• Genre: Compilation of traditional Hawaiian.

• Distinguishing notes: Hiroyuki Sakai is known the world over as French Iron Chef, thanks to the popular Food Network TV show, "Iron Chef." If you expect cooking tips here, don't — though the liner includes a recipe. This compilation serves as either an appetizer or dessert to a sumptuous meal comprised of an array of Island music bringing Chef Sakai joy and pleasure when he's away from the Islands (which he visits frequently).

Thus, call this pupu for the ears — a sampler of tunes and styles by some of Hawai'i's ranking chefs of music. Like The Makaha Sons ("Ke Alaula"), Ku'uipo Kumukahi ("Na Wai 'Elima O Ka'u"), Maunalua ("Sanoe"), Raiatea Helm ("He'eia") and Ike Pono ("Ka'ano'i Pua").

• The outlook: Many styles, moods and artists — a journey of discovery for those unfamiliar with these musicians.

• Our take: A novel idea, though not new — and a means to "feed" your soul.

"Ke Alaula" by the Makaha Sons. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

• Genre: Reissue; traditional Hawaiian.

• Distinguishing notes: Mahi Beamer has earned legendary status for his work in Hawaiian music over the years. This 1959 Capitol Records staple has been revived for oldsters who knew Beamer "when," and for a new generation of listeners who have not yet enjoyed his musical magic. Here, Beamer (a tenor) explores his upper-register falsetto tones (probably a tad lower now, in his mature state), which caress some standards — "Kawohikukapulani," "Pupu Hinuhinu," "Lei 'Ilima," "Na Hala O Naue," "He'eia," "Ke Kali Nei Au")— with effortless simplicity and grace.

• The outlook: At last ... something to replace the worn-out vinyl version.

• Our take: A classic that's still remarkably relevant.

"Halau Wai'anae" by Mahi Beamer. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

• Genre: Christian/Christmas.

• Distinguishing notes: Christina Youngs' debut CD single pairs a Christian-themed song with the holiday standby, "Silent Night." She is the winner of 2003's "Al Waterson and You" karaoke sing-out at Don Ho's Island Grill, and this recording with Jon de Mello's Mountain Apple label was one of the prizes — along with the chance to perform with Ho in Las Vegas and in Waikiki. Considering the difficulty in getting airplay of Christian music (there are stations programming the music, but the competition is stiff), the lead song — performed with natural grace and charm — may take a back seat to the Christmas tune, performed a cappella, in Hawaiian and in English.

• The outlook: As is the Mountain Apple tradition, the single is produced with smarts, enabling the new voice to shimmer and shine; Christina gets help from Michelle Youngs on "Silent Night" and together, they make it a holy "Night."

• Our take: Youngs is a performer to watch in the future; a full-on CD is beckoning.

"Your Love" by Christina Youngs. Audio sample available in mp3 format.