Jordan Segundo's first CD is finally out, meaning the "American Idol" finalist finally has realized a dream. The debut is musically and technically rich, which should help extend Segundo's lingering presence on the show biz front. And a Japanese singer offers more serenades of Hawaiian songs.
"JORDAN" by Jordan Segundo; JwS Records
• Genre: Contemporary, pop.
• Distinguishing notes: Though eliminated in the first go-round of 32 finalists in season two of "American Idol," Jordan Segundo has persevered, personifying the essence of the Fox show: to strive, to linger, to record, to reach for that gold ring. His debut self-titled CD is a catalog of riches. He is blessed, musically and technically, with tunes that build on his wholesome virtues.
With Aaron Kimura, Segundo co-composed "Be the One," a rockaballad about the vagaries of love, and with Dave Tucciarone, "Secret Fantasy," another upbeat ballad upholding the promise of romantic bliss. Tucciarone (who also produced the session) contributes "Count on My Love," a great opening track.
A sweet ballad original by Justin Young, "I'm Gonna Love You Anyway" plus a reprise (from the earlier single) of Glenn Medeiros' "So Many Reasons," with Medeiros playing piano and Maila Gibson providing backup vocals, help shape Segundo's sound.
Covers of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together," with Kanoe Gibson, Gino Vannelli's "I Just Wanna Stop" and the Isley Brothers' "For the Love of You" provide a measure of familiarity and a comfort zone that should help Segundo's bid for stardom.
• The outlook: This is the one Segundo diehards have been waiting for. His handlers and techies have enhanced his vocals with skill and style.
• Our take: Segundo's always had the good looks and the charm of an Idol; now, he has the sound.
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"Let's Stay Together" by Jordan Segundo. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
"MY JUBILEE" by Agnes Kimura; Yonezawa
• Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.
• Distinguishing notes: Agnes Kimura (she chose her surname in homage to Audy Kimura) is an accomplished Hawaiian artist in Japan — with legions of fans here, too.
She performs Island tunes with impeccable grace and charm, with a proficiency hard to match (her enunciation is simply wonderful, despite her turning words such as "aloha" to "aroha," a result of her Japanese orientation).
She ranks among the best, tackling classic favorites such as "Kipu Kai," "Hi'ilawe," "Kaua'i Beauty," "Hula O Makee" and "Waikoloa." (She displays gusto, but is less successful on the demanding "Kona Lao 'opua.")
Kimura strums 'ukulele and guitars and is prolific in slack-key uke and guitar, too. Her "Queen's Jubilee" is rendered instrumentally, on uke, and perhaps for diversity (and a nod to local requests), there's a non-Hawaiian track: "Koko Ni Sachi Ari.".
• The outlook: Kimura is an advocate and mover-and-shaker of Hawaiian music; we are impressed with her dedication and artistry.
• Our take: She often sounds like an Auntie ... and that's good.
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"Hi'ilawe" by Agnes Kimura. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
Reach Wayne Harada at 525-8067, wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, or fax 525-8055.
