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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Sunday, October 12, 2003

ISLAND SOUNDS
It's kanikapila with Kahumoku

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A Hawaiian slack-key guitarist with the gift of gab offers a backyard-jam-type live recording.

A popular anthology chugs along in its third edition.

A contemporary singer-composer seeks his niche in the local music realm.

"Footprints in the Poi" by George Kahumoku Jr.; Kealia Farms Record Co.

Genre: Hawaiian slack key and vocals, recorded live.

Distinguishing notes: Kahumoku (on lead vocals and 12-string guitar) is one of the new-generation torch-carriers of ki ho'alu; he is also a skillful storyteller, a wonderful singer and a genuine Hawaiian soul. Here, you hear the crowd respond to his banter, his sense of humor, his ability to transform a classic tune into his own. The fare runs the gamut, from the traditional "Hawaiian War Chant" to Eddie Kamae's "Ke 'Ala O Ka Jeep," from his own "Kai Malino" to Edith Kanakaole's "Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai." The fingers also do a lot of "talking," in the company of Keoki Kahumoku (vocals, 'ukulele, sixistring guitar), Bob Brozman (acoustic steel guitar) and Daniel Ho ('ukulele).

The outlook: There are stories aplenty, leading into songs that suit this kanikapila format, so this CD is as much a music box as a quick lesson in Hawaiian culture and lifestyle. Kahumoku's conversational ease, loaded with memories and factoids, is an unexpected bonus.

Our take: Think backyard jam and you'll get the essence of this informal romp by a master musician.

"Hawaiian Style 3" by various artists; Neos Productions

Genre: Anthology of Island rhythm songs.

Distinguishing notes: A successful series, assembling contemporary titles by local acts, shifts up a gear with this 18-tune collection. Among the representations: Ekolu's "Shores of Waiehu," Norm's "Lonely," Baba B's "Honey," Kawika Regidor's "Amazing," Cecilio & Kapono's "Friends," Pati's "Gotta Get Away," Kapena's "Okie Dokie Makou," Ka'ala Boys' "Kamuela Yodel," Three Plus' "Mystic Man" and Bruddah Walter's "Baby Please." Perhaps Ho'onu'a's "Good Feeling" sums up the listening response. Easy-flowing

The outlook: While it would be a help to have liner notes for each entry, the origins of most of the songs are included in the liner "catalogue" of earlier CDs by the participating artists.

Our take: Easy way to get a mixed-plate look and listen to the flavors of Island rhythms.

"Jim Major" by Jim Major; Stink Eye Records

Genre: Contemporary, pop.

Distinguishing notes: Major makes an auspicious debut with 12 new songs (all but one are from his pen) that mine contemporary pop elements. He writes and sings of loneliness, hope, love and other sentiments, tapping a bit of rock, a bit of blues, a bit of folk. "Under the Moon" reflects his upbeat, rock posture; "Bareass and Truthful" is a brooding ballad; "She Only" plays like a folk troubadour recalling a relationship. One of the best bets: a ballad,

"Angels Fall (Song for Jeff Buckley)," gentle on the ears, with personal eloquence.

The outlook: A welcome effort from someone of the pop genre; Jawaiian fanatics need to look elsewhere.

Our take: Could be a Major-domo with the right marketing.

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