The ladies of Na Leo, above, release their 19th studio album, "E Hula Mai Kakou," on Tuesday.
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Cazimeros, Na Leo still going strong after decades on stage
WITH SO many local recording artists struggling for success, it's comforting to know some industry veterans are able to change with the times and still make a profit.
The Brothers Cazimero are a good example. Robert and Roland accepted a lifetime achievement award this week at the 31st annual Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, but they aren't just sitting back and relaxing after more than three decades in the game. They just released a new album, "Destiny," and Robert starred in a recent documentary about his role as kumu hula with Halau Na Kamalei (check out my blog for a video interview with the Cazimeros).
Na Leo is another group with no plans to retire anytime soon. After signing a distribution deal with Koch, the ladies are set to release their 19th studio album next week.
"E Hula Mai Kakou" is due in stores (and iTunes) on Tuesday. The release marks the start of Na Leo's 25th anniversary celebration, which lasts until August 2009 and includes their most extensive U.S. mainland tour to date.
With help from producer Shawn Pimental, the ladies have produced an instant classic for hula halau around the world. "E Hula Mai Kakou" features a number of original compositions, plus new material written by Puakea Nogelmeier, Violet Hughes and Kahauanu Lake.
Na Leo will head for the mainland next week, with a pair of concerts scheduled in San Diego with Keali'i Reichel and Weldon Kekauoha before moving on to Los Angeles, Seattle and Las Vegas for the Fourth of July weekend. They'll be joined in Seattle and Vegas by Reichel, Ernie Cruz Jr. and Kaukahi.
Visit my blog for music samples, or go to www.naleo.net to purchase online ...
NEW PARTIES: After a stint with Peter Maharaj at Aaron's, Mike Scalera is moving to the Ilikai Hotel. He'll partner with Hawaii Red Magazine and IMF Visions to host "The Penthouse" at Sarento's on Friday, with return engagements planned for July 4 and July 11 ... Russell Tanoue is back at Chai's Island Bistro on a weekly basis. "Rush" makes its debut on Friday, with free gift bags for the first 100 ladies and $3 drinks before 11 p.m. The first week will also serve as a birthday celebration for Sensually Yours' Marybeth Jenkins ... The Vertical Junkies, Defiant Parties and Universoul Clothing join forces to host "Hawaiiwood" at Planet Hollywood on Saturday. Doors open at 10 p.m. for the 18-and-over crowd, with no dress code and DJ Durtie Rice on the decks. Dress up as your favorite celebrity and get in free before 11:30 p.m. ...
FRIDAY'S PICKS: Tempo Valley headlines an "Outlaw Party" at Ong King, with opening sets by It's Oh So Quiet, Violetta Beretta and DJs Gonzales and Asia1. Doors open at 9 p.m. ... The 808 Scene Zine celebrates its June release with a hip-hop showcase at Don Ho's. "Release" will feature live performances by Mistah D.R.E.D., Samoan Dynasty, C-Gutta, Bladez Whyte, Maryanne and Jeyetik ... Get some culture to go with that cocktail at the opening for "SKIN/WALL," a new tattoo showcase at the Mercury Bar. A free reception for featured artists Cody Zeek, Amy Wagner and Lucky will start around 8 p.m. Call 384-5706 ...
SATURDAY'S PICKS: Head back to the Mercury for "Speakeasy," the monthly hosted by Cherry Blossom Cabaret. Swampa ZZ will perform, with DJ Dougie spinning; save $2 off cover if you dress in prom theme ... Uncle's Fish Market and Grill is a new venue for local music, with Starr Kalahiki on Thursdays and rotating artists on weekends. Saturday brings Mailani Makainai to the stage, with backup from Dr. Trey and J-RoQ. Call 275-0063 ... G-Style Productions presents "Lovers Rock 3" at Pipeline Cafe, with live performances by Ekolu, Kohomua, Next G and Rebel Souljahz. Doors open at 9 p.m.