Quiet player steps out in a 'Hwn' way

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

A contemporary Hawaiian musician, a key player in a variety of groups for three decades, could find his niche in the island galaxy of stars with a satisfying exploration of his vocals and guitar playing.

A trio with a fondness for island rhythms employs harmonies to score points.

A soloist blends Hawaiian and Pacific elements with blues and reggae ideal for dance-hall action, and his originals have something to say.

• Genre: Contemporary Hawaiian — or should it be CntmpryHwn, in honor of his shorthand idiosyncrasy?

• Distinguishing notes: Delightful, carefree vocal romps and guitarmanship from one of Hawai'i's under-appreciated artists. A lively tempo accentuates most tunes, characterized by Kaawa's stellar 12-string guitar and a pliable voice that is in a class of its own. Kaawa composes in the traditional Hawaiian manner, and also adopts proven favorites, but his delivery is current and driven by today's attitudes and mana'o. Among his winning originals (in collaboration with Kealiihokulani): "Hanohano O Hawai'i," "Panics," "Sunrise@Sandy's" and "He Wehi No Ke Kai." He also puts his fresh imprint onto several chestnuts: "Kuu Pete," "Hilo Hanakahi," "Nanea Kou Maka i Ka Lealea," and "Na Ali'i."

• The outlook: You've probably felt and heard Kaawa's presence in the artistry of a handful of acts over the past three decades, from Hokule'a to Anuenue, from the Mike Kaawa Trio to Na Keonimana, from Native Hawaiian Band to Na 'Oiwi. This, surely, will be his ticket to the front-and-center limelight and ultimate recognition.

• Our take: A wonderful and satisfying achievement by a musician who finally comes into his own.

"He Wehi No Ke Kai" by Mike Kaawa. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

• Genre: Island rhythms, reggae.

• Distinguishing notes: Produced by Sean Na'auao, Kahiau is Chy Kanino, Eric Leolani Ho and Mana Kahala. Chy (short for Cheyenne) is composer and co-author of five of the 10 songs here; the fare is summer-oriented, with party moods prevailing, and reggae undercurrents defining the sound. "Forward," "Bring Yo' Love to Me" and "Country Party" are originals searching for a following; "Pass the Duchie," "Survivin'" and "Real Situation" are covers seeking Kahiau ownership.

• The outlook: Na'auao's contemporary savvy fuels a contagious and hip repertoire that clearly is geared for the young and adventurous, the dance crowd with a hearty celebratory appetite.

• Our take: A tight, edgy sound for those who love the hot and the hip.

"Forward" by Kahiau. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

• Genre: Island rhythms, reggae.

• Distinguishing notes: Norm Thompson, who doesn't normally use his surname in billing, has emerged as a dance hall dude who neatly blends Polynesian elements to blues and reggae, while maintaining harmonies with his occasional side trips to hip-hop haven. Some entries are from his solo pen ("Party," "Groove Witcha"), others are collaborations ("True Warriors," "We Are Hawaiian," "My Only Love," "Stay With Me," "Happy Birthday Darling"). His themes run the gamut, from humble hometown loyalties to shopping, from unabashed romance to birthday sentimentality.

• The outlook: Norm not only has an accessible style and voice; he has something to say.

• Our take: Norm's form is top-notch as his star continues to rise.

"Stay With Me" by Norm. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.