ISLAND SOUNDS
New releases from Ku'uipo Kumukahi, Fiji and Na Hokupa

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A Hawaiian songbird assembles a first-rate collection of classic Hawaiiana. A do-all contemporary artist revisits a cluster of his trademark cuts. An under-appreciated group recalls the era of four-part harmony.

In other words, 'ono listening on the CD front.

"HO'ULU'ULU 'EKAHI" by Ku'uipo Kumukahi; Ke'alohi Corp.

Distinguishing notes: Ku'uipo Kumukahi puts her imprint on 15 tunes in what initially seems to be a best-of collection. Not so; the CD title means "one collection," and the intent here is to assemble a wide range of tunes that suit Kumukahi's vast talents as singer, musician, educator, producer and award-winner. Consequently, she plays 'ukulele, bass and guitar, and sings through a feast of favorites, including "Yellow Ginger Blossoms," "E Ku'u Morning Dew," "Ka Pua Melia," "Ke Kihapai a'o 'Ululani." You hear the devotion, reverence and emotion in her vocals and precision in her musicianship.

The outlook: Much to admire, much to explore, with styles and tempos well suited for hula enthusiasts.

Our take: A wonderful blend of old and new in a revealing quiltwork of Hawaiiana.

"Yellow Ginger Blossoms" by Ku'uipo Kumukahi. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"BEST OF FIJI" by Fiji; Ricochet Records

Genre: Contemporary Island; some reggae.

Distinguishing notes: Fiji has been a driving force in Island music for many years now; this best-of compilation, of titles from four earlier CDs, reflect the synthesis of his Polynesian upbringing with modern sounds. He rocks, he sways, he soars as mainstream soloist and background singer. This CD defines his soul, through alternating waves of delight — from a chorale-type "Chant of the Islands" to a hip and rousing "Warrior of Love," from the dance-floor fave "Riddim of Life" to the hypnotic "Sosefina." "Irresistable Woman," with the misspelled "irresistible," is a bonus track, and yes, is irresistibly Fiji-an.

The outlook: Even if you own all or most of Fiji's recent CDs, this one's a keeper — not necessarily his best-ever work, but clearly a mirror of his remarkable and resourceful talent.

Our take: A good bet for Christmas — giving and receiving. "the perfect harmony" by Na Hokupa; Moon Surfer Productions

"Warrior of Love" by Fiji. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"THE PERFECT HARMONY" by Na Hokupa; Moon Surfer Productions

Distinguishing notes: Na Hokupa recalls the era of Buddy Fo & the Invitations or early Ho'okena — rich in four-part harmony, smart in turning back the time to those backyard kanikapila. The fare plugs into the memory bank with powerful returns and rewards — witness the phraseology and sentiment in "Hawai'i Calls," "Lei Pakalana," "E Lili'u E," and "Makee Ailana," with occasional spurts of unexpected joy, like on "Twilight in Hawai'i" and "Malia My Tita."

A charmer from Paul Martinez, arranger, and his harmonic tunesters, Max Sanchez, Mitchell Sanchez, Andy Llanos and Dennis Apeles.

The outlook: A bona fide charmer, from an under-appreciated ensemble, with plenty of good vibrations rendered in the old-school style.

Our take: A gem for nostalgia buffs, a quick introduction into a vital segment of Hawai'i's musical past for the younger crowd.

"Hawai'i Calls" by Na Hokupa. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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