Posted on: Sunday, June 25, 2006
ISLAND SOUNDS
Kapono melds rock, Hawaiian in 'Wild'
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Henry Kapono adds a rock edge to traditional Hawaiian classics on his wildly inventive "The Wild Hawaiian," which will likely ruffle some feathers.
Father-and-two-sons group Manoa DNA makes an auspicious debut. Think James Taylor meets Island rhythms and harmonies.
"THE WILD HAWAIIAN" BY HENRY KAPONO; ECLECTIC RECORDS
Genre: Hawaiian with a rock edge
Distinguishing notes: Henry Kapono, he of Cecilio and Kapono, always has been ahead of the musical curve. On his latest CD he imposes a hard-rock wallop on widely familiar tracks; the result will certainly open ears and trigger debates. Imagine Jimi Hendrix tackling Hawaiian classics with his searing guitar licks — all the while chanting, more than singing, the familiar lyrics. From the opening "Na Ali'i" to the closing "Ke Aloha O Ka Haku — Queen's Prayer," the traditional Queen Lili'uokalani signature, Kapono puts a wild stamp on well-trod turf. On the "Queen's Prayer" Kapono's vocals express a sense of lament, apropos considering the tune was penned by the queen for her niece Princess Ka'iulani while imprisoned at 'Iolani Palace. Soak up the emotion in Kapono's spin on "Hi'ilawe," which reinvents the Gabby Pahinui signature without stealing its thunder. He makes "He'eia" another socko chant, set to an upbeat, high-decibel anthem. Considering his heritage (Kapono is pure Hawaiian), his elders may consider the album blasphemy; methinks he's mostly injected adrenaline and new dynamics into the staid. Edith Kanaka'ole's "E Ho Mai" (with a hand-jive tempo) and Keola Naumu's "Hilo Hanakahi" (a celebration of makahiki), are redefined for a new generation of listeners. Kapono has also composed a couple of tracks that celebrate his allegiance to his home state, including "Hawai'i Aloha (A Mau Loa)."
The outlook: A daring contemporary take on traditional Hawaiiana; it's as intoxicating as three rounds of mai tais.
Our take: Open up your eyes, your ears, your heart; there is much wisdom and invention in this "Wild" journey.
"FOLLOW ME" BY MANOA DNA; ROY SAKUMA RECORDS
Genre: Adult contemporary, world music
Distinguishing notes: Manoa DNA is a family trio, with dad Lloyd Kawakami, sons Nick on 'ukulele and Alex on guitar. The Kawakamis are known in the fashion world for their Iolani Sportswear gear, but Alex is also a prolific composer, contributing nine originals among the 13 tracks. The feel-good vibes, with uke-accented tracks like "Follow Me," are reminiscent of Pure Heart. With mentor Roy Sakuma (a ukesman, too) co-producing, Manoa DNA's debut CD has inviting genes — solid instrumentation, cohesive harmonies and local roots ("Haleakala," "No'eno'e Maika'i Ke Aloha"). Tracks like "Going Home" have a strong sense of place; and the covers, specifically Crosby Stills & Nash's "Wasted on the Way" and Cecilio Rodriguez's "Home (And I'm Staying This Time)" attest to their influences in vocal dynamics.
The outlook: The family that plays together, stays together — a foundation that speaks volumes about 'ohana and commitment.
Our take: A splendid debut by a versatile combo with a bright future.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
