Posted on: Friday, March 30, 2007
ISLAND SOUNDS
Hypnotic 'Drum Beats' preserves culture
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
The pulse of the Pacific — the drumbeats that define the South Seas culture — again is explored on CD.
Two compilations — with reggae rhythms aplenty — highlight budding Maui talent and pay tribute to Bob Marley.
"DRUM BEATS OF THE PACIFIC, VOL. 3" BY VARIOUS ARTISTS; HULA RECORDS
Genre: Polynesian, world music.
Distinguishing notes: With two previous compilations of Polynesian syncopation, the arrival of this third one is no surprise. The material spans the Pacific, with rhythms you'll find in Rarotonga, Tahiti, and yes, even Hawai'i. The 15 selections may not be familiar, but the flavor and the fundamentals are elements you might have encountered in a South Seas visit, a journey to the Polynesian Cultural Center or a trek to a Waikiki production that features the voices and the tempos of our Polynesian cousins.
What's helpful here, if you're serious about the nature of drumming, Polynesian style, are the bountiful liner notes of how to play out a particular tune, with thumping on the skin of the drums, the edge of the drums, and precise patterns of performance. The disc, and earlier volumes, too, would serve as classic accompaniment for a budding Tahitian dancer.
Our take: I dare you to listen to this one — and remain still. The sounds are hypnotic, exciting, mood-evoking. The real gift is not so much the entertainment quotient but the preservation-of-the-culture element. Two thumps up!
"VALLEY ISLAND VIBIN,' VOLUME ONE" BY VARIOUS ARTISTS; LYRI-COOL PRODUCTIONS
Genre: Island reggae, world music.
Distinguishing notes: Thirteen tunes interpreted by as many acts — soloists and groups — give startup performers a launching pad for some exposure. The fare runs the gamut, from Chantelle's sweetly rockin' "Give Me" to the syncopated "In the Mood" by Mana Ohana; from Luma's animated "It's You" to the equally mobile "Conscious Healing" by Spidahz; from the blues-jazz hybrid "Come Close" by True Vibe to Ikaika's feel-good "What Should I Do." Several others — Hawaiian Home Boy (HHB), Island Heat, DJ Audissey and Zacc Kekona — offer nibbles worth tasting. Go explore.
Our take: A format that's overdone, but a worthy tool in developing under-the-radar talent.
"EVERYBODY LOVES BOB MARLEY" BY VARIOUS ARTISTS; NEOS PRODUCTIONS
Genre: Reggae, world music.
Distinguishing notes: If you want to jam in the spirit of Bob Marley, this may be your key to rastafarian joy. The title tune, "Bob," performed by Macka B, is a tidy anthem that embraces a bit of bio, and international fave Bitty McLean drops in with "One Drop." But a range of locals swim in the rasta sea, with winning ways: Sean Na'auao on "Comin' In From the Cold," Koa'uka on "Could You Be Loved," Kapena on "Night Shift," Bruddah Waltah on "No Woman No Cry," B.E.T. on "Jamming," Robi Kahakalau on "Do It Twice," Kawao on "Misty Morning," Baba B. on "So Much Trouble in the World," and lots more. All told, there are 17 cuts — enough for a hearty party.
Our take: Wave the red, yellow and green flag, and go for it.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
Sample song: "Tavanui E" 