Makana = music

Makana returns home after an international tour, to debut new material along with Hawaiian slack-key and classic favorites at the Hawaiian Hut, beginning 8:45 p.m. today and tomorrow.

Makana's music transcends category and trend by integrating elements of folk, rock, ethnic, classical, bluegrass, jazz, traditional, ambient and Hawaiian slack key. The result is innovation and the charting of new sonic frontiers with deep ties to tradition.

Expect world-class guitar work, expressive vocals and special guests, with a full electric band including Jan Jeffries and Steve Inglis flying in from the West Coast, Lono Kaumeheiwa on bass and noseflute, Justin James on traps, rap poet Kealoha, Kai on didgeridoo, and more who want to be part of this music event.

At 26, Makana has already performed for more than 18 years and has opened for Sting, Santana, No Doubt, Jack Johnson, Michael Franti and Spearhead and Baaba Maal and shared the stage with Andreas Vollenweider, Bruddah Iz, Keali'i Reichel, Clay Walker and others. He has performed in England, Japan, China, Germany, Canada, Tahiti, Bali and throughout the United States.

Tickets are $20 plus booking fee, or $25 at the door. For more information, call 550-TIKS (8457).