Slack Key Guitar

From the Label
In April 1999, Slack Key Guitar was nominated by the Hawai'i Academy of Recording Artists as a NA HOKU HANOHANO award finalist in the category 'Compilation Album of the Year'. It is a producer's award for the the best compilation album of newly released material. The producer is Charles Michael Brotman.

Product Description
"Ki ho'a lu," or slack Key guitar, refers to the altered tunings of the acoustic guitar that are unique to the musical heritage of Hawaii. The beautiful slack Key sound is synonomous with the majic of the Hawaiian Islands. This collection of solo performances features 7 well known slack key guitarists.

Slack Key Guitar,Various Artists,Palm Records,"Ki'hoa lu," or slack key guitar, refers to the altered tunings of the acoustic guitar that are unique to the musical heritage of Hawai'i. The beautiful slack key sounds is synonymous with the magic of the islands in this collection of solo per,Hawaiian,Int'l & World Music,Pop,V/a Compilations,World Music

Average customer rating: How Could Anyone Not Like This! A must buy Heaven in slack strings and smooth voices aloha A rare peaceful treat!

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Various Artists Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Pacific Islands | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Black Sand Sounds of Hawaii Facing Future Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 ASIN: B0000030MF Release Date: 1995-05-23

Tracks:

1. Panini Pua Kea - Cyril Pahinui
2. Ku'u Kika Kahiko (My Old Guitar) - Ozzie Kotani
3. Pohakuloa - Moses Kahumoku
4. Ke'ala's Mele - Leonard Kwan
5. Maui Medley - Barney Isaacs And George Kuo
6. Moe 'Uhane' (Dream Slack Key) - Sonny Chillingworth
7. Kalena Kai - Keola Beamer
8. Whee Ha Swing - Ledward Kaapana
9. E Ku'u Morning Dew - Keola Beamer
10. Waikiki Hula Medley - George Kuo
11. Punahele - Ray Kane

Amazon.com

Hawaiian slack-key guitar began evolving in the 1830s, when Spanish and Mexican cowboys brought guitars to the cattle ranches of the Big Island. It became a recognizable style around the turn of the century. The term refers to the practice of slacking some strings from standard tunings to create open tunings; the thumb provides the bass line while the other fingers play melody and improvise. It might thus remind some listeners of the fingerpicking of a country master like Doc Watson, but the style has a wind-blown, wide-open quality all its own. Traditionally an accompanying instrument in a group setting, slack key has recently moved out front, and this all-instrumentals CD shows why. From the light touch of Moses Kahumoku or Leonard Kwan to the bluesiness of George Keo or Ray Kane to the pop feel of Keola Beamer, it offers the best possible introduction to the music. --John Morthland

Customer Reviews:

How Could Anyone Not Like This! .......2007-05-26

I remember listening to this kind of guitar sound when I was a teenager in Hawaii back in the summer of 1964. I fell in love with that sound then and am still a huge fan of this style of guitar playing.

It is still alive and fresh even after listening to this CD hundreds of times over the years. It makes you want to smile and dance and kick sand around on some beach!

The selection of artists for this CVD is alike an aal-star team - great stuff!

A must buy.......2007-04-06

I listen to this Cd on my honeymoon in Maui... just about everyday. It's very relaxing and kind of romantic when sitting in a hot tub. When we got home we had to order this, so we can always have special music to listen to.

Heaven in slack strings and smooth voices.......2006-11-10

If you want to be exposed to some of the best slack-key music around and a wide variety as well, this is the first of several albums you MUST add to your collection. Period. Clean. Clear. Wonderful recordings that make and contain the whole notion of 'Aloha' and so much more.

Here are the islands, the winds, volcanoes rising from the waves, morning light, beach sands. Here are smooth voices, restful voices. Here are joyful moods, playful echoes, and a fascinating blend of ancient textures with new age notions.

Get it. Play it. Play it again. Let it take you to new places where 'mahalo' grabs your soul. It is what it is. Relax. Enjoy.

aloha.......2006-10-07

what a wonderful cd - flashback to warm summer evenings at the slack key guitar festival - all our favorite artists - can hardly wait to order vol II - great price thru amazon - mahalo

A rare peaceful treat!.......2006-05-29

This instrumental Hawaiian guitar music album plays like a blessing in song. The melodies are achingly beautiful. It can transform the darkest mood.

The tradition of Hawaiian slack key started in the 1800's when guitars were first introduced to the Islands. The instruments were adapted to Hawaiian musical traditions. Hawaiian musicians developed their own tunings which in some cases were passed down through the generations.

