ISLAND SOUNDS
Brew Moon sessions result in tasty CDs

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Friday jams have resulted in a savory pupu entry for home consumption.

And bless Na Palapalai; traditional Hawaiian music is alive and well in their second album.

"LIVE SESSIONS ON THE MOON" by Brickwood Galuteria with Imai and Friends; Riptide Records

Genre: World music; hints of jazz; four-part harmonies.

Distinguishing notes: Galuteria and Imaikalani Young (long-time musical buddies) have become as much of a tradition at the Brew Moon at Ward Centre as those finger-licking-good ribs. The Aloha Friday music sticks with you, too, from the title song by Gordon Broad that extols the restaurant.

Among the hot buttons are "Nani Waimea" and "Kuwili" (old-style harmonics in the tradition of the Invitations), "Quiet Village" (an homage to the master himself, Martin Denny, though this is a Galuteria vocal, delivered with a South Seas syncopation); "Hula O Makee" (which typifies the splendid reflection/recollection mood of the act and its repertoire).

For variety, Gordon Alfapaoa does "Chances Are" in the spirit of Johnny Mathis. Greg Kaneaiakala is the other member of the group.

The outlook: This is one of those infrequent "live" in the dining-room sessions that include Galuteria delivering commentary and intros to reflect the virtues of the performances; however, some editing might have been prudent, to skip that "welcome to the Brew Moon" patter midway through the session. For restaurateur Marcus Bender, who co-produced, this is an extension of his night-life niceties.

Our take: Best-ever session by Galuteria, a deejay and TV host by trade, who still has "it" when it comes to making merry music.

"Nani Waimea" by Brickwood Galuteria with Imai and Friends. Audio sample available in mp3.

"KE 'ALA BEAUTY" by Na Palapalai; Koops 2 Entertainment

Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.

Distinguishing notes: Five-time Na Hoku Hanohano Award winners for 2002's "Makani 'Olu'olu" debut, Na Palapalai is back with new vigor and new glory.

The group — Kuana Torres, Kehau Tamure and Keao Costa — has assembled an exquisite 15-tune collection, including five originals.

The title cut pays tribute to Torres' home at Pi'ihonua, on the slopes of Mauna Kea on the Big Island. It's vintage soul from pioneer music-makers. Indeed, the trio preserves the customary traditional Hawaiian sound with elan and precision, bringing dignity and sharing rare artistry with a current generation of listeners.

Its style is high on ha'i, the falsetto that magically brings the listener to another time and place. Lyrics enable nonspeakers of Hawaiian to tune in when they turn on; clearly, Na Palapalai serves a feast for the ears in such endearing Hawaiiana as "Ku'u 'aina Ho'oheno," "Waiulu," "Waiomina" and "Ko Ma'i Ho'eu'eu." Hula enthusiasts have much to explore and embrace, too.

The outlook: Should be the group's next award winner; already a best seller, and with reason.

Our take: Producer Shawn Pimental of Koops 2 Entertainment is as much of a prime mover as Na Palapalai in preserving traditional Hawaiian sounds.

"Ku'u 'aina Ho'oheno" by Na Palapalai. Audio sample available in mp3.

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