Cazimeros' CD on Grammys ballot
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Christmas came early for The Brothers Cazimero this year, as far as Robert is concerned.
He stepped off a flight from Japan on Tuesday to news that The Caz's "Some Call It Aloha ... Don't Tell" is one of five Hawai'i CDs making the final ballot of the 2005 Grammy Awards that will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Feb. 13.
"I'm really excited; it's a great step for Hawaiian music," said Robert. "I thought my gift would come from Tiffany's this year; I never imagined it would be from the Grammys."
The nomination is a boost to the duo's favorite holiday, and a prelude to The Caz's performances today through Sunday, with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, in the Christmas pops concerts at Blaisdell Concert Hall.
Roland said that staying home while Robert traveled has enabled him to learn his Christmas lyrics, practice his chords, and be in step for the concerts.
"I had two rehearsals with Robert before he left, and interestingly, I know my words," joked Roland. "It's Robert who's not getting the words. Maybe I'll have to help him out."
Robert attended a Christmas party in Japan, "at this beautiful place called Arashiyama — stormy mountain." In the spirit of the season, he performed a song, too.
"It's a busy time," said Robert. "Because next year, we're celebrating 30 years (with his Halau Na Kamalei), and we're going back to Merrie Monarch."
He's keeping his options open, however, to possibly attend the Grammys.
The pops song list will include "Christmas Time This Year," from "A Charlie Brown Christmas," and such classics as "Hawaiian Santa," "Me and My Teddy Bear," and "Little Drummer Boy."
"Unfortunately, none of these will be arranged with the orchestra," Robert said.
Roland expects to have fun with "The Chipmunk Song."
They both miss the ol' days, when The Caz Christmas shows embraced hula dancers, spectacle and a stage dressed up in Christmas finery.
"Maybe we can do 'Christmas in July,' " said Robert. "I just read that somewhere, some people do that."
"It would be fun, but a lot of work, but Robert sets up the stage so nicely," Roland said.
Reach Wayne Harada at 525-8067, wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, or fax 525-8055.
