ISLAND SOUNDS
CD collections serve 'ono stuff for the ears

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A star-studded compilation of island songs by such favorites as Keali'i Reichel, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom and Willie K and an assembly of local and international reggae and Jawaiian troupers make this a reflective but refreshing week for musical excursions.

"PRIDE OF PUNAHELE II" by various artists; Pride of Punahele Records

• Genre: Traditional Hawaiian, contemporary Hawaiian.
• Distinguishing notes: A star-studded line-up of 13 tracks by eight artists makes this a quick classic: Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom ("Ku'u Lei Hoku" and "Ka'ena"), Keali'i Reichel ("Melelana," "Lahainaluna," and "The Road Never Ends"), Willie K ("My Sweet Sweetie" and "Meleana e"), Ernie Cruz Jr. ("Fires of Pele"), O'Brien Eselu ("Kahalaopuna"), Robi Kahakalau ("Ke Ali'i O Na Lani" and "Keiki O Ka 'Aina"), the Lim Family ("Pua 'Olena") and Pali ("For You"). Lyrics and source of original tunes are added value; the Reichel cut of "Lahainaluna" (not the Kui Lee song, with Ho'okena providing backup) is a bonus track. A range of styles and tunes paint a vivid picture of Hawai'i.
• The outlook: Great introductory CD for an entry-level fan of island music; grand reaffirmation of the calibre of work from Punahele.
• Our take: A mixed-plate goodie; 'ono stuff for the ears; something for everyone here.

"Ku'u Lei Hoku" by Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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"ISLAND LOVE SHACK 3" by various artists; Neos Productions

• Genre: Jawaiian, island rhythms.
• Distinguishing notes: The third installment of a sleek compilation of local and national reggae-oriented sounds is brimming with that dance hall sound, led by such gems as Justin and Bitty McLean's "The Call," Butch Helemano's "In the World," B.E.T. and Pato Brown's "New Day," Sister Carol's "70 Sup' m Pieces of Bob, Steel Pulse's "Sound System," Solanna's "Take Me Down," and Chaka Demus & Pliers' "Tease Me."
• The outlook: Jawaiian and reggae continue to dominate radio playlists; this 18-title collection is a natural addition.
• Our take: This is one big party of jammin' sounds.

"The Call" by Justin and Bitty McLean. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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