ISLAND SOUNDS
Proven talents step solidly into limelight

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A Hawaiian soloist, former member of a popular reconfigured act, takes a giant step in the right direction, tackling tunes that exhibit his maturing talent and reflect on his roots.

A one-time kiddie singer, now a teen, debuts her solo CD; daddy's still involved in her career.

A husband-wife team shares their love for the high notes in a cherished falsetto performance.

Check out these candidates for the winner's circle:

"KANAKA MAOLI" by Weldon Kekauoha & Tapa Groove; 'Ohelo Records.

Genre: Contemporary Hawaiian, traditional Hawaiian, contemporary — a mixed bag.

Distinguishing notes: Kekauoha shows further growth, making good on his Most Promising Artist win in the annual Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. He's a former member of The Mana'o Company, whose members (John Baricuatro Jr., Salaam Tillman, Kaulana Pakele) have regrouped here as Tapa Groove. The title song epitomizes Kekauoha's power and polish; he wrote the earnestly rendered anthem with historical, sociological and political implications. "He Mele No Anuhea" and "Ke Ahalele 'Opu'upu'u" show commitment to his Hawaiian roots. For TMC loyalists, "Girl You Got Me" and "Freestyle" feature feel-good elements and sweet harmonies.

The outlook: Kekauoha moves front-and-center to the limelight as a talent to reckon with. If he looks familiar, it's because he hasn't quit his day job as a Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant.

Our take: A satisfying encounter with an artist whose values and virtues reflect his commitment to his island roots.

"He Mele No Anuhea" by Weldon Kekauoha & Tapa Groove. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"ON MY MIND" by Tiera Kekaula; A Guava Ding Thing.

Genre: Island rhythms, contemporary.

Distinguishing notes: Tiera was 4 when she recorded "He Ono La" with dad Robert Kekaula; she's now 16, has a solo CD, and is off and running as one of Young Hawai'i's rising stars. Here, she has a field day with a myriad of styles that make her difficult to pigeonhole. With ballads such as "On My Mind" and "What You Mean to Me," she resonates genuine amour. On "My Mind's Doin' Circles," she sizzles and bounces to a Jawaiian beat. On "Akaku," she's refreshingly Hawaiian. On "Shame on Me for Kissing You With My Eyes Closed Tight," she projects a country-western flavor (and what a lovely title) reminiscent of Shania Twain or the Dixie Chicks.

The outlook: With Sean Na'auao and dad Kekaula producing, Tiera's in good hands. Crisp production values enhance, rather than detract from, her talent.

Our take: Bring on the tiara: Tiera is poised to become a reigning queen of island songbirds.

"On My Mind" by Tiera Kekaula. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"ULULANI" by Richard and Ululani Ho'opi'i; Mountain Apple Co.

Genre: Hawaiian falsetto, traditional Hawaiian.

Distinguishing notes: Richard Ho'opi'i and his brother Sol have been a cherished musical duo for years, Maui-based wizards at leo ki'eki'e and traditional island sounds. Here, Richard and wife Ululani provide vocal harmony, though the focus is on Richard's rich, resonant tones. Among the favored tracks: "Aloha Kaua'i," "Ke 'Ala O Ka Rose," "O Kalena Kai," "Makee 'Ailana" and "Ka Loke." The couple's old-school take is a primer for falsetto wannabes.

The outlook: While falsetto rules, not everything is performed in the high-note stance. Check out the bouncy 'ukulele-backed "Malihini Mele."

Our take: Yet another example of a stellar falsetto form.

"Aloha Kaua'i" by Richard and Ululani Ho'opi'i. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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