Search - Waipuna :: Napili Ep

WE ARE WHO WE ARE because of where we are.part of a genealogical web.pili to heaven, earth and all that is born or grows. These connections, "Napili", are vital to our identity and inspire this album. Mele pana compile rich observations and experiences to fill our `umeke of memories. As descriptions of place intertwine with attributes of people, lines between land and humanity blur and seem unnecessary. Dennis Kamakahi contributed two mele to this collection. "Na Makani `Eha" tells of an ancestor's exploration of Halawa, Wailau, Pelekunu and Waikolu on Moloka'i, each with a beauty that beckoned the adventurous spirit. Dennis penned "Lei Ko`ele" for Aunty Elaine Kaopuiki and delighted the audience with its premiere at the opening of Lana`i's Ko`ele Lodge. Winds of Kohala swirl though the family trees of each Waipuna member. Robert Uluwehi Cazimero's "Aloha E Kohala" recounts an unforgettable visit to this wondrous homeland highlighted by a stop at Matt's Uncle Kindy's home perched on the overlook of Pololu. Manu Boyd and Randy Ngum danced for Robert's Halau Na Kamalei in the 1980s. Randy composed the opening of "Na `Ale O Ni`ihau" as a hula competition ho'i and Manu has since laced additional verses with insights expressing admiration for ke one hanau o ka pupu kahelelani. Mele written by Kale and David demonstrate that our cultural calabash is being replenished as the line of a new generation is woven into our ancestral `upena. Kale extols the beauty of a famous land and beautiful homesteaders in "Hanohano No `O Waimanalo". David's creation pays instrumental tribute to Maui's "Napili Bay." Lyrics are not the only way to voice aloha `aina. "He Inoa No Pauahi" recognizes that Ke Ali`i Pauahi's land and educational legacy binds all who contributed to this production. Our kupuna would be pleased that Hawaiians continue to love the `aina that gave birth to our culture. And you will delight in hearing this aloha expressed in song by Waipuna.