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Peterson's CD reinterprets Island classics | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper
Posted on: Sunday, October 1, 2006

ISLAND SOUNDS
 Peterson's CD reinterprets Island classics

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

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Jeff Peterson continues to explore and export his stunning ki ho'alu artistry, composing new tunes and revisiting classics with exquisite results.

Hawaiian falsetto fans should find joy in the latest edition of an Aloha Festivals-related CD.

"SLACK KEY GUITAR: THE ARTISTRY OF JEFF PETERSON" BY JEFF PETERSON; PALM RECORDS

  • Genre: Ki ho'alu instrumentals.

  • Distinguishing notes: With Hawaiian slack-key music dominating the Hawaiian Grammy Awards for two consecutive years, it's not surprising for Peterson, a seasoned soloist and a member of the first victorious Grammy conglomeration, to continue his exploration of Island music. He's written eight of the 14 entries here and puts his spin on a couple of favored classics ("Whee Ha Swing," "Kimo Hula," "Hi'ilawe," "Kalama'ula," "Ahe Lau Makani").

    The tranquil sound, the precise strum work, the ethereal images evoked by his originals ("Kapahulu Hula," "Endless Summer Slack Key," "Maluhia Slack Key") combine for a distinctive, defining virtual tour of the Islands. His manner is impeccable, his style exquisite; the CD is perfection.

  • The outlook: Peterson is among the best of the new breed of ki ho'alu kingpins; this release will expand his fan base, elevate his star and empower his reputation. Not bad for a non-Hawaiian who plays like a native Hawaiian.

  • Our take: A classic sound resourcefully reinterpreted for a global audience.

    "ALOHA FESTIVALS FALSETTO CONTEST WINNERS, VOL. 7" BY VARIOUS ARTISTS; HULA RECORDS

  • Genre: Traditional Hawaiian, in the leo ki'eki'e (falsetto) singing mode.

  • Distinguishing notes: With the Aloha Festivals theme of "Na Paniolo Nui O Hawai'i (The Great Cowboys of Hawai'i)," this collection of upper-register singing is timely and traditional. The Island cowboys of the past embraced the Mexican vaqueros into their paniolo culture and leo ki'eki'e was off and humming.

    The popularity of this genre can be measured by the range of talent heard here; some are non-Hawaiian, some are budding Island stars; all are blessed with the ability to hold those high notes and render the requisite ha'i, or split note. Tracks that are particularly appealing: Bill Wynne's "Ku'u Ipo Ku'u Aloha Poina 'Ole," Hiroshi Okada's "Noho Paipai," Benson Kam's "None Hula," Kalei Bridges' "Hawaiian Cowboy" and Ronnie Kaohelauli'i's " 'Ulupalakua."

    A hallmark of Hula Records, the enlightening liner notes again help the novice learn about the falsetto tradition.

  • The outlook: The ongoing falsetto series, pegged to the annual Aloha Festivals competition, continues a mission to perpetuate the tradition and enables newbie fans to tune in.

  • Our take: High notes for this compilation of upperregister vocals.

    Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
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