• Distinguishing notes: Kona (Erving "Kona" Chang), born and raised in Waimanalo, was a former drummer with Tropical Knights. He's evolved into a guitar-strumming crooner with a tender and soulful voice, easily summed up in the opening track, "• Am," a folk-oriented ballad with a refreshing and relaxing aura. Kona wrote the words and music, co-engineered the CD, and plays guitar (acoustic and electric), bass and drums and percussion. While ballads appear to be his forte, he adds a mild tempo and soft-rock riffs to some of the tunes ("Goin' Nowhere," "Luv 2 Hate You," "Jus Me and You"). Think James Taylor or John Mayer with a local spin.

• The outlook: Could be a biggie for Kona, with deejay support and exposure in an upcoming concert.

• Our take: If romantic reflection is your cup of tea, this one is terrific.

"I Am" by Kona. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

"THE CONTENTS OF TRUTH" by Native Blend; Flyin' Hawaiian Entertainment

• Distinguishing notes: Native Blend is a combo of seven — singer Trudy Torricer (who also strums 'ukulele), drummer Junior Lafaele, singer-guitarist Chris Iyoki, singer-guitarist Greg Sakamoto, singer-keyboarder Lester Gantan (who also produced the CD), singer-guitarist Chris Mercado and singer bassist Josh Oguma. Because group members also composed the music, this one is loaded with originals of varying textures. "Drink It Up" is a contagious, even intoxicating, take on hoisting a drink. Much of the song parade has Island rhythm tangents — "Dem People Smoke Da Pakalolo," "Brown Is Beautiful" and "Listen to Your Heart" need little explanation. Guest artists such as B.E.T. and Jenn add reggae elements and Jawaiian jamming.

• The outlook: You can listen, you can dance. You can even cuddle to this one, but it helps to be young at heart.

• Our take: A party-hearty disc, for sure.

"I'll Never Get Over You Getting Over Me" by Native Blend featuring B.E.T.. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

"SMILE" by Terry D.; Tiki Entertainment

• Distinguishing notes: Terry D. is a "Hawai'i Stars" survivor who sings with several local bands; here she tackles a range of songs that reflect her diverse interests. Hawaiian? She turns in tender readings of "Pua Ahihi" and "Waika." Soul? She breezes through "Respect/Chain of Fools." Romantic mood? The title song is a finger-snapping love ditty in the "Fever" style. Country ballad? "Broken Hearted" fills the bill. Contemporary pop stuff? "Like About You" and "Give Me a Reason" are contagious, the more you hear them.

• The outlook: Nice first-time entry; getting airplay could be a hurdle, because Terry embraces what's dear to her heart, not what's commercially viable.

• Our take: Terry D. deserves a lot of smileage out of "Smile."

"Pua Ahihi" by Terry D. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

"TITA OUT!" by Kathy Collins; Rip Tide Records

• Distinguishing notes: Kathy Collins is a Maui wowie, a comedian who surely has lived some of the funnies she shares. She inhabits her Tita with earnest reflection, peopled with recollections from her small-kid time. Her bits are more vignettes than gags with punch lines; she is first and foremost a storyteller, which is how this CD came about: She was on stage for a talk-story type appearance at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (which is how and why friend Willie K. shows up here). Lots of funny gems, some chicken-skin tales, and a few cultural references.

• The outlook: There's value in capturing reminiscences from the past, and when they're comedic, the tales are also entertaining.

• Our take: Never underestimate the power — and prowess — of a Tita.

"Titas & Teedas" by Kathy Collins. Audio sample available in mp3 format.