ISLAND SOUNDS
Reichel, Young share their aloha for Hawai'i

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Sure-fire audience favorites by proven chart artists are among this week's offerings. Keali'i Reichel continues his hit streak and Justin Young embarks on an all-Hawaiian journey.

In short: Goodies that won't disappoint.

"Ke'alaokamaile (THE SCENT OF THE MAILE)" by Keali'i Reichel; Punahele Productions

Genre: Traditional, contemporary Hawaiian.

Distinguishing notes: Keali'i Reichel has been an exemplary resource for things and themes Hawaiian. In this very personal outing, Reichel pays homage to his past as he shapes his future, with new and old tunes that honor family members and early influences in shaping his career. "Mele 'Ohana" typifies his posture here, combining English and Hawaiian lyrics set to a lingering ballad melody composed by Damon Williams. "For the First Time" is richly romantic, blessed with the vocal presence of Lehua Kalima-Heine of Na Leo Pilimehana, and is a prime example of Reichel's ability to adapt a song outside of his normal realm. "Lahainaluna" is an homage to his alma mater, a worthy offering by a stalwart graduate, and for good-fun party fun, examine "Na 'Ono O Ka 'Aina," where you can practically taste the poke as you sip the beer. One of the best, surely, is "E Pili Mai," a song that exhibits Reichel's voice. An unexpected pleasure: a sweetly frisky version of "Pupu A'o 'Ewa," which the world knows best as "Pearly Shells," becomes unabashedly Hawaiian in his hands — and a brand new song results.

The outlook: While each tune has a special meaning in his life (a song for his tutu, his mother, and a late friend), there's universal joy and emotion in Reichel's delivery, enabling listeners to customize the songs for their own relationships. Guest appearances by John Koko, Willie K, Na Palapalai, John Kolivas, Matt Catingub and others make this fun.

Our take: The master is back, so it's time to examine his exquisite tapestry of tunes.

"Mele 'Ohana" by Keali'i Reichel. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"ONE FOOT ON SAND" by Justin Young; Poki Records

Genre: Contemporary and traditional Hawaiian.

Distinguishing notes: A joyous surprise from one of the Islands' most prolific and likeable singers-composers. A Hawaiian album! And why not? Young has aloha for the 'aina, and this 13-tune collection reflects that mana'o. The opener, "Big Yellow Taxi," becomes a quick medley when melded to "Ka Manu," enabling Joni Mitchell and Alice Namakelua tunes to frolic, side by side. He frequently demonstrates a falsetto posture on such tunes as "Lahela Ku'u Poki'i," earlier recorded by Dennis Pavao, and on "Kaili'ohe," one of his compositions that reveals his prowess in enunciation and a command of language eloquence. The title song declares his affection for Hawai'i, but several other originals by Young are worth monitoring. Overall, this is a daring and different venture for the popster.

The outlook: A refreshing journey into new territory for this prolific artist, who enlists the kokua of folks like Sonny Ching, D.J. Pratt, Barry Flanagan, John Cruz, Ilona Irvine, Jeff Rasmussen, Vergel Jepas, Cyril Pahinui and Chad Takatsugi.

Our take: An adventure that provides enduring images from a performer unafraid to stretch and explore new turf.

"Big Yellow Taxi" by Justin Young. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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