ISLAND SOUNDS
Kahaunahele CD an immersion in Hawaiian language

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A prolific vocalist doubles as a Hawaiiana scholar; a biggie on the contemporary front continues his tuneful growth; a next-generation artist seeks her own identity.

These are the characteristics of this week's CDs.

• Genre: Contemporary and traditional Hawaiian.
• Distinguishing notes: Kainani Kahaunaele is a Hawaiian-language scholar and fluent in the Hawaiian language. This debut CD is intended to be a teaching tool in Hawaiian immersion classes but also is genuinely entertaining; thus, it doubles as a "commercial" entity for 'Aha Punana Leo, the movement that upholds the traditions of language in learning and in life. Her original music switches from classic Hawaiian roots to contemporary fare; she even tosses in an English-language tune, "So Delicious," which has a smoldering blues-jazz flavor and could emerge as a breakaway hit from the roster. There are ample range and substance in Kahaunaele's songbag; her frisky "E Mau" has a navigational posture, about the canoe Makali'i, and seems to be a natural for a hula; the tune is preceded by a splendid chant. Take notice, too: Manu Boyd (Ho'okena) guests on "Mehanaokala."
• The outlook: One of the year's most enchanting discoveries, with meticulous attention to detail and excellence through and through; the lyric-laden liner notes, in Hawaiian and in English, are exceptional; a real contender, not only for the educational perspective but a darn good listen from which we all can learn.
• Our take: Kahaunaele is a star in the making.

"So Delicious" by Kainani Kahaumaele. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

• Genre: Adult contemporary.
• Distinguishing notes: Once considered a possible heir apparent to Bruddah Iz, Baba B. continues his musical journey with a collection of contemporary tunes, including four from his own pen ("One More Time," "Oh Baby," "God Bless the USA," "Party Tonight"). His borrowed bits suit his vocal posture, particularly in the sweet-blues genre of Babyface's "Everytime I Close My Eyes," on which Ilona Irvine guest-sings. And yes, there are a couple of reggae-Jawaiian elements ("Party Tonight," "So Much Trouble in the World").
• The outlook: A splendid portrait of an artist still in his stride; his prowess with contemporary elements should appeal to mixmasters for dance-floor action.
• Our take: "God Bless the USA" is not to be confused with the patriotic Lee Greenwood signature; Baba's version is about island pride, with residual anti-war sentiments. With tension on the global front, radio programmers may want to flag this track.

"One More Time" by Baba B. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

• Genre: Traditional and contemporary Hawaiian.
• Distinguishing notes: Bond, the daughter of Kaua'i singer-composer Larry Rivera, sings "cherished songs of Kaua'i" with affection and joy, with invaluable guidance and wisdom from one of the Garden Island's own, veteran singer Bill Kaiwa. Dad's "The Legend of Kalalau" is a charming discovery, rendered in English (except for an in-Hawaiian fade-out finish), but her strength and sizzle come from Hawaiian fare such as "Kaua'i Nani E," "Lawa'i Nani" and "Wailua."
• The outlook: A splendid introduction to a next-generation talent; lyrics and liner notes enhance the CD.
• Our take: Sweet Leilani will doubtlessly bond with audiences.

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