Ordinarily these guitarists are not heard solo. Luckily for us, we have this collection of Hawaiian slack key guitarists. Enjoy this beautiful album!

Average customer rating: Love it Delicious! beautiful 2006 GRAMMY WINNER!!! Please, more slack key without vocals!!!

Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Various Artists Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Black Sand Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 6 & 12 String Slack Key Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko ASIN: B00000JJMW Release Date: 1999-07-27

Tracks:

1. Popoki Slack Key - Ray Kane
2. Ulili E - Dennis Kamakahi/David Kamakahi
3. Hilo E/E Lili'u - Cgril Pahinui/Bob Brozman
4. Liloa's Mele - Sonny Chillingworth
5. Radio Hula - Led Kaapana & Friends
6. Imi Au La 'Oe - Keola Beamer
7. Pu'u Anahulu - Kamakahi/Kuo/Pahinui Hawaiina Slack Key Band
8. Hurrah Lani Ha'a Ha'a - Cgril Pahinui
9. Maori Brown Eyes - James 'Bla' Pahinui
10. Wahine 'Ilikea - Dennis Kamakahi
11. Lei 'Awaphui (Yellow Ginger Lei) - Bob Brozman/Led Kaapana
12. The Beauty Of Mauna Kea - Keola Beamer/George Winston
13. Mai Poina 'Oe La 'U (Not To Be Forgotten) - Sonny Chillingsworth
14. Aloha 'Oe - George Kahumoki
15. Ula Niu Ke'eke'e (The Crooked Coconut Tree) - George Kahumoki/Kekuhi Kanabelo
16. Slack Key Seranada - Leonard Kwan/Ozzie Kotani

Amazon.com

This second album in Dancing Cat Records' Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Series produced by George Winston follows its successful Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters. Again the masters of the genre are featured in several well-known tunes such as Lili'uokalani's "Aloha 'Oe" (played here by George Kahumoku) and "'Ulili E" (Dennis and David Kamakahi), as well as modern originals and two tracks that had not been available on CD before: "Ulu Niu Ke'eke'e" (George Kahumoku and Kekuhi Kanahele) and "Slack Key Serenade" (Leonard Kwan and Ozzie Kotani). The liner notes provide complete information on each song's original album.

A balance of instrumental and vocal tracks, the compilation is a terrific starting point for exploring the artistic and stylistic diversity in modern slack key. Instruments on this album include everything from traditional mouth bow, 'ukulele, and percussion stones to 12-string slack key and modern acoustic guitars. Elder statesman Ray Kane lullabies us with his simple instrumental "Popoki Slack Key" (popoki means "little cat"); renowned improviser Cyril Pahinui and Sol Hoopii-influenced Bob Brozman combine 12-string slack key and acoustic steel guitar interpreting "Hilo E" and "Lili'u E" in a style evocative of the 1920s. Showing off how slack key works solo, in duets, or with mixed accompaniment, this is one of the most beautiful slack key compilations out there. --Erik Macki

Customer Reviews:

Love it.......2007-02-24

Bought a copy for a trip to Kauai. Listened to it while I was there and now all we have to do is slip the disc on to be transported back to the islands (at least if we keep our eyes closed and try real hard to imagine).

The music is sublime.

Delicious!.......2007-01-09

I am hooked on this music and could play this CD day and night.

beautiful.......2006-06-01

This cd would be worth buying even if it only had one song on it - the version of "Pu'u Anahulu" with Martin Pahinui on vocals. I get chicken skin just listening to this song and how much he sounds like his father! Of course I love Gabby's version but always wondered what it would sound like without the cheesy strings; this is it. Unlike one other reviewer, I love the vocals.

2006 GRAMMY WINNER!!!.......2006-02-25

This album won a Grammy in February 2006! And diservedly so...

Slack key has come into it's own, many prominent guitar players are following these talented Hawaiians around, learning their new tricks and their old traditional ways. (In song sample #8 of "Masters II", Amazon spelled Cyril Pahinui's name with a "g", come on, let's give the Hawaiian artists the respect they deserve.)

This is NOT a sequel to Slack Key MastersI, but a beautiful extension and addition. The voices as well as the strings are sublime, just right in fact.

All I can say is, MORE! MORE! MORE!

