ISLAND SOUNDS
Slack-key CDs provide marvelous listening
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Strictly slack-key — that's the week's outlook. Three CDs explore the Island repertoire, one delves into Japanese and Okinawan favorites.
"KAHEALANI" by Jeff Peterson; Hula Records
Genre: Hawaiian slack key (ki ho'alu).
Distinguishing notes: Guitarist-composer Jeff Peterson gets it all right on his newest CD. He shares originals ("Haleakala," "The Kukui Nut Run," "Hulihuli Slack Key"), interprets proven favorites to put a new spin on the oldies ("Hawai'i Aloha," "Ulupalakua," "Green Rose") and assembles an enlightening illustrated liner booklet that details elements of each of his tunes. His guitar evokes reminiscences of the places of which his tunes speak.
The outlook: This should evolve into his breakthrough album.
Our take: Quickly — add the Peterson name to the Top 10 list of slack-key giants.
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"The Kukui Nut Run" by Jeff Peterson. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
"REMEMBRANCE (OMOIDE)" by Ozzie Kotani and Steve Sano; Daniel Ho Creations
Genre: Instrumental world. music; slack-key interpretations of Japanese and Okinawan selections
Distinguishing notes: Two stellar guitarists who first collaborated on "A Taro Patch Christmas" are back with a nostalgic and quietly poignant collection of Asian titles that meld the artistry of two strummers from different worlds. Kotani is a student of Hawaiian ki ho'alu, Sano's forte is traditional classical (European) guitar. Still, the marriage is blessed with precise guitar work, recalling favorite Japanese anthems from the distant past, including "Koko Ni Sachi Ari" and "Sukiyaki (Ue Wo Muite Aruko)." The Okinawan "Bashofu" also should be familiar with those who grew up with these nearly forgotten melodies.
The outlook: Great mood-evoking impressions, suitable for simple listening, background dinner music, or that "something special" soundtrack you've sought but never found for your slide show.
Our take: Sometimes words aren't necessary to relay a message or share the voice of a by-gone generation.
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"Sukiyaki" by Ozzie Kotani and Steve Sano. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
"SLACK KEY ... IN THE KEY OF ALOHA" by Don Kauli'a; Grass Shack Records
Genre: Ki ho'alu.
Distinguishing notes: Kauli'a embellishes his slack-key instrumentals with cello ("Kealakekua Bay," "The Leina'ala," "Tears ... Aloha 9/11 Victims") in a pleasant journey for the ears, in new and familiar turf. Kauli'a has captured a clean, seductive sound (Sandy Norton is the cellist), but clearly, he also is a singer ("Nopo'opo'o" is one of several vocals). For purists, "Opihi Moemoe" and "E Lili'u E" (with Grandpa John "Puni" Kauli'a making it a duet) provide ample evidence of his skills.
The outlook: Yet another slack-key master searches for an audience.
Our take: The cello touch gives Kauli'a's sound a winning edge.
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"Kealakekua Bay" by Don Kauli'a. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
"KEAWEUALANI" by John Keawe; Homestead Productions
Genre: Ki ho'alu.
Distinguishing notes: Keawe is one of the masters of ki ho'alu; this poignant CD recalls songs and memories largely from his family. The title of the disc was his great grandfather's name, since simplified to Keawe. The selections return to simpler, gentler times and include "Hanaipoe," "Juan & Keoki" and "Hi'ilawe." The acoustic performances are relaxing, reflective. "Ku'u Lei Awapuhi" (vocal) is the bonus track.
The outlook: Keawe is part of a network of superb slack key wizards.
Our take: Add to the ki ho'alu library.
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"Hanaipoe" by John Keawe. Audio sample available in mp3 and RealAudio formats. |
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
