This compilation of new tracks and oldies is a case in point. Days after last year's earthquakes, DeLima and writer Patrick Downes created a parody of Daniel Powter's "Bad Day," a version that aired on radio. Alas, it's not on this disc because approval to record the version with local lingo, sung to Powter's melody, was declined by the publishers. Not to be defeated, DeLima and Downes reworked the tune, included here, with a melody and structure that echo "Bad Day" under the title "The Great Hawaiian Earthquake," on which he laments that, after the quake, his bad day was replete with his flashlight batteries not working, he had Vienna sausages but couldn't cook rice and there was no radio transmission save civil-defense bulletins.

Funnier, and more timely, is "Pawdagee Isle," rendered to the tune of the theme from TV's "Gilligan's Island," on which the Superferry dilemma is recounted without mentioning the ship by name, complete with references to invasive species, judges, EIS, the governor, the whales — and the weeks of frustration and fury. He unapologetically declares, "this boat was shut down by environmentalists."

Otherwise, the title tune sings the joys of Island living, including L&L's combination plate with two scoops rice, Genki sushi, rubbah slippahs, songs by Bruddah Iz, Spam from Pali Longs and a gift certificate from Alan Wong's — stuff that make Hawai'i no ka 'oi. ...

Other sung revivals range from "Covers and Pens" (Audy Kimura's "Lovers and Friends") to "Flying" (the Peter Moon Band hit that surveys airport security of shoe removals, liquids and gels in plastic bags). Plus comedic bits with DeLima evergreens like Cardinal Vermicelli and Aunty Mary Tunta.

One charming diversion: the blues-infused "Moloka'i T.M.H.," with a nod to formats and moods of yesteryear. One minor disappointment: Lono fails to provide the listener with lyrics.

Kumanu upholds cultural traditions derived from kupuna and simple elements such as respect, compassion, peace, hope, freedom and tolerance. Williams' resourceful voice gives "Malama I Ka 'Aina" its clout, sounding like an anthem from "Hair" with Hawaiian flair; Tripp's command gives "Forever Hawai'i" its power, and Rivera's precision defines a mission on "Freedom and Peace."

Kenny Loggins' "Conviction of the Heart," an expansive 6:51 version, brings relevance and definition to Kumanu's vision — and provides the essence of heart that "Earth Patriot" is trying to share.