Please, more slack key without vocals!!!.......2005-11-22

That's my call to record execs, or George Winston, or whoever, if they ever read these. I bought volume one, absolutely thrilled that finally, after 40 years of searching, I'd finally found slack key without singing. I don't hate the vocals, and the vocals on this CD are less annoying than a whole lot of the vocals I've heard in Hawaiian music (yes, I grew up there, and have gone back every year for the last 30 years, and I've heard a whole lot of Hawaiian music that I didn't exactly ask for.) I love finger-picked ukulele (NOT strummed), and I love the cheesy steel guitar, but if I never hear another vocal, it'll be too soon. So anyway: is everyone who ever published Hawaiian music confident that people like and expect vocals? I see other reviews here that could do without the vocals. I hereby swear that if Dancing Cat (or anybody) ever does another collection anywhere near as good as Vol. 1, without vocals, I will instantly buy it at a premium price. I promise!

Average customer rating: Great! Beautiful Hawaiian Mood Music Beautiful, Gentle, Waterborne Gentle Island sounds

Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Keola Beamer Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Moe`uhane Kika: Tales From The Dream Guitar Black Sand Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Mauna Kea: White Mountain Journal Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 ASIN: B00005UK0Q Release Date: 2002-01-08

Tracks:

1. Pailolo
2. Kapaula Bay
3. Kaulana Na Pua
4. Kolowaka
5. Li'i's Song
6. Mino'aka
7. Moana's Laundry Basket
8. Nala Hala O Nuae
9. Wai Ulu
10. Pauahi O Kalani
11. Kawohikukapulani
12. The Myna Bird's Dobro
13. Papa's okolehau
14. Ka Makani 'Ula'ula
15. Pau Lili Lehua

Amazon.com

Of the slack-key guitarists that pianist George Winston has brought to light from Hawaii, the most eloquent and forward-looking is Keola Beamer, which is ironic given that Beamer's first album in 1973 was called Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar in the Real Old Style. There's nothing old about the music on Soliloquy. Unlike most of his brethren, Beamer rarely sings, and that seems to free him from the sometimes clichéd phrasing and melodies identified with Hawaiian music. Even without those signposts, however, Beamer's music is distinctly Hawaiian, beginning with the slack-key guitar. It's a standard acoustic guitar, but the strings are tuned lower--literally, slacker--than normal. It gives the guitar a lazy, wistful sound just shy of yearning. Soliloquy mixes Beamer's original compositions with traditional songs in unique arrangements, including some for two acoustic guitars. A bit more low key than his previous albums, and featuring more nylon than steel string, Soliloquy is a quiet meditation born from the idyllic environment of Hawaii. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Great!.......2007-04-06

I just set the player on repeat and listen to it for hours. Soothing music. Good to pay attention to or just let it be background music. This is a good CD to have.

Beautiful Hawaiian Mood Music.......2006-08-25

The playing is lovely, and will set a peaceful, relaxing Hawaiian tone wherever you listen to it.

Beautiful, Gentle, Waterborne.......2004-07-13

Infused with the islands - recreates them in sound. The perfect accompaniment to a day or evening on the water. This music gently, deeply sinks in. I'm buying another as a gift for a friend so I can get mine back!

Gentle Island sounds.......2002-12-03

Keola's latest release for George Winstons Dancing Cat Records is a wonderful, soothing, melodic trip through the Islands. There is no low point on the album, and as the songs all are of a quiet tempo with similiar feel, they flow together as a sort of Hawaiian slack guitar suite. Highly recommended! Also- if you get the chance- see Keola live. He puts on a super show.

Average customer rating: THE BEST Kamahiwa Keali'i Rocked in a cradle of pure aloha Beautiful singing; great, relaxing CD

Kamahiwa: The Keali'i Reichel Collection Keali'i Reichel Manufacturer: Punahele Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Maui In Dis Life Alone in IZ World Facing Future Honolulu: The 50 Greatest Hawai'i Albums of All Time ASIN: B000B9EYFM Release Date: 2005-10-25

Tracks:

1. Maunaleo
2. Hanohano Ka Lei Pikake
3. Lei Hali'a
4. Ipo Lei Momi
5. Ka Nohona Pili Kai
6. He Lei No Kamaile
7. Hanohano 'O Maui
8. Mele A Ka Pu'uwai
9. Ku'u Pua Mae 'Ole
10. Toad Song
11. Kawaipunahele
12. Kaiona
13. The Road That Never Ends

Tracks:

1. Mele Inoa No Kawaipunaheleopaliku
2. Maika'i Ka 'Oiwi O Ka'ala
3. 'Auhea Wale Ana 'Oe
4. Ka 'Opihi O Kanapou
5. No Ka Moku Kia Kahi Ke Aloha
6. Pule Ho'ao
7. Ka Mo'o Ku'Auhau O Kamaile Puhi Kane
8. He Lei No Kamaile
9. Lei Hana I Ka Makani Ua Lau'awa
10. Aia I Waiehu Pua Lokelani
11. Ho'i Au e Pili Me Ka'Uiki

Customer Reviews:

THE BEST .......2007-07-14

Keali'i Reichel Collection is probably the best of the Hawaiian music collection that I have. The music contained in KAMAHIWA is for listening and for dancing. I enjoy this CD so much as do my students.

