Keali'i Reichel's "Kukahi" DVD raises the bar in concert documentation, providing the viewer with a visually compelling and passionate portrait of his hula, vocal and chanting artistry.

In keeping with his tradition of honoring his kupuna — the elders from whom he learned his craft — Reichel also pays homage to places in mele after mele, initially in the kahiko (traditional) mode and eventually segueing into the 'auana (contemporary). This release is a wonderment, encapsulating the many facets of Reichel, and filling in the blanks on who he is and why.

Hula remains his domain. The artistry is coupled with symmetry of movement, with a palette of eye-appealing tones reflected in the faces and forms of the dancers as well as their traditional and modern costumes. In his hands, hula becomes theater, a means by which Reichel can share elements of his roots and his life.

There's Reichel the chanter, clad in malo and displaying his signature tattoos, in kahiko pose. He chants and performs oli and hula for Halau Ke'alaokamaile, his 'ohana of hula disciples; the dances have spiritual implications, scoping the riches of the past, recalling the mentors and resources of yesteryear.

There's a nod to modernity, with Reichel decked out with a head mike. He changes into casual clothes in his transformation to concert artist, strumming guitar and reviving some trademark tunes such as "Ka 'Eha A Ke Aloha," "E O Mai" and "Maunaleo."

Guest hula soloist Keali'i Ceballos provides syncopation and storytelling on "Ipo Lei Momi," a number full of double-entendres; and guest singer Ben Vegas adds a pop flavor with his enormously popular "Pua Nani," which shared chart supremacy with Reichel in the past.

You'll find your own highlights and faves. Surely, one segment on "Na Lani 'Eha," four royals (Kalakaua, Likelike, Leleiohoku and Lili'uokalani) honored through song and dance, will put the notion of remembering the mentors into vivid perspective. Another might be the tribute to Uncle George Holoka'i, another revered teacher, who made an imprint on Reichel; Edgy Lee directed this segment.

Director Dennis Mahaffay has the right touch, framing the entire production and enabling the viewer to replay or imagine the tempo of the evening, from the opening sequence to the "Hawai'i Aloha" finale. And because "Kukahi" was taped at Blaisdell Concert Hall, a lucky few will see themselves in repeated crowd shots, reflecting the pleasure of being there.

Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.