He blends the tongue and tempo of his ancestors with the spirit and the tones of his youthful generation with alternating focus. For instance, he chants on "Ka'u, Ke One Hanau," borrowing the language of grandmother Edith Kanaka'ole in a rendering she would approve; then the poetry of his "Kulanihako'i" is supplemented by more-modern chanting nuances.

He is sweet and reflective on "Lani Kau Keha," sharing thoughts of Haleakala with anticipation and respect. He takes another chant by "Grams" (Edith Kanaka'ole) and shapes "Noho Ana I Hilo" into another ceremonial piece with deep sense of time and place.

Kanaka'ole has fun, too, notably on "Na Pu'u 'Eha," a mele by Pele Hanoa, on which he sings in a higher register (read: nonchant voice), beckoning hula stylists to dance along, in backyard kanikapila fashion.

Lyrics are wisely included in the liner booklet. The disc is a satisfying reminder that some young acts are looking to the past to provide a mirror of a tradition for future generations. You may not understand the lyrics, but the music and the performance are clearly phenomenal, laced with passion and savvy.

The title track, which means "strive for the highest," epitomizes the values of the group. While linked with authentic Hawaiiana, the CD's forte, there are periodic departures such as the in-English "Heavenly Hawai'i" and "My Beautiful Hawai'i." The signature "Royal Hawaiian Hotel" is here, along with a clever "waltz medley" combining "'Akahi Ho'i," "Adios Kealoha" and "He Lei No Kalakaua."

As is the Hula Records tradition, original and updated liner notes, complete with lyrics and vintage photographs, enhance the nostalgic package.

If you grew up in the same era, you'll rekindle memories through Uchino's fingertips and arrangements (Uchino's, with Pierre Grill). The stroll down memory lane — all with simple, uncluttered romantic delivery — include "Sixteen Candles," "Venus," "Dreamy Eyes," "Earth Angel," "Only You," "My Special Angel," "Devoted to You" and "Donna." The vocals or the familiar arrangements of the originals may be missing, but you'll recall the 45 rpm discs, the jukeboxes and the local appearances of the original hitmaker crew that included The Crests, Frankie Avalon, Johnny Tillotson, The Platters and Ritchie Valens.