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| Song List
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| Album Notes
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| Since the 1800’s, slack key guitar has been the music of the Hawaiian 'ohana (family). Originally known and played only in local island back yards, slack key has come to represent Hawai'i as a true folk art and is now known and enjoyed around the world. At the weekly Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series on Maui, Hawai'i’s best musicians gather to play this unique style of music. This is the third album of songs recorded live at the slack key show. The first two albums, Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar, Volume One and Legends of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Live from Maui, were each awarded a Grammy for Best Hawaiian Music Album of the Year in 2006 and 2007 respectively. The concert series continues in West Maui. For information and reservations go to www.slackkey.com or call 888-669-3858 toll free. |
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Reviews
"Treasures of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar" by various artists; Daniel Ho Creations Genre: Slack-key guitar with vocals Distinguishing notes: A dozen tracks, culled from a live, ongoing "Masters of Slack Key Guitar Concert Series" on Maui, features the usual luminaries of ki ho'alu sharing their artistry. The vocals add a truly expressive twist to the guitarmanship, and to experience these greats, side by side, is a joyous experience. Dennis Kamakahi's "Maika'i Kaua'i" vocal projects a folksy, earthy texture to his chordings; Cyril Pahinui's "Nani Ka'ala," similarly, has flavors and textures that come with seasoned performances. Brother Martin Pahinui is well-represented, too, with "Panini Pua Kea," a rollicking hula favorite revived with zeal and tenderness. Daniel Ho sings and strums on "Ku'uipo, My Darling," showcasing his growing mastery of Hawaiian lyrics. Owana Salazar is the lone female on deck; her "Ali'i Poe" begins with an explanation, segueing into a mele proclaiming romance. Ledward Ka'apana's instrumental "Ku'uipo Onaona" spells romance, sans lyrics, since his fingers do the gentle talk-story. So many others are part of the jam: Keoki Kahumoku, George Kahumoku Jr., Bobby Ingano and Sterling Seaton. Because of its live setting, there's applause, even coughs, with a few performers tossing in a "mahalo" or two. Our take: This is the third in a continuing ki ho'alu series, and likely not the last. Another reason to proclaim, "Maui no ka 'oi."
"Treasures of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar" Various artists (Daniel Ho Creations) Record producer Daniel Ho is 2-for-2 at the Grammy Awards with slack-key compilations. This one could easily make Ho and his partners three-time winners at the Grammys next spring. It includes recordings by Ledward Kaapana, George Kahumoku Jr., Dennis Kamakahi, Cyril Pahinui and Martin Pahinui -- all of whom are unquestionably treasures of slack key. There are also recordings by guitarists who are at least a decade away from deserving the accolade, one song each by steel guitarist Bobby Ingano and Hawaiian falsetto singer Richard Ho'opi'i (who plays 'ukulele), and a number by Garrett Probst and Peter de Aquino (the duo formerly known as Da 'Ukulele Boyz). In short, it isn't all slack key. Ho and his partners have taken a significant step forward as producers by including photos and short bios of the artists, information about the songs, and guitarists' slack-key tunings. Bravo!! |
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| Song Notes
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| More than 150 years have passed since Mexican vaqueros came to Hawai'i to teach the Hawaiian cowboys how to manage cattle. Although the Mexicans weren’t in Hawai'i for long, they gave the islands a lasting legacy in the guitars they left behind. The Hawaiians were creative and ingenious musicians, and they developed their own unique tunings and techniques. The songs on this album demonstrate these stylings as played by master musicians. The ever-inventive Hawaiians later developed the steel guitar, and we are pleased to include a song by one of the all-time greats of this instrument. 1. Maika'i Kaua'i (Beautiful Kaua'i) was originally a name chant for the last chief of Kaua'i, Ka'umuali'i, a real cousin of Dennis Kamakahi several generations removed and the nephew of Chief Kahekili of Maui, Dennis’s uncle several generations removed. Dennis performs it in C Mauna Loa tuning (C-G-E-G-A-E) with a modern melody. 2. Ku'u Ipo Onaona (Gentle Sweetheart) is a classic slack key song. Ledward Kaapana learned it from his uncle Fred Punahoa. He plays it in Taro Patch G tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D). 3. Nani Ka'ala (Beautiful Ka'ala) is named for O'ahu’s highest mountain. As in so many Hawaiian mele there is a kaona or hidden meaning. Ka'ala symbolizes a woman traveling about O'ahu meeting various men, perhaps in search of a mate. Cyril Pahinui performs in C Major Tuning (C-G-E-G-C-E). 4. Ua Mau (Hosana) is a beautiful hymn composed by Moses W. Ka'aneikawaha'ale Keale, who was known as Keale Te Kaula (Keale, the prophet). He composed many hymns in the 1800’s that are still heard in churches today. George Kahumoku, Jr. remembers this song from his childhood. He plays it in Taro Patch F tuning (C-F-C-F-A-C). 5. Panini Pua Kea (White Flowered Cactus) is a hula song written by John Kameaaloha Almeida, a prolific composer often called the Dean of Hawaiian music. The flower in this song is Leialoha, a beautiful woman. Martin Pahinui plays the song in C Major tuning (C-G-E-G-C-E). 6. Henehene Kou 'Aka (For You And I) is a popular traditional song dating back to the 1920’s. A young man and woman are traveling by street car in Honolulu on their way to a fun day at the beach in Waikiki and eating seaweed and beef stew. Each verse ends with words in both Hawaiian and English “He mea ma'a mau ia” (always a good time) “For you and I”. Richard Ho'opi'i accompanies himself on 'ukulele. 