ISLAND SOUNDS
Fusion of instruments, voices provide 'Healing' soundscape

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

It's a particularly good week for diversity — a new age instrumental disc is poised as the ultimate companion for lomilomi listening, a budding 'ukulele soloist demonstrates he has a bright future, a veteran Waikiki club singer seeks an audience and a Jawaiian band splashes back on the scene with its second CD.

"Hawaiian Healing Journey: The Journey Begins" by Steve Jones and Bryan Kessler; Wire & Wood Music

Distinguishing notes: In an era of precise demographics, why not a CD for those undergoing a journey of relaxation, a cruise of healing, a moment of silent meditation? Two Island musicians-composers, Bryan Kessler (formerly of the Hawaiian Style Band) and Steve Jones, a jazz musician and producer, join forces in developing a wondrous soundscape. The unabashedly pointed suggestion here is to put the disc in your CD player while you undergo a lomilomi massage; you will envision 'i'iwi birds soaring poetically, clouds dancing, waves lapping, leaves rustling — all to rhapsodic and relaxing strums of guitarist Kessler and bassist Jones. They've enlisted hep from a number of pals who play keyboards, nose flute, recorder, percussion, steel guitar. Blaine Kia does a chant; there's a bit of narration by Regina Igarashi; and Maila Gibson's voice is sparingly heard.

The outlook: Even if you don't meditate or get a massage, this is a disc that will rub you the right way. Tranquil visions appear; you can imagine sunrises, sunsets or a walk through wilderness — limited only by your imagination.

Our take: Every CD library should have this disc; one listen and your soul will be cleansed, ready for the (auwe) stress of the workaday.

"The Journey Begins" by Steve Jones and Bryan Kessler. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"Dreamspeaking" by Imua Garza; Go Aloha Entertainment

Distinguishing notes: Imua Garza is a star of the future, a driving force behind The Opihi Pickers, who steps into the limelight as a solo 'ukulele stylist. Garza composes music besides strumming; this solo outing defines his artistry very nicely, thank you, and reflects his uke vocabulary with an eloquence that at once chills and thrills — and brings on a happy smile. His style ranges from playful ("Jinxy Finds the Catnip") to soulful ("'Ukulele Blue"), from romantic ("Faith Everlasting") to hypnotic ("Midnight Run").

The outlook: A reassuring musical talent — he plays, writes, producers, engineers; all he now needs is validation from an appreciate listening (and applauding) audience.

Our take: Garza is the Jake Shimabukuro of tomorrow — minus the theatrics.

"Jinxy Finds the Catnip" by Imua Garza. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

"This is My Paradise" by Augie Rey; no label

Distinguishing notes: Augie Rey is a seasoned performer on Waikiki's club circuit; clearly, this is a labor of love and long overdue compilation of his vocal prowess. The title song is his signature tune, reflecting his love of his 'aina. A number of other originals ("If Love Is Just a Feeling," "Love Isn't Easy," "I Want Some Love Insurance) are collaborations with Lynne Ross and Cecilio Rodrigues. Daughter Tahiti makes an appearance on "At Last," and Rey's Latin-jazz fire shines on "Mahalo 4 the Sunshine of Your Love."

The outlook: A positive debut that rings true of Rey's musical integrity, but likely one that's difficult to sell to radio.

Our take: Should be a hot commodity at his club gigs.

"Shadow Reef" by the Pipeline Band; Ke Nui Road Productions

Distinguishing notes: For its second CD, the Pipeline Band still is in the water (the first was "Island Surfer Girl"). "Ready to Rock," the opening track, is a quiet lure; swim with the seven-member ensemble, and you're floating with lead singer Troy Cacal and his buddies. "Pipeline Slide," "Fisherman," Shadow Reef" demonstration diversity and depth; "Need Your Love" and "Miss You" are other crisp cuts.

The outlook: A band ready for the big push; should be appealing to the reggae-Jawaiian followers.

Our take: The original tunes (not covers) should help establish the Pipeliners as a fresh and creative force.

"Pipeline Slide" by Pipeline Band. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats.

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