Posted on: Friday, November 17, 2006
ISLAND SOUNDS
A little gospel, revisiting a great trio, a band of six
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
A live gospel outing that has funk, soul and faith tops the CD outlook this week.
Also worth a spin: A reissue of traditional Hawaiian music by a fabled trio and the debut of a six-member group already making its mark.
"Waters of Love — Gospel Live!" by Michael Ruff; Fat Tuesday Records
Genre: Gospel with funk and soul.
Distinguishing notes: Michael Ruff is the musical force behind Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom's recent "Generation Hawai'i" CD, which he produced and contributed a couple of titles. This is a hip collection of inspirational tunes set to contemporary vibes, and it speaks volumes to a new generation of worshippers. Ruff is a vocalist and instrumentalist here, but he has several trump cards: an agile choir, and the support of others including Andrew Gouche, Gannin Arnold, Gerry Shanahan, Eric Gilliom and Fiji. It results in a sweeping tapestry of talents.
The soul-stirrers range from "Have You Seen a Change" to "On My Knees," which expand the perimeters of gospel with soul and pop elements. Brief narratives, such as the one preceding "Wonderful Jesus," may sound like an excerpt of a Sunday sermon, but the intro poignantly sets the tone and the landscape of the tune. An illustrated liner offers lyrics, for those inclined to sing along, plus liberal credits specify who's doing what — a scorecard that provides enlightenment for the listener.
Our take: Joyful noise from a joyous cast — who could easily make you a believer. This is a labor of love and faith.
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"On My Knees" by Michael Ruff. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
"The Kahauanu Lake Trio at the Kaimana Beach Hotel in Waikiki" by the Kahauanu Lake Trio; Hula Records
Genre: Reissue of traditional Hawaiian.
Distinguishing notes: The K-Lake Trio's 1968 album, first time on CD, revisits the classic sounds of 'ukulele virtuoso Lake, bassist Tommy Lake (now deceased) and guitarist Al Machida. The music is evocative of tranquil sunsets illuminated by torch lamps and accompanied by pau-hana libations and reflection. The repertoire is a stroll down memory lane, with the sashaying dance tempos on "Waikiki Hula," the romantic aura of "Lei Lokelani," and Lake's tribute to Mary Kawena Pukui, "Kawena." Bonus track: Vernamae Perkins' vocal on another Lake composition (with Maddy K. Lam), "Misty Rains and Lehua."
Our take: Memories abound in the sweet and succulent tones of the fabled group.
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"Henehene Kou 'Aka" by The Kahauanu Lake Trio. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
"The Secret's Out" by Kawao; Jus-us Kawao Records
Genre: Island rhythms, world music.
Distinguishing notes: Kawao is a six-member combo featuring Walt G., China, Kalani, CJ, Joe and Darrell, whose sound is a fusion of reggae, rap and soulful rhythms suitable for dance-hall jams. The opening track, "Here We Go," sets the tone; "Just a Little More Love" is more melodic than beat-oriented; "One Heart, One Sound" is a hand-clapping toe-tapper with catchy riffs that is audience-friendly; "All This Time" is a rockaballad that explores romance and commitment. All but one of the 11 tracks are composed by the group, so there's a creative surge within the ranks. No wonder the CD's already on the radar.
Our take: Kawao has the goods to become this year's breakout act.
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"Here We Go" by Kawao. Audio sample available in mp3 format. |
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
