ISLAND SOUNDS
Kawai Hewett's latest is one to treasure
By Wayne Harada
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"Honehone i ka Poli" by Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett; Daniel Ho Creations
This album is no exception. The title, "Honehone i ka Poli" (which translates to "sweetly resounding in my heart"), says it like it is: simply, honestly and purely. As Hewett sings, Daniel Ho provides gorgeous sounds on 'ukulele, ki ho'alu, bass and piano, sending the listener on a journey rich in texture and detail.
"He Milimili 'Oe E Ku'u Ipo," about a never-fading, beloved lei, is dedicated to hula master Uncle George Naope; "E Ma'alili A'e Nei" bubbles with remembrances of Hewett's dad and Waialua 'ohana; "Ka Lei Lehua Ho'oheno i ka Poli" is inspired by 'Ola'a on the Big Island, home to Pele and Hi'iaka and Lohi'au, legendary figures in song and dance; "Pu'uwai" is another composition influenced by a place — and also Hewett's kumu, Emma DeFries.
Most of the tunes are supported by the sweet and delicate voice of Ula Hewett, the composer's daughter, while Ho's generously atmospheric musical canvas enhances Hewett's mele.
Sample song: "Puuwai" by Kawaikapuokalani Hewett |
"Haleakala" by Riley Lee and Jeff Peterson; Peterson Productions
The pair give a seductive and romantic touch to recent and classic standards, including "'Akaka Falls," "Haole Hula," "Maori Brown Eyes," "Lahaina Luna," "Ka Wai Lehua 'A'ala Ka Honua" and "Wahine 'Ilikea." The musical marriage, like a real marriage, gives solo time and emphasis to both partners in song.
The instrumentalists co- authored "Manu O Ke Kai," creating evocative visions about a bird of the sea, and Peterson wrote other originals, including "Hosmer's Grove," "Holua Cabin Serenade" and "Sliding Sands," all homages to Haleakala, the Maui region where he grew up.
It's difficult to say which track ranks highest; the choice depends on your mood as a listener. Thus, this is an ideal companion for your think tank.
Sample song: "Homer's Grove" by Haleakala |
"The Storm Before the Calm" by Shawn Livingston Moseley; 'Aumakua Records
You'll find both quiet and calm - with threats of stormy weather - in the likes of "Augmented Sea," "Eyes of the Storm" and "Tranquility." On "Call of the Sirens," ki ho'alu favorite Jeff Peterson makes a guest appearance.
Sample song: "Searching For The Calm" by Shawn Livingston Moseley |
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.