ISLAND SOUNDS
'Ko'olina' inspired by love, musical heritage

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

A family that plays together sways together in an inspirational CD; a sampler of contemporary Hawaiian tracks is a dandy introduction to a galaxy of troupers; an Elvis imitator — or is he? — makes his debut.

Listen up.

"KO'OLINA ... A PLACE OF REJOICING" by Kathy Paulo-Hirai and Keoki Hirai; Apaulo Records

Genre: Inspirational music, some Hawaiian.

Distinguishing notes: Kathy is part of a very established, much-endeared musical family; her brother is the jazz saxophonist Michael Paulo; her parents are Akemi, the singer, and Rene Paulo, the pianist. This CD reflects facets of her past, enhances her present and signals her future. The inspirational tracks include a contemporary reading of "How Great Thou Art" and "Great Is Thy Faithfulness." Originals range from her "Yodel Praise" to a collaborative effort (with son Georden co-composing with mom and uncle Michael) on "Don't Be Afraid." Her Island allegiance is reflected in "Ku'u Pua I Paoakalani." Dad Rene plays keyboards, and reworked his "WaimŒnalo Moon" to fit the Ko'olina theme on "Ko'olina Moon." Brother Michael is on sax and keyboards, mom Akemi chimes in on "The Old Rugged Cross." "Hawai'i Five-O/Wipeout," the concluding instrumental medley, is a misfit among these tunes.

The outlook: An intriguing blend of music by an obviously close family.

Our take: An ambitious and relaxing outing; like dropping in on a Paulo family Sunday jam.

"How Great Thou Art" by Kathy Paulo-Hirai and Keoki Hirai. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"ISLAND STYLE" by various artists; Palm Records

Genre: Compilation of adult contemporary tunes, including some Hawaiian titles.

Distinguishing notes: A dozen artists, representing various Island styles, provide a quick snapshot of the range of talents in our galaxy here. There's variety a-plenty here, from a first-time recording by Desiree Cruz on "Eo Palolo;" her brothers Ernie ("One Day Soon") and John ("Shine O") are nicely represented. Lorna Lim's "Mokihana Lullaby" and Bryan Kessler's "Language of the Heart" reflect two distinctive disciplines (Hawaiian vs. pop), Charles M. Brotman (who produced the session) provides dependable guitar strokes and the big hit is the Mana'o Company's "Drop Baby Drop/Who Loves You Pretty Baby."

The outlook: Variety amid outstanding production values.

Our take: Contemporary Hawai'i never sounded better.

"Eo Palolo" by Desiree Cruz. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"FRAME OF MIND" by Bill Haupu Burgher; 50th State Enterprises

Genre: Adult contemporary.

Distinguishing notes: Burgher is a sometimes Elvis impressionist, though that aspect of his career is not mentioned. So why a photo of him in The King's regalia, as part of the CD package? Burgher does a cluster of Presley signatures ("Treat Me Nice," "Can't Help Fallin' in Love," "Blue Hawaii" and "Crying in the Chapel"), occasionally wired to the Elvis sound, and it's all listenable, likeable stuff. His "own" voice sweetens a number of rock-era classics: "Let It Be Me," "A Love Song" and "Don't Pull Your Love." Richard Natto (formerly of Toma/Natto, now of the Society of Seven Las Vegas) helped produce and mix the session.

The outlook: This is a product and project caught between a rock and a hard pace — the question is, is this an Elvis tribute outing or not?

Our take: A pleasant voice, though the mission remains uncertain.

"Treat Me Nice" by Bill Haupu Burgher. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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