ISLAND SOUNDS
'Slow Time' returns with two new tracks

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Go Jimmy Go is back with a re-issue CD that offers two new tracks. It's still a powerful introduction to the local ska band.

Out Maui way, a compilation enables future acts a chance to bask in the joy of a CD forum.

"SLOW TIME" by Go Jimmy Go; Moon Room Records.

Distinguishing notes: Go Jimmy Go's earlier CD has been dusted off the shelf, remastered with add-ons, spruced up graphically, and re-released, aimed at those who only now are discovering this local favorite. Originally released in 2000, "Time" still is fresh and pertinent. Fun prevails — via such tracks as "Bang the Skillet," "Jemima," "Miss Argentina" and "Supersonic." Front man Jason "Bison" Friedmann still hurls a charismatic pitch; and the gang is intact, of course (meaning you can seek out which Go guy you adore most — Ian Ashley, Tino Olsen, Cameron Wright, Tyson Balmores, Fernando Pacheco, Eric White or Lindy Patterson. The new gems — "Plantation" and "Guenon" — are an incentive for those who already have the original disc to fork out bucks to get this re-issue.

The outlook: Go Jimmy Go still is on the go — and you can go with their flow with this one.

Our take: A great listen then, a better listen now.

"Bang the Skillet" by Go Jimmy Go. Audio sample available in mp3 formats.

"MAUI STYLE" by various artists; Lyri-Cool Productions

Distinguishing notes: Maui long has been a resource for terrific disc finds; think Keali'i Reichel, Hapa, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Willie K and Uluwehi Guerrero. This sampler of 11 tracks, by pop acts, could eventually land a breakout artist. The roster includes Pi'ilani Arias ("Don't Know How"), Dez & the Hawaiian Home Boy ("Give Me Your Love"), Mana 'Ohana ("Paradise"), Jason J-Dawg Sadang ("Baby Come Back," "Why/Kala'e Manini") and more. The format of blending fresh talent on a formal CD is not a new notion; there's strength in numbers and collectively, the artists now have a full-on album.

The outlook: Great to see if you can "discover" a future mainstream act.

Our take: Maui still has a lot of untapped talent.

"Don't Know How" by Pi'ilani Arias. Audio sample available in mp3 formats.

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