Search - HAPA :: In the Name of Love

True, Hapa's second album isn't as impressive as their 1995 self-titled debut--but it isn't disappointing, either. The 1990s "Maui sound" is still intact, though less slack key and more electric guitar give it a somewhat less Hawai'ian flavor. The album is an evolution of sorts. For one thing, though there are several tracks in Hawai'ian, this album actually has English lyrics too. There are also some standby instrumental covers, like "Europa." Hapa's Hawai'ian lyrics are excellent and translated in the liner notes. The group presents a stunning cover of U2's "In the Name of Love," admixed with traditional mele (chant) by guest cantor Charles Ka'upu, whereas the Hawai'ian lyrics of "E Hele Ana E" are set against a stark electric base. True to the appeal of Hapa's first album, In the Name of Love blends the old and the new seamlessly into something that both Hawai'ian-music enthusiasts as well as Mainland beginners can, and will, enjoy. --Erik Macki