Kamahiwa.......2007-06-27

Some of this music is great, but when songs are sung in English, they sound old fashioned and corny.

Keali'i.......2007-01-29

A fabulous collection. Extremely relaxing. Right after I get back or am traveling to Hawaii I play this in my car. Gets me really ready for a great trip.

Rocked in a cradle of pure aloha.......2006-07-12

This is the most wonderfully tender, majestic, spirited, magical album I've heard in years!

The CD of chants is amazing. If you're still sitting down after a track or two, and your mind isn't reeling with curiosity about the ancient culture of Hawaii, you might need antidepressants...or maybe just the other CD in the set.

The second CD is the most lovely collection of meles. Pure acoustic nurturance! Seriously, if life has you down, do yourself a huge favor - sit or lie down in a cozy spot, close your eyes, and listen to "Maunaleo," the first track...and be warned, you may not want to get moving again until the end of the album. It's too lovely to rush away from.

I can't say enough about this collection. In a nutshell, if you love exquisitely moving music, you cannot go wrong with this one.

Beautiful singing; great, relaxing CD.......2006-06-06

All my life, I wanted to visit Hawa'ii. On May 15th, 2006, I finally did (!), and the experience was even better than I had anticipated. What I did not anticipate, however, was how beautiful Hawa'iian music is. While driving around the island of Oahu (one of the more popular islands of Hawa'ii) and soaking in the sights, I would just listen to the radio and hum to the music.

Now I'm back in the mainland (Maryland,to be specific) wishing I could have stayed in that amazing place just a little longer. Yet, I did manage to bring some Hawa'iian music back home, and Kealii's cd is the most enjoyable, and the most relaxing, of all the music I brought back.

The 1st cd in Kealii's collection reminds me of the great people I got to meet while staying on the island. The music is warm, friendly, and sounds as if it is sung from the soul. The 2nd cd reminds me of the land itself, full of history and culture, impressive in it's majesty, yet respectful of the great ocean of the pacific. The chants on this cd are very impressive - they take you away.

Hawa'ii is a wonderful place, rich in culture; filled with gorgeous landscapes (and forests, and beaches, and oceans), friendly people, delicious food, and wonderful music. I recommend this cd to those looking for a taste of what that unforgettable island has to offer.

Average customer rating: Brings back visit to Hawaii I judge all my other slack key cds against this one...

Slack Key Guitar Various Artists Manufacturer: Palm Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Pacific Islands | Compilations | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Black Sand Moe`uhane Kika: Tales From The Dream Guitar ASIN: B00000J10I Release Date: 1998-09-01

Tracks:

1. Give a Lei, Bryan Kessler
2. Island Style, Randy Lorenzo
3. Dolphin Days, Charles Michael Brotman
4. Kiho'alu Jam, Sonny Lim
5. Hi'ilawe, Sonny Lim
6. Milili'i Slack Key, Ken Emerson
7. Mehameha, Sonny Lim
8. Kaulana Na Pua, John Keawe
9. Saddle Road, Kevin Teves
10. Pu'uanahulu, John Keawe
11. Hapuna Sunset, Charles Michael Brotman

Album Description

"Ki ho'a lu," or slack Key guitar, refers to the altered tunings of the acoustic guitar that are unique to the musical heritage of Hawaii. The beautiful slack Key sound is synonomous with the majic of the Hawaiian Islands. This collection of solo performances features 7 well known slack key guitarists.

Customer Reviews:

Brings back visit to Hawaii.......2005-12-10

I had no idea what Slack Key Guitar was until finally took the wrapper off this CD and played it. Love this CD. Very relaxing. Great backgound music-can let it play all day. Brings back the memories of our visit to Hawaii.

I judge all my other slack key cds against this one..........2000-06-02

Bought it on May 17. Ended up buying 11 (and counting) other slack key music cds. But still my favorite overall. I can't sing, but do want to learn to play slack key, so this instrumental cd of solo (no other instrument) slack key inspires me. You will not go wrong buying this one!

