An upstart group with valid Hawaiian concerns makes a very appealing CD debut that raises consciousness, through contemporary motifs, about long-standing Island issues.
A local songbird sees and feels the merits of a Hawaiian-jazz marriage.
An expatriate plays and sings Hawaiian songs ... in Arizona.
"SIMPLE ISLAND PEOPLE" by Kupa'aina
• Genre: World music.
• Distinguishing notes: Kupa'aina (which means "a people familiar with a place") is a group of performers who treasure their roots and value their culture; the troupers come from coastal communities between Kahalu'u and Wai'anae. Its nontraditional music utilizes modern riffs and styles — an almost theatrical posture — as it queries and dares and lures you in with its hybrid Hawaiian "message" that draws from the past and points to the future. This quest to challenge and question is best exemplified in the opening track, "Night Marcher," which boasts a forceful lead voice, a lyric that beckons thinking and a vision that promotes action. "Kewalo" also bears Hawaiian concerns about land rights, freedom and responsibility. Clearly, there's breadth and seriousness in this endeavor. There's a worthy back story to this release: Halau Ku Mana New Century Public Charter School is part of the inspirational experience, with portions of the proceeds from sales going to this school that is housed at Paradise Park.
• The outlook: This is a very appealing and intriguing listening experience and a journey worth inspecting and examining. Too bad lyrics are not provided in the CD packaging, because there's literary merit that should be shared.
• Our take: Kupa'aina is on to something here; be among the first to drum up support.
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"Night Marcher" by Kupa'aina. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
"JAZZ HAWAIIAN STYLE" by Keahi Conjugacion; Hula Records
• Genre: Island jazz.
• Distinguishing notes: Keahi Conjugacion knows the value of the connections between Hawaiian and jazz. Here, she's a mixologist who's able to concoct savory blends with her heartfelt manner. Her fusion of "Kiss Me Love" and "Ku'u Ipo," dubbed the "Sweetheart Medley," typifies the invention and care of her style. Keahi, who is the sister of Brother Noland and Tony Conjugacion, knows her turf well, enunciating, scat-singing, seducing and illuminating whatever she embraces ... because she feels her music. The arrangements, like the delivery, are first-rate and star-quality-great, with abundant appeal to both Hawaiiana fans and jazz buffs alike.
• The outlook: Conjugacion has never sounded better; she's in command and will be in great demand in the years ahead.
• Our take: Conjugacion inhabits the music she embraces.
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"Sweetheart Medley" by Keahi Conjugacion. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
"A WALK ACROSS THE OCEAN" by Moon Kahele
• Genre: Hawaiian slack key (with some vocals).
• Distinguishing notes: Dana "Moon" Kahele is a Hawaiian musician who works with his band, Ka Hele Kane O Hawai'i, on what he calls "the island of Arizona." He has a valid appreciation of ki ho'alu, the guitar-strumming technique that has become a widely accepted art form. His instrumentals are a lot more eloquent than his vocals, but consider that he's got the spirit and desire to maintain his Island foothold in Arizona. The CD title literally means he's intending to cross the large pond and make his imprint in Hawai'i.
• The outlook: Not living and working here may hamper Kahele's promotional opportunities.
• Our take: You can take the man out of Hawai'i, but you can't take Hawai'i out of the man.
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"Jus La'Dat" by Moon Kahele. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
Reach Wayne Harada at 525-8067, wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, or fax 525-8055.
