• Genre: Contemporary, pop.

• Distinguishing notes: Yvonne Elliman, who has been chirping at several community happenings (most recently with the Honolulu Symphony, in a pops concert), is re-establishing her recording career with this extended four-song CD that brings her fans up to date on where she is musically. "Simple Needs" is a sweetly romantic keepsake that embodies some of her feelings about life back in Hawai'i and boasts virtues of simplicity and eloquence of lyrics and emotions, ranging from commitment to reflection, from miniscule observation to universal wisdom ... about the need to awaken and consider all that is lovely about life — ultimately, the need for companionship. (Two versions are rendered, each with its own personality, the second one with a mood of greeting a new day as you get up, somewhat drowsy, in the morning). "Slippery Slide" has dance (yes, even disco) appeal, with its lively struts, and while written in 2003, has unstated implications about the reckless wealthy who abuse the rules, hinting though not stating one of the obvious targets, Martha Stewart. "Steady as You Go," about alcoholism, is a remake of an earlier recording with Steve Cropper, and "The Queen of Clean" is an unexpected pleasure, a very personal (and humorous) home recording for her mom, Jean, whose maternal duties of giving birth and housekeeping are documented with earnest gratitude and zeal. Production values bring out Elliman's experienced voice, without flashy cover-up voice-overs or instrumentation.

• The outlook: The diva from "Jesus Christ Superstar" and a former reluctant queen of disco is back; if this is a sample of what a full-on album would deliver, Elliman is on the verge of something sweet.

• Our take: Bet on "Simple Needs." Simply put, Elliman is ripe for another round of hurrahs.

"Simple Needs" by Yvonne Elliman. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

• Genre: Hawaiian/hapa-haole, with a territorial feel.

• Distinguishing notes: The Hula Honeys are Robyn Mehealani Kneubuhl and Ginger Johnson, who perform in a style reminiscent of Territorial Hawai'i, boat day, or Harry Owens at The Royal Hawaiian. The two women have famous parents who made an impact in the history of the Islands; Kneubuhl's mom is Ol' Golden Throat, Emma Veary, and Johnson's father is Bob Johnson, who once based his photography dynasty at the Hawaiian Village (Kaiser before Hilton) resort. The singers grew up separately and met on Maui while raising families. And they have concocted a Honey of a sound: innocent, nostalgic, idyllic, recalling the tropics and quiet, gentler times. Everything here is worth a listen: "My Little Grass Shack," "Moon of Manakoora," "I'll Weave a Lei of Stars for You." Johnson also is a prolific tunesmith, penning new charmers in the old format, including "Pua Pakalana," "Where the Sea Meets the Shore." And Kneubuhl and Johnson collaborate on the title song.

• The outlook: Hawaiian paradise never sounded so good; enchantment is what the Honeys are all about.

• Our take: A Honey of a find; if you adore Na Leo, Puamana and "Territorial Airwaves," you'll embrace the Hula Honeys.

"Life Just Got Sweeter" by the Hula Honeys. Audio sample available in mp3 format.