Search - HAPA :: Maui

Not same-oh, same-oh hawaiian music

Critical Eye | 08/30/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've lived in Hawaii for twelve years and have accumulated a large, eclectic selection of "Hawaiian music". I tend to like slack key, and the old masters of, but frankly I hadn't heard anything new in Hawaiian music that I felt compelled to listen to, much less purchase, for many many, months. In fact, it was my opinion that the genre had stagnated. I realized I was only playing my "Hawaiian" CD's when we had visitors, as background music. How pathetic is that! I almost didn't buy this CD for that reason. I want to hear new music that has roots in old music. Yet the new music must still touch me and not be solely an ego journey for the artist(s). Maui, by Hapa, was all this and more, for me.

Each selection is quite different, yet they all flow and follow a thread. Each shows the influence of other forms of music, from jazz to that quaint Tahitian plunk-plunk accomanied by pure, joyful voices that is so nostalgic of Tahiti, a spiritual and cultural ancestor of Hawai'i. If you've ever been to the Society Isles during Heiva, or even flown into Papeete airport in the middle of the night and been a recipient of one of these heart-felt musical welcomes, you'll know just what I mean.

(I have to confess, I do like most of Hapa's previous albums quite alot. They are among my top five Hawaiian performers of all time. I also must confess this review is written rather spontaneously, under the influence of two glasses of wine. But isn't that when music is at its best? Not one, not three, but after two glasses of wine.)"

Very Good New Hawaiian Music

J. Ramos | 12/31/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I had always been luke warm to Hapa before, even their acclaimed debut album. one of their problems for me has always been the odd mix of styles and instrumental with vocal tunes. But this album is great. My favorite songs are Lei Manoa, Papa E, redemption Song, and Mo'i o' Lili 'u. Definitely a favorite album now. Even the instrumentals should not fail to make you happy. If you aren't sure about Hawaiian Music yet I also suggest you try Amy Gilliom (Pu'uhonua) and Iz (facing Future).

Aloha from Honolulu!"

Truly Hawaiian

sharpie in paradise | where else...Hawaii! | 11/08/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Having moved recently to Hawaii, I have the opportunity to listen to a LOT of local music. I heard Lei Manoa on the radio ONCE, after having been here for a few months and this song so instantly caught me...its absolutely haunting and it invades your very soul. I highly recommend. We often make CD's of great Hawaiian tunes to send to our friends who have plans to visit soon and this song is ALWAYS on the playlist. It's truly one of our very favorites and quickly becomes one of theirs as well. Bravo Hapa!"