ISLAND SOUNDS
Music of Hema Pa'a sweetly caresses ears

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Two left-handed musician-singers form a duo that produces an easy-to-listen-to CD. A Jamaican dude dwells on his reggae foundation. Ol' Bing Crosby has a collection with a couple of classic Island songs.

Talk about something for everyone ...

"Two Voices, One Heart" by Hema Pa'a (Hula Records).

Distinguishing notes: Hema Pa'a ("strong left") is William "Baba" Alimoot (guitarist) and Chris Kamaka (upright bassist), who both lean to the left because they are left-handed musicians who perform on right-handed instruments. Their sweet, gentle caresses, imposed upon hapa-haole, contemporary and traditional Hawaiian favorites, are the result of seasoned performances and exquisite experience. Alimoot has been a member of Pa'ani and Po'okela and also has had a hand in producing falsetto contest recordings. Kamaka, from the 'ukulele family, is an integral part of Ho'okena and has been associated with Kealohi.

The outlook: A sumptuous feast for the ears, this. If you suspect knockoffs of old favorites by a new duo, listen again. "Wahine 'Ilikea," for instance, is performed with an uptempo shuffle beat. "Catching a Wave" is a dash of tropical syncopation. "Hoku Welowelo" is a jaunty serenade about a shooting star, a sure-fire hula favorite. "Only You" is a traditional reading of a beloved oldie (yes, every bit as sweet as The Brothers Cazimero's version) and "Tewetewe" is everything kolohe as might be suggested by a skilled hula dancer. Right-on liner notes include song history and lyrics.

Our take: Hema Pa'a is as righteous and resourceful a duo as you're likely to find this year.

"Wahine 'Ilikea" by Hema Pa'a. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Rough Upbringing" by Musical Sniper (Oracabessa Records).

Distinguishing notes: This one has been simmering in my must-listen bin for a while now. Jawaiian is prevalent in this marketplace, and this CD offers a seductive song menu without excessive reggae riffs that often make this genre monotonous and repetitive. Sniper (born Robert Wilson, but also known as dancehall deejay Rappa Robert) has an impressive fix on his sound, notably on such cuts as "Stand Up Strong," "Rough Upbringing," "Paradise Syndrome" and "Party Tonight."

The outlook: If you, like me, neglected this album earlier, you might tune in. There are melodic turns from a composer who is a decent singer. Publicity and support are what he needs to jump-start this engine.

Our take: This is one Sniper who's on musical target.

"Stand Up Strong" by Musical Sniper. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Bing Crosby: A Centennial Anthology of His Decca Recordings" by Bing Crosby (MCA/Decca).

Distinguishing notes: OK, this is not what is traditionally surveyed and reviewed. However, if you've yearned for an all-encompassing collection of Crosby's signature songs, this two-disc, 50-song compilation is a keeper. There are Island ties — his cool manner and suave style live anew on "Sweet Leilani," "Blue Hawaii" and "My Isle of Golden Dreams." Yes, he helped put "Leilani," the Harry Owens goldie, on the map. Too bad, however, that his "Mele Kalikimaka," often included in contemporary films, isn't part of the roster, even if it's a Christmas ditty.

The outlook: Mostly for oldtimers who remember Crosby.

Our take: A wonderful stroll down memory lane, by one of the early purveyors of romantic ballads.

"Sweet Leilani" by Bing Crosby. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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