ISLAND SOUNDS
Exquisite releases expand on tradition
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
The joys of traditional Hawaiian music live anew in two new CDs laden with rhapsodic charm, exquisite artistry and lingering impact. If you're already thinking Christmas gifts, buy one for yourself and the other to give away; you won't be disappointed.
"COOL ELEVATION" by Ho'okena; Ho'omau Inc.
Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.
Distinguishing notes: Ho'okena has evolved as the exuberant, creative chroniclers of Island themes and emotions. This new collection of 13 tracks includes seven originals and loads of charm, continuing the exhilarating, expressive cultural excursion that has been a 17-year hallmark for Manu Boyd, Horace K. Dudoit III, Glen Smith and Chris Kamaka. With its astute musical impressions linked to important places, sentiments or moments, Ho'okena has provided unending riches for students of Hawaiiana and hula. Nu'uana ("cool elevation") is the focus of several tunes, including "Home Kapaka" and "Laua'e O Nu'uanu."
The outlook: Ho'okena is always raising the bar, expanding its horizons in the process. The group also takes risks, tackling the non-Hawaiian hit "The Prayer," and tapping Puakea Nogelmeier to enrich it with Hawaiian lyrics. Ho'okena also embellishes oldies such as "Beautiful Kahana" with fertile new respect.
Our take: Ho'okena keeps the Hawaiian renaissance flame glowing.
"Ki ho'alu" by Makana; Makana Music
Genre: Ki ho'alu, traditional Hawaiian.
Distinguishing notes: Makana celebrates ki ho'alu with this vocal-instrumental outing of 14 tunes, a hana hou and a movie clip from his Hawai'i Theatre concert. The slack-key purist will find new delight in his treatments of "Moana Chimes" and "Opihi Moemoe," but there are other attention-getters, such as his traditional take on "Na Ka Pueo," "Ku'ulei 'Awapuhi" and "Makee 'Ailana." Makana turns in a few originals, pays homage to early mentor Sonny Chillingworth, and borrows from colleague-master Keola Beamer. Moods range from unabashedly romantic to unfailingly nahenahe.
The outlook: This CD coincides with Makana's Nov. 15 concert at the Hawai'i Theatre, and should provide an ample preview of what's in store.
Our take: As singer and musician, Makana's in a marvelous motif — and in full control.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, 525-8067 or fax 525-8055.
