• Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.

• Distinguishing notes: Eddie Kamae & the Sons of Hawai'i have been one of the driving forces in the renaissance of Hawaiian music for at least four decades, with Kamae himself accomplishing a lot in a career spanning five decades. This compilation, many featuring Kamae's lead vocals, is a dandy companion to his just-published biography, "Hawaiian Son: The Life and Music of Eddie Kamae" ('Ai Pohaku Press), by James D. Houston, a chronicler and collaborator of Kamae's pioneering film career, and Kamae. A related DVD, "The History of the Sons of Hawai'i," provides more insights and reflection on this Hawaiian renaissance man. Though limited to 12 titles (including "Ke Ala A Ka Jeep," "Waipi'o Valley Song," "Kela Mea Whiffa" and "Mauna Kea"), the CD demonstrates the vigor and authenticity of the Sons' musical legacy — with Kamae demonstrating prowess not only on vocals but as composer, arranger, and, of course, 'ukulele stylist. The savvy red palaka design on the package immediately designates the group's longstanding identity.

• The outlook: The Sons of Hawai'i have been the voice and syncopation of Island-style music for years; the simple arrangements, coupled with the unmistakable delivery, will make this retrospective resonate for future generations of music buffs.

• Our take: The Sons may have "retired" from active performances, but the group's imprint and impact are indelible. This is original stuff that has survived the test of time.

"Ke Ala A Ka Jeep" by Eddie Kamae. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

• Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.

• Distinguishing notes: Pa'ahana, Hawaiian for "hard-working," is an easy-on-the-ears trio composed of Douglas Tolentino, Pakala Fernandes and Kaipo Kukahiko. One quick listen, and you know the trio owes homage to such mentors as Irmgard Aluli and Puamana, Randy Oness and Kahauanu Lake, among others. The repertoire is rich in memories and tradition, with such oldies as "E Maliu Mai," "Ginger Memories," "Waikiki," "Noho Paipai" and "Aloha 'Oe" (recycled with dedication and respect to earlier versions). Even the Johnny Mercer classic, "Dream," takes on an Island flavor in this rendering. The title tune, "Soft Breezes," says it all — a whiff of Island flavors, dancing and soaring in 1950s fashion, recalling simpler times devoid of stress.

• The outlook: A natural addition to the CD library, for those who savor nostalgic tunes — typified by the coaxing posture on "Ia 'Oe E Ka La."

• Our take: Pa'ahana's stroll down memory lane is calming and relaxing.

"Soft Breezes" by Pa'ahana. Audio sample available in mp3 format.