Posted on: Sunday, March 5, 2006
ISLAND SOUNDS
Bruce Shimabukuro debut solid; Auntie Ida's oldies goodies
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Another Shimabukuro — that's Bruce, Jake's brother — strums out his own identity in his 'ukulele solo debut.
Better now than never to discover an old-school Hawaiian trouper, Auntie Ida Keli'i Chun.
And Katchafire catches the reggae beat, with a New Zealand twist.
"INCOGNITO" BY BRUCE SHIMABUKURO AND THE BS BAND; 'UKULELE RECORDS
Genre: 'Ukulele instrumentals (with one vocal by guitarist Eric Lee, another by Shimabukuro)
Distinguishing notes: Not hiding in his brother Jake's shadow, nor riding his coattails, Bruce Shimabukuro's solo CD launch is as exciting and precise as Jake's (who guests on guitar). Strumming skills clearly run in the family; the mix of material includes new and adopted tunes, with frenetic fingerwork as well as subtle, understated plucking. The variety in style and texture could help develop Shimabukuro's reputation. "Goodbye Again" is sweetly romantic, "Pipeline" is a guitar -and-bass update of the surf-themed classic, and Lee's vocal "Walk Me to the Stars" has a country-folksy troubadour's posture. A composer who yearns to sing, he walks the plank somewhat on a "bonus" vocal, "Bits and Pieces," prompting a query: Could this be a preview of a future vocals-and-uke CD? Note, too, that his is the first track to sign off with "kanpai" (a derivative of "banzai").
The outlook: Since Bruce used to teach with Jake when Jake ran an 'ukulele studio, there's already some appeal to his brand of ukemanship.
Our take: There's room for another Shimabukuro on the air and in your CD collection.
"MEMORIES OF OLD HAWAI'I" BY AUNTIE IDA KELI'I CHUN; HULA RECORDS
Genre: Traditional Hawaiian
Distinguishing notes: Auntie Ida is a seasoned trouper from the old school; her approach to music is straightforward, few-frills, right on target. She popularized "Ahulili" (included here), but she has not been prominent since the 1960s. With this outing, Auntie is in her element, recalling past times with songs not yet past their prime, even if they are decades old. A quick listen to her on "Pauoa Liko Lehua," "Ka Nani O Kamananui," " 'Eleu, Mikimiki" and "Kalihiwaena Aloha" (mixing Hawaiian and English lyrics) and you know this is the real deal. If you treasure Auntie Genoa Keawe, you'll adore Auntie Ida.
The outlook: This CD was four years in the making; better late than never. The review copy notes that a booklet of liner lyrics has been delayed, but is available by calling 485-2294 or (800) 756-4852 or online at www.hularecords.com.
Our take: Memories are made of these oldies, given a new life by a wondrous Auntie Ida.
"REVIVAL" BY KATCHAFIRE; MAI MUSIC
Genre: Reggae, world music
Distinguishing notes: Katchafire, in town recently, a New Zealand reggae band has a Rasta sound that's made to order for loyalists here. While the tempos are repetitive, the eight-member group's lyrics and delivery guarantee them a spot in the inner circle. "Giddy Up," "Reggae Revival" and "Bounce" are among the tracks worth lingering on. Lyrics in the liner notes add insight to the music.
The outlook: With more shows planned here, Katchafire can count Hawai'i as one of its prime markets.
Our take: No reason why Katchafire can't catch fire in these Islands.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
