sensations," from "One and Only Lover" to the title track.

The outlook: While the motif is dominated by reggae, there are sufficient departures such as the soulful "Fly You to the Moon" to help put the Boys onto the charts.

Our take: The Ka'ala Boys are up and running, launching a new chapter in its musical history — and this is an auspicious and pleasurable journey.

"Sweet Sensations" by Ka'ala Boys. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

Reach Wayne Harada at 525-8067, fax 525-8055 or wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.