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Island Mele
Friday, February 25, 2000
Ho‘omau delivers
more than expectedParadise:
By Ho'omau (Big D Productions - BDP 2001)FIRST impressions can be misleading. At first glance, this could be another by-the-numbers album by yet another interchangeable Jawaiian band. The contents include a Jawaiianized remake of a national hit, some local pop tunes, and a traditional Hawaiian song to show the group hasn't lost all touch with its own culture and heritage. Yet Ho'omau turns out to be more than a generic Jawaiian band.
Ho'omau founders Josh Kahula and David Wood favor originals over remakes and write catchy commercial local tunes. "Night Shade" is good local reggae-beat music, and the intro to "Funky Reggae Party" suggests they're looking beyond the sterile "island music" format.
Ho'omau also benefits from the presence of Dani-Girl Waring; her showcase number, "How Long," is another highlight.
http://www.olindaroad.com
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By John Keawe (Homestead Productions - HPCD 1005)IT isn't identified as an anthology, but Hoku winner John Keawe's latest album contains several songs first released on previous albums. "Ka'auhuhu Homestead" launched him as a recording artist in 1978. Two others are from his 1996 Christmas album. Keawe's fans won't mind the overlap.
All but Michael Martin Murphy's 1987 No. 1 country hit, "A Long Line of Love," are originals. Some tell of his love for his wife and ohana. Others speak of homelessness and abortion (he is pro-life).
Whether singing as a modern country troubadour or letting his guitar speak for him, Keawe's music is heartfelt.
keawe@interpac.net
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By Kilauea (BrainChild)KILAUEA is most likely remembered as an early vehicle for the multifaceted Daniel Ho. This anthology contains 12 tracks Ho wrote, arranged and produced. Two others are new; he apparently had no involvement with them.
The sound is basic, contemporary instrumental jazz with sax and various keyboards defining the melodies. From the tranquility of "Never Look Back" on through the expansive light funk of "Her Secret Fantasy," this is a cheery and engaging soundtrack for any introspective occasion.
http://www.brainchildrecords.com
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See Record Reviews for some 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 Today
section on Fridays for the latest reviews.