The mellow performances match my personality, and bring to mind images of balmy breezes and swaying trees.

I've been looking for another instrumental cd of solo slack key performances, but have yet to find one that matches this one...except maybe Ozzie Kotani's, and Ledward Kaapana's live CD.

If you are wanting to play slack key, listen to this one and hear what can be achieved, without being distracted by other instruments.

Average customer rating: Dream Guitar Peaceful Massage Music Totally beautiful tropical guitar music... real island sound It's great, but wait

Moe`uhane Kika: Tales From The Dream Guitar Keola Beamer Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Mauna Kea: White Mountain Journal Black Sand Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters 6 & 12 String Slack Key ASIN: B0000030LV Release Date: 1995-08-29

Tracks:

1. E Ku'u Morning Dew
2. Lei 'Awapuhi
3. Winter Tide
4. He Punahele No 'Oe
5. Slack Key Music Box
6. Ku'uipo Ku'u Lei
7. Sweet Singing Bamboo
8. Medley: Ke Ali'i Hulu Mamo And Kimo Hula
9. Roselani Blossoms
10. Holo Wa'apa
11. Au Kai
12. Alekoki
13. Medley: Bali Ha'i And Stranger In Paradise
14. Medley: Ku'u Lei Awapuhi Melemele And Pua Be Still
15. Sanoe

Customer Reviews:

Dream Guitar.......2005-09-13

Magical, mystical ``` brain waves change to a serene pattern in moments. I can smell the plumeria, see the swaying palms and feel the ocean spray - even without a Mai Tai!

Diana

Peaceful Massage Music.......2004-04-20

As a massage therapist, I am always looking for music that soothes my clients and stimulates me. This CD really fits the bill. It has a lovely pace throughout. Clients enjoy it as much as I do.

Totally beautiful tropical guitar music..........2002-10-30

When I moved to the Big Island in 1978, for what would become a stay of just over three years, the Beamers were the hottest thing on the Hawaiian music scene, due to their vocal version of "Honolulu City Lights." While their singing doesn't stink, the real magic is in the guitar picking, and this all-instrumental CD is just plain wonderful. This is worth serious attention with headphones on, and it's great in the background of parties or while surfing the net or doing the bills, or driving around your hometown on the Mainland, wishing you were on one of the islands instead. I can't imagine any music lover not relishing this collection: it's all pleasure, all the time. To tell the truth, actually living in Hawaii is NOT "all pleasure, all the time"---the bugs never die, it either rains too much or too little, depending on which side of the island one lives on, the economy is often weak, the costs of living are frightening, neighbors are often too noisy...many of the same troubles one has wherever one resides. But the music! The music depicts the paradise that in reality, only exists in part. Buy this CD, and your fantasies about Hawaii will be confirmed, which is not altogether a bad thing.

real island sound.......2002-10-26

i hsve to buy this cd pretty often because everyone that hears it falls in love with it, and it's a great present. i also use it when i teach sewing classes...it sets such a tone of happiness and tranquillity that stress levels fall and everyone can take in instruction so much more easily. this is the music i've heard coming from porches and backyards and parties all over Oahu. it makes me very happy.

It's great, but wait.......2000-08-04

This was my introduction to (authentic) slack key guitar and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's truly beautiful stuff. I originally bought it as background music for a luau party, but I couldn't stop playing it -- in the foreground. However the CD that is in release now has two bad/damaged tracks. Unless you want some really horrible noises coming from the speakers, wait to purchase this one. I had three copies of it before I just gave up (despite the wondeful customer service from Amazon.com). I ended up re-burning the CD without the damaged tracks. Wait for a re-release -- it will be worth it.

Average customer rating: Even Southerners Love It Excellent first slack key purchase! Excellent!! Maika'i Nui Loa!! First ever Hawaiian GRAMMY AWARD WINNER!!

Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 Various Artists Manufacturer: Palm Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Slack Key Guitar Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Black Sand ASIN: B0000E3324 Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

1. Celtic Summer
2. Punahele
3. Nai'o
4. Kahealani
5. Circle Song
6. Anahea's Song
7. Julia's Whisper
8. Keiki Slack Key
9. Kanaka Nova
10. Jo Bo's Night
11. Hamakua Hale
12. Noe Noe Uakea
13. Paniolo Medley
14. Kiholo Moon

Album Description

**GRAMMY AWARD WINNING ALBUM** Ki ho'alu, or slack key refers to the altered tunings of the acoustic guitar that are unique to the musical heritage of Hawai'i. Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 was recorded in the heart of "Paniolo" (Hawaiian Cowboy) country where the slack key guitar style originated. This CD presents 10 extraordinary slack key artists, each with their own tuning and slack key style ranging from traditional to contemporary showing an evolution of this art form. Slack Key Guitar Volume 2 won the first ever Best Hawaiian Music Album Grammy at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards! It is the sequel to "Slack Key Guitar", a HOKU Award finalist and top selling CD on Palm Records.

