Matt makes history

Honolulu Symphony Pops conductor Matt Catingub is making modern music history this week as his new Matt Catingub Orchestra of Hawaii records its debut album at the Hawaii Theatre.

The historic aspect of the sessions is that Catingub is doing the album the old-fashioned way: live, instead of recording the instruments on separate tracks. Another old-time element is that this is a 39-piece orchestra with full string and brass sections -- not a combo with synthesizers.

The orchestra's debut album will contain what are described as "15 of the most beautiful songs ever recorded," and feature guest artists Na Leo, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Jimmy Borges, Keali'i Reichel, the Brothers Cazimero and Raiatea Helm.

Catingub plans to introduce his orchestra in concert at the "Return to Romance" music festival in March.

JOHN BERGER / JBERGER@STARBULLETIN.COM
Record producer Allen Sviridoff, left, talks with Matt Catingub onstage after the musicians are finished for the day.

JOHN BERGER / JBERGER@STARBULLETIN.COM
Na Leo -- Angie Morales, left, Lehua Kalima Heine and Nalani Choy -- performs on the album.

JOHN BERGER / JBERGER@STARBULLETIN.COM
Drummer Darryl Pellegrini, left, bassist Steve Jones and guitarist Jeff Peterson are the MCOoH rhythm section.

John Berger has covered the local entertainment scene since 1972. Contact him at jberger@starbulletin.com.