Sunburn
ready for exposure
Mana: Sunburn (Monarch Recordings)
SUNBURN's debut EP was released haphazardly but got play on 97.5 KPOI last year. The band distinguished itself at Poifest '97 when it had to cover for late-arriving mainland acts by playing an extended set. The group's first full-length album finds Sunburn ready for national attention.
Sunburn addresses familiar topics of political cynicism, lost love and social alienation with wit and passion. Clean arrangements, proficient musicianship and powerful vocals enhance the impact of the lyrics.
"Calling Me, Killing Me" expresses the frustration of modern headbangers in classic terms. "Sex Drive" articulates contradictory aspects of love and desire. "Memories of You" is a radio-ready portrait of a heart in pain.
Hawaii Calls Presents Hawaii's Greatest Hits Vol. 2: various (Hula)
BENNY Kalama, Danny Kaleikini, Haunani Kahalewai, James Kaopuiki and steel guitarist Jules Ah See are featured in this repackaged collection of classic "Hawaii Calls" recordings. The selections range from Hawaiian classics ( "Hi'ilawe" ) to hapa-haole standards and Hollywood Hawaiiana ( "I Am Hawaii" ). Kalama's falsetto rendition of "Beyond the Reef" is the brightest gem.
Annotation is minimal, but malihini will learn the basic meaning of the Hawaiian songs.
On the Rock of Righteousness: various (On the Rock Ministries International)
THIS collection of original Christian music is the work of composer/producer Tim Strickland. He wrote almost all of the music and lyrics, did the arrangements, and played several instruments. Liann Colazzo, Rodney Iaea and Reggie & Lady Love Smith share credit as vocalists.
Strickland writes Christian songs rather than sermons delivered over elevator music. His arrangements generally give his vocalists more than karaoke-style synthetics to sing to. "All the Way to Heaven" is a powerful blend of gospel and rock. "Maile, the Lord Loves You Too" and "Little Kristin Michelle" are lighter but also impressive. "Raptured," written by pianist Debi Tenney, is a beautiful instrumental interlude.
See Record Reviews for some of John Berger's past reviews.
See Aloha Worldwide for locals living away.
John Berger, who has covered the local
entertainment scene since 1972, writes reviews of recordings
produced by Hawaii artists. See the Star-Bulletin's Home Zone
section on Fridays for the latest reviews.