Customer Reviews:

Even Southerners Love It.......2007-06-02

I have several slack key guitar CDs to include Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters volumes I and II, and Slack Key Guitar I. This CD is by far the best that I've collected so far. The reason being is that the aforementioned CDs include songs with chanting/singing. I love this CD because there are no vocals on it.

The music is all original and very calming. I live down in South Carolina and even the southerners love it. My boss asks me to play it whenever we have upper-class blue-blood clients.

It's nice to spread the aloha. This CD certainly does the trick.

Excellent first slack key purchase!.......2006-12-31

We first heard this CD when we were on a tour of Mauna Kea and fell in love with it! It is an excellent CD for anyone wanting to hear some of the best slack key guitar music for the first time. We highly recommend it to anyone wanting to expand their musical library.

Excellent!!.......2006-03-28

I LOVE this CD. It is relaxing, uplifting and warmly stirring.
I have given it as a gift and it was loved as well. If you like guitar you will love this!!

Maika'i Nui Loa!!.......2005-02-26

Beautiful~~ Soothing~~
What a thrill this CD won the Grammy for the first ever Hawaiian Music category. This CD features slack key guitarists who truly embody the beauty of all things Hawaiian. Their talent individually is incredible-- collectively it is mind boggling. If you've ever personally seen any of them play, you know what I mean. Slip this CD in the player, dim the lights, kick back and relax. Let these guys take over & you'll swear you feel the warm sun, hear the gentle waves rolling in, and see the beauty of the immense diversity of the countryside throughout the Hawaiian islands.

First ever Hawaiian GRAMMY AWARD WINNER!!.......2005-02-20

This is an excellent choice for you!! Recently noted as the FIRST EVER HAWAIIAN GRAMMY AWARD WINNER, you will love this album!! The soothing melodies of slack key will take your breath away.

Average customer rating: Hula with an R & B spin! Awesome for KIDS! Puts them to sleep! My Favorite CD Feel the Spirit of Aloha You've got to have this one!

Kawaipunahele Keali'i Reichel Manufacturer: Punahele Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music Similar Items: Facing Future E Ala E Alone in IZ World In Dis Life Ho'oluana ASIN: B000003ZVJ Release Date: 1997-04-22

Tracks:

1. Kawaipunahele
2. In My Life
3. Hanohano Ka Lei Pikake
4. If We Hold On Together
5. E Ho'i I Ka Pili
6. Wanting Memories
7. Kauanoeanuhea
8. Ku'u Wehi O Ke Aumoe
9. 'Akaka Falls
10. Pua Mikinolia
11. Come Sail Away
12. He Mele Inoa No Kawaipunahele

Customer Reviews:

Hula with an R & B spin!.......2007-05-13

I enjoyed the mix of traditional hula with some songs taking on an R & B spin.

Awesome for KIDS! Puts them to sleep!.......2006-03-19

I listened to this music (my daughter is half Hawaiian) when my daughter was a baby ten years ago and it would always soothe her and put her to sleep because it's so soothing and beautiful. Now, my son, when he teeths he is inconsolible! He will not stop for a bottle, to be rocked, sang to, put down in his bed, etc. But I play this, and not even 3 seconds later, he is on his way to la la land. It is wonderful. I recommend it to any parent! Or anyone who wants to de-stress.

My Favorite CD.......2006-02-17

Keali'i Reichel has such a nice mellow voice.
His Music is so soothing and Kawaipunahele is my favorite CD of his works!
Keali'i Reichel includes familar songs along with the Hawaiian theme that puts you in a very mellow mood.
Only wish I had this CD when my kids were all small.
I have bought two of this CD one I bought in Hawaii and this one I bought for my girlfriend because she drives a Limo and would use it in the Limo.

Feel the Spirit of Aloha.......2006-02-08

I bought this CD on Maui, listened to it while we were there, brought it home and listened to it and, thanks to the included lyrics, learned the words to all the songs. I don't speak much Hawaiian, but I now can sing some songs in Hawaiian. Keali'i Reichel has a wonderful voice, great talent, a love for Hawaiian traditions and his legacy, and I can feel the Spirit of Aloha as he sings the songs on this CD.

