Some gems sparkle
in DeLima’s soloJus' Kelly Boy: Kelly Boy (KDE)
KAPENA, Kelly DeLima and Timo and Tiva Tatofi, signed with Ken Kahanu Post in 1986, won two Hoku Awards in 1988, and has been hot ever since. That makes DeLima's solo album puzzling. It was released without formal announcement two months ago and finds him doing what he's done for 12 years -- but without the Tatofis.
DeLima is a memorable singer and ukulele virtuoso. He adds local-style rap lite to a loopy make-over of the Miracles' "Tears of A Clown" and makes it his most imaginative pop remake. "Tropical Lady," recorded by Kapena in 1986, is another gem. Three new songs show his range as a writer.
"It Won't Be Long" is a solid testament of Christian faith, but other remakes are basic local pop and Jawaiian stuff with the usual excess synthetic filler. Stronger arrangements would better display his talent.
Just The Norm: Norm (Neos Productions)
SINGER/songwriter Norm Thompson Jr. debuts with 10 original songs and the inevitable remakes for Hawaii's remake happy radio stations. The originals are far more interesting. He writes of growing up in a loving family, falling in love, heartbreak and going to his high school reunion (Kahuku, 1983).
"Hawaiian Born" should get local air play. It has a commercial, local reggae beat, a positive multi-cultural message, lots of synthesized instruments and a Fiji sound-alike guest rapper.
Other originals show Norm equally appealing with soulful "slow jams." Conversely, formula remakes of "Shake You Down" and "Unchained Melody" add no fresh insights.
Unshattered: Crucible (Unshattered Records)
VOCALIST Mike Ching rants and roars through a dense wall of noise in this memorable album of original apocalyptic rock.
The group mourns the erosion of personal freedom and challenges the listener to risk death fighting for freedom rather than accept apathetic slavery. Tipper Gore won't like this one!
The group and its music is particularly remarkable given the overall state of the local rock scene. Crucible should be heard by all fans of this musical genre.
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.
