Posted on: Friday, January 2, 2009
Top 5 Island albums of year
Before Wayne Harada retired from The Advertiser, he listed his top five 2008 CD releases in Island music. Here they are, with comments from his Island Sounds music reviews:
" 'Aumakua," by Amy Hanaiali'i. "An eclectic mix of classic Hawaiian, new Hawaiian, jazz and show tunes helps Amy Hanaiali'i shape a colorful palate that tells of her connections to people, things and elements that boost the spirit. ... The music is a treasure to discover and behold."
"Destiny," by The Brothers Cazimero. "As is characteristic of previous Caz songfests, this one provides a sweeping panorama of Island insights and stories. ... Maybe that's all part of their destiny: grow, stretch, explore, soar."
"E Hula Mai Kakou," by Na Leo. "Nalani Choy, Lehua Kalima Heine and Angela Morales — Na Leo — continue to be masters of their craft. ... For listening or for hula-ing, this one's a darling from the sweethearts of song."
"Home Malanai," by Leokane Pryor & Friends. "Back home after 20 years, (Pryor is) blessed with a gorgeous falsetto that soars where rainbows arch the skies, in this, his second CD. ... There are originals alongside memory-stained favorites, but the bottom line is the spirit of yesterday, with backyard combo-backing informality."
"Aloha 'Anianiau" by Leilani Rivera Bond. "Her latest compilation of songs that define and reflect her life and her art is a splendid primer on how to do it, and do it right. ... An album for Hawaiiana fans and hula dancers alike."