You've got to have this one!.......2005-08-30

As you know, all of Keali'i's CD's are recommended. This one was his debut CD, released in 1994. It features traditional Hawaiian favorites such as "Akaka Falls," as well as original compositions including "E Ho'i I Ka Pili," "Kauanoeanuhea," and the title track, "Kawaipunahele." It also contains cover versions of The Beatles' "In My Life" and Sticks' "Come Sail Away." Keali'i's chanting comes across at the beginning of "In My Life" and in the last track, "He Mele Inoa No Kawaipunahele." Be sure to pick this one up!

Average customer rating: Fantastic performance almost ruined by bad sound engineering Beautiful Slack Key Classic Led Excellent CD Beautiful. Great to work to!

Black Sand Ledward Kaapana Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pacific Islands | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Soliloquy: Ka Leo O Loko Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 Moe`uhane Kika: Tales From The Dream Guitar Waltz of the Wind ASIN: B00004TDOV Release Date: 2000-06-06

Tracks:

1. Punahoa Special (Instrumental)
2. Koke'e (Instrumental)
3. Ninipo Ho'onipo (Instrumental)
4. Mokupuni Nui (Vocal)
5. Aloha La No O Maui (Instrumental)
6. Nui Papa (Tahitian Slack Key)(Instrumental)
7. Tue Hey (Instrumental)
8. Kanaka Waiwai/O Maria (Instrumental)
9. Waiakanaio (Instrumental)
10. Highway To Hana (Instrumental)
11. Salomila/New 'Opihi Moemoe (Instrumental Duet)
12. 'Akaka Falls (Instrumental Duet)
13. Black Sand (Instrumental)

Amazon.com

Led Kaapana, a visible mainstay in the Hawaiian Islands scene of slack-key guitarists, presents his first solo studio release here. It's an unadorned gem, needing none of the embellishment characteristic of his 1999 release, Waltz of the Wind, a collection of collaborative music featuring country and Cajun musicians. Though Waltz was intriguing for its wide-ranging samples of fingerpicking, Black Sand will better satisfy purists of the slack-key tradition. The distinct tunings of Hawaiian slack key already give the guitar a crisp yet deeply melodic tone, and in Led's hands, the genre's hues deepen even more brilliantly. His touch is tender, his tone emotive, and his tunes pastoral and melodic. There's nothing astounding here, but such is the case with recent releases from fellow slack-key masters Keola Beamer and Dennis Kamakahi, but like those albums, Black Sand is quietly eloquent and dignified, exquisite for its simple essence alone. --Karen K. Hugg

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic performance almost ruined by bad sound engineering.......2007-03-17

Just purchased Black Sand and almost really enjoyed it. The artistry is there, with Ledward displaying his fantastic slack key abilities. However each track is marred by an annoying use of electronic tremolo (possibly with reverb - sorry if inaccurate description, I'm not a sound engineer) throughout - so much so that I was completely distracted by it. Why someone thought this necessary is beyond me. The unadulterated sound would have been much preferred. Still worth buying for any Kaapana or slack key fan, but a bit of a disappointment.

Beautiful Slack Key.......2007-03-08

This is a wonderful piece of work by one of slack key's best talents. Ledward plays his own unique style of slack key, and this album has plenty to recommend it. Close your eyes, let the music take you to the land of swaying palm trees, active volcanos, and black sand beaches!

Classic Led .......2007-01-10

This is a good example of classic Led kiho'alu guitar virtuosity that, for me, is improved by a total lack of Led's falsetto singing. Many fans of Led and Hawaiian music will disagree, but I personally dislike the falsetto singing style. This is mostly an instrumental album of six and twelve string guitar, with an interesting addition of two pieces played on the autoharp. This is a solid album that will appeal to any fans of Hawaiian Slack Key guitar.

Excellent CD.......2005-07-25

This really is an excellent CD. I bought it without knowing anything about Led Kaapana and I made a good pick. In my opinion, there's only one song I don't care for, but all others sound great. Excellent island flavor; no imitation Hawaiian sounds that some artists do to make you think you're in Hawaii. Pick it up...you'll be glad you did.

Beautiful. Great to work to!.......2005-04-09

Beautiful instrumentals. Intricate and focused.

I play Led Kaapana instrumental CDs when I have to fully concentrate -- writing or analyzing something difficult.

