ISLAND SOUNDS
Namahana daring at contemporary

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Namahana's back with a daring, even groundbreaking, CD in which she firmly states and shares her musical vision.

A reggae release from Maui and an old-fashioned assembly of love also are easy to appreciate.

"MY WORLD" by Namahana; Mejiros Music

• Genre: Adult contemporary.
• Distinguishing notes: An eclectic song list, with superb arrangements and attitudes, puts Namahana front and center. This is her second CD. The opening track, "My World," is recited, not sung, offering an introduction to where she's at, where she's going and what her vision is. Then she uncorks a solid, hip and mesmerizing array of tunes. "All I Want," "No More," "Will It Be You" and "I've Got News 4 U" are among the soulful, scintillating finds. If radio programmers take a gamble, she'd emerge as a much-requested voice to nurture.
• The outlook: Namahana co-authored eight of the 12 titles here; she dismisses Jawaiian and other prevailing local fads and instead goes for an adult-contemporary sound. A tune such as "Vete Al Carajo," with its seductive sexuality, is something you might expect Sade or Gloria Estefan to deliver. It's hot stuff, good enough for crossover with Mainland fans.
• Our take: A daring but delightful example of an artist in control of her fate, and willing to pave her own musical path.

"ISLAND GIRLS" by Crazy Fingers; Crazy Fingers Maui

• Genre: Island rhythms, reggae.
• Distinguishing notes: Crazy Fingers is a Maui ensemble with roots in reggae and Island rhythms. A total of 21 tracks are jammed into this one. Most tunes are by Scott Baird and Sam Green, two of the five vocalists featured. The title song sets the tempo and the theme for the rest of the set — relaxing Island-style fun, reflected in the casual and laid-back tempo of "Bounce," the aloha spirit of "Flyin' Hawaiian," the joy of "Righteousness," the rasta-fied but religious "Bless Me Lord."
• The outlook: A grab bag of Island fun; much to explore, much to embrace.
• Our take: Fingers let their songs do the talking.

"I'M GLAD THERE IS YOU" by John and Maria Naylor; Cows & Pigs Productions

• Genre: Jazz, adult contemporary.
• Distinguishing notes: This self-produced CD, by the Naylors, is rich in romance, smooth in delivery, evoking images of intimacy — at home or at a cozy club. Maria is the singer, John is the guitarist who also doubles on bass and drum programming. Their journey hits the tried-and-true: "Autumn Leaves," "How High the Moon," "Embraceable You," "A Foggy Day," "Night and Day." The Naylors are often on the club circuit; Maria, a cocktail waitress at the Mahina Lounge at the Ala Moana Hotel, often tosses in a vocal when Kit Samson is at the keyboards.
• The outlook: An old-fashioned concept ... but it still works.
• Our take: A classy labor of love — and one of simple delights.

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