Posted on: Sunday, April 17, 2005

ISLAND SOUNDS
'Legacy' change of pace for energetic Kapena

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Kapena diehards have a chance to renew ties with the group's somewhat nostalgic Hawaiian sound in a freshly minted compilation of old favorites; fans who only know the group's high-energy club music will be in for a surprise.

Two other acts are shopping for attention with debut CDs.

"HAWAIIAN LEGACY" by Kapena; KDE Records

• Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.

• Distinguishing notes: Kapena has endured as a popular recording and show group, sashaying from Hawaiian music to pop, with regular jaunts into the contemporary realm. This compilation of 12 old-style Hawaiian favorites slows down the pace considerably, putting a somewhat nostalgic spin to Kapena's multitextured style. This song parade might be deemed "new" to those only familiar with Kapena's energetic Jawaiian-fueled "live" sound that has dominated its career in the past, say, decade. Club-hoppers may find this Hawaiian motif a pleasant surprise. Here, hula favorites such as "Waikiki," "Kalua" and "Queen's Jubilee" abound; "Kalamaula" and "Wai O Ke Ani Ani" are among other popular entries audiences will likely embrace — the former known for Kelly Boy's falsetto dynamics, the latter with a contagious tap-along tempo. This is the group's 18th album, which includes original members Kelly Boy DeLima on vocals, 'ukulele and ki ho'alu; Tivaini Tatofi on vocals and bass; and Teimoni Tatofi on vocals and guitar; with Kawika Kahiapo providing additional guitar work. The cover is a touch of today: DeLima's daughter Kalena represents the thrust the group is making into the new millennium.

• The outlook: A romantic change of pace for Kapena; for hula students, this one's loaded with savvy material.

• Our take: This is pure Kapena, with ex quisite Hawaiian heart, emphasizing heritage and tradition.

"Waikiki" by Kapena. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

"OF LOVE AND LUST" by Lowie Boy (with Shango); Tiki Entertainment

• Genre: Contemporary, world music.

• Distinguishing notes: Hipster Lowie Boy sings and uncorks a couple of spoken-word skits in this intriguing release that sounds better the more you listen. Best bets: "Won't Stop Lovin' You," "Whatever Turns You On" and "K.I.S.S.I.N.G.," all from the pen of Lowie Boy Ashley-Moleta. The sound is a fusion of blues, ska, soul.

• The outlook: Clearly, this is for the young and venturesome.

• Our take: Great CD title that provokes attention.

"Won't Stop Lovin' You" by Lowie Boy. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

"ONE OF THOSE DAYS" by Kawao; Jus-Us Kawao Records

• Genre: Contemporary, Jawaiian, world music.

• Distinguishing notes: Kawao is Walt Grilho and China Boy Hinoi, who offer 11 tunes, mostly self-written originals. Their songs have a life of their own, shifting moods and tempos with confidence and ease. Most have English lyrics; some have Hawaiian phrases; 'ukulele accompaniment dominates. There are a couple of covers, too, giving Kawao a spectrum of formats to explore. "One of Those Days" and "Grandma's Eyes" are two takes on the personalized mini-stories the duo shares. The liner notes accompanying the lyrics are attractively packaged, journal-style.

• The outlook: Still at the starting gate, Kawao needs deejay support and club exposure to connect with audiences.

• Our take: Kawao is awaiting a brush with stardom.

"One of Those Days" by Kawao. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

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