If you get a chance to see him live, do so. His playfulness and sense of humor adds tremendously to his excellent live performance. The record company has an email list that announces his tours.
http://www.dancingcat.com/artists/Led_Kaapana.html

Average customer rating: Every Day's a Holiday When You Listen to "Meluhia"

Maluhia Keali'i Reichel Manufacturer: Punahele Productions ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Hawaii | Pacific Islands | International | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Caz Christmas Hawaiian Relaxation Generation Hawai`i Kamahiwa: The Keali'i Reichel Collection Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei ASIN: B000IOMXY4 Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

1. Ke Au Maluhia
2. Remind Me Of Home
3. Silent Night
4. Christmas Lullabye
5. Merry Christmas, Darling
6. Nu 'Oli
7. O Holy Night
8. Testify To Love
9. 'Til The Season Comes Round Again
10. Ke Aloha Kalikimaka

Album Description

"Maluhia" (Peaceful) features traditional classics and original compositions in both English and Hawaiian. Reichel's warm vocal style matches perfectly with the new material, whether it's an acapella version of the Hawaiian hymn "Nu 'Oli" or the more contemporary "Christmas Lullaby". The top-notch production contains string arrangements by Matt Catingub, and newly composed tunes by Ben Vegas, Puakea Nogelmeier, and Keola Donaghy. Guests include Ho'okena, Maila Gibson, and Grammy winner Jeff Peterson.

Customer Reviews:

Every Day's a Holiday When You Listen to "Meluhia".......2006-11-23

Hawaii and Christmas typically are usually placed in the same sentence for the novelty and humor they lend to each other. Bing Crosby and the Andrew Sister's "Mele Kalikimaka" or the hapa-hoale "(How'd You Like to Have) Christmas on Christmas Island?" are the typical Hawaiian Holiday tunes most listeners are exposed to. Funny, silly and Wow! No snow-it's a coconut palm sort of world! Wacky!!

Plenty of local Hawaiian and Hawaiian-inspired artists have released collections of holiday music. Rejecting novelty (well, most of the time...) local musicians have created holiday music that includes the Hawaiian language, the Protestant missionaries musical foundations and the melding of musical forces from all over the Pacific.

The George Winston-produced and distributed Holiday Slack Key collections successfully bring gentle island melodies to the most frigid of environments. Some artists, like Hapa and Na Leo, have released recordings for the holidays that are warm embraces of aloha and holiday cheer. Keali'i Reichel's holiday offering, "Maluhia," mixes the familiar with a twist-"Silent Night" sung in English and Hawaiian, "Merry Christmas, Darling" with a male chorus and slack key guitar and "O Holy Night" as a non-tour-de-force rendition but rather a gentle retelling of Christ's birth with 'cello. All these new takes on the old work well because, like all other superior holiday musical releases, Reichel mixes the familiar with the novel in a way that stays true to the original intent of the songwriter but exposes another facet or truth in the composition.

Unlike previous releases, Reichel does not offer any traditional Hawaiian chant or hula. The bracing, nasal yowl of a voice that Reichel would unleash in a chant and then temper in a Beatles's cover (See his version of "In My Life" on his debut album, "Kawaipunahele" for a moving example)is gone on this release-and probably rightly so. Reichel 's voice is soothing, folksy, and above all, warm. "Remind me of Home" and "Till the Season Comes 'Round Again" are nostalgic and longing memories that display an uncommon and sweet grace whether the listener is in Kahala or Kansas. Dan Fogelberg and Kenny Loggins are probably wishing that their A&R guys had found these wonderful songs first for their Christmas albums.

Reichel's unabashed love and pride in the Hawaiian language are right up front. "Nu 'Oli," the opening track, a 19th century Protestant hymn and "Ke Aloha Kalikimaka," a new composition, are gorgeous sonic portraits of the spirit of Christmas. It is the new Christmas carol by long time Reichel collaborator and University of Hawaii professor Dr. Puakea Nogelmeier, "Ke Au Maluhia" that will most likely move you to tears. One can imagine this song sung in the snow or the sands, always with love and reverence for family.

You won't go around working the room to this music. "Maluhia" is an album that invites you to read and reflect on the lyrics in the collection and the meaning of the season. Christmas and Hawaii are treated as partners on a journey-not polar opposites. And with Keali'i Reichel as your guide, you could not have a better journey. Be sure you have your Streisand, Crosby and Williiams CDs-but this year when you're cleaning up after the holiday dinner or perhaps setting up the tree alone, put on this CD and remember the joy and loss and be glad for this mele and aloha.

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