7. Ali'i Poe (Canna indica) is a sweet old love song from Kaua'i composed by Rev. William Maka'ehu. Canna or Canna Lily is a flowering tropical plant found in Hawai'i. In this mele a man thinks of his cherished sweetheart, “On a calm night sheltered in the shade of canna leaves.” Owana Salazar performs the song in Drop C tuning (C-G-D-G-B-D). 8. Blue Slacks Slack Key was composed by Keoki Kahumoku with Brittni Paiva. After a slack key lesson in Hilo they were sitting around waiting for a ride home, when they noticed that they were both wearing identical new slacks. They kidded each other about it and decided to compose this song. Keoki plays in Taro Patch G tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D). 9. Wailana is the name of the Cummings home in Waimanalo, O'ahu. This mele about the peaceful setting there is usually attributed to King David Kalakaua, who may have composed the song during a visit there. Bobby Ingano performs on a Jerry Byrd Frypan Hawaiian steel guitar in Bobby’s C6 tuning (G-E-C-A-G-E-Bb). 10. Ku'u Ipo, My Darling is a new song composed by Daniel Ho, with lyrics by Amy Ku'uleialoha Stillman. A man in love gazes at his sweetheart and invites her to snuggle close to him, “Ke kani hone a ke ki ho'alu,” “As the slack key plays gently.” Daniel plays in his G Kilauea (D-G-C-G-B-E) tuning. 11. Cyril’s Slack Key is an original composition by Cyril Pahinui. He came up with it while jamming with other musicians during a Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series performance. On this track, young Sterling Seaton, a regular performer in the show, plays lead guitar accompanied by Peter deAquino on 'ukulele, Dennis Kamakahi on guitar, and George Kahumoku, Jr. on 12-string guitar. 12. Laupahoehoe Hula (Boy from Laupahoehoe) was composed by Irmgard Aluli, one of Hawai'i’s most renowned composers. In this version of the song, often performed as a kane (men’s) hula, a strong young Hawaiian boy climbs the cliffs down to a stream to fish, paddles his canoe fearlessly out to sea, and surfs to the shore without even getting wet. Then he returns home to become even stronger, filling his opu (stomach) with delicious poi. Keoki Kahumoku sings the lead, accompanied by Peter deAquino, Garrett Probst and Daniel Ho on 'ukuleles. |
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| About the Artists
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| George Kahumoku, Jr. Originally from South Kona on Hawai'i, George is a co-founder of the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series of which he is the weekly host. Known as Hawai'i’s Renaissance Man, George is a master slack key guitar player, songwriter, author, world-wide performer, Lahainaluna High School art and ceramics teacher, sculptor in bronze, story-teller and farmer. George tours occasionally and lives on Maui, where he grows taro and other native plants. Ledward Kaapana’s guitar virtuosity along with his easy-going manner have earned him a reputation as one of Hawai'i’s most popular traditional musicians. A master of ki ho'alu (slack key guitar) and 'ukulele, Led is also an outstanding singer, including leo ki'eki'e (falsetto). His two solo albums, Ki ho'alu and Grandmaster Slack Key Guitar, were nominated for Grammys in the years 2006 and 2007. Ledward tours often, performing to full houses of awed fans (known as “Led Heads”) all around the world. Cyril Pahinui, son of the legendary Gabby Pahinui, began playing at a young age at back yard parties in Waimanalo with his famous family and such luminaries as Atta Isaacs and Sonny Chillingworth. Cyril plays both the standards from his youth and distinguished original compositions. Always respecting and acknowledging his teachers, Cyril shares his deep love of Hawaiian musical tradition on both national and international tours where he has become one of Hawai'i’s most respected and beloved performers. Dennis Kamakahi is one of Hawai'i’s most prolific composers having written such famous Hawaiian standards as Wahine 'Ilikea, Pua Hone and Koke'e among many others. At age 19, his rich voice and superlative guitar skills led him to be honored to replace the late Gabby Pahinui in the Sons of Hawai'i. A three-time Na Hoku Hanohano Award recipient, Dennis received a Fellowship Award from the State of Hawai'i in 2006. He has traveled extensively for many years on the mainland and Japan where he plays to sell-out crowds. In 2007, Dennis celebrates 40 years as a professional musician. Martin Pahinui, a gifted vocalist and musician, has performed with a host of top artists, including his father's legendary Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band, The Peter Moon Band, The Pahinui Brothers, and Hui Aloha. His Dancing Cat Productions CD, Ho'olohe was nominated for a Hoku award. Martin reflects a firm commitment to perpetuating the Pahinui slack key legacy. “My dad always said the key was to respect the culture and then do your music in the way that brings you the most enjoyment.” Martin also travels and performs widely. Keoki Kahumoku has been playing music professionally for twenty years, since he was 19. He plays both 'ukulele and slack key guitar, featuring traditional and original works. In addition to his solo albums, he has recorded with his father, George Kahumoku, Jr. and with Herb Ohta, Jr. He is the only artist honored to be on each of the first three Grammy Award-winning Hawaiian music albums. Keoki lives in Hilo where he hunts, fishes, teaches music, and performs. Owana Salazar, one of Hawai'i’s top vocalists in both the traditional Hawaiian and Jazz genres, also plays Hawaiian slack key and steel guitar. Winner of Hoku Awards for 2003 Best Contemporary Hawaiian Album for Wahine Slack n' Steel and 2005 Best Jazz Album for Hula Jazz, her love of music is always evident. Her pure, melodic voice conjures images of a peaceful ocean shore, and the people and warmth of Hawai'i. With her charismatic presence and musical talents, Owana delights audiences all around the world. Daniel Ho is an accomplished musician, composer, arranger, and producer. Versed in guitar, 'ukulele and piano, among other instruments, he first gained acclaim as the leader of the contemporary jazz band, Kilauea. Daniel composes and performs original songs in many musical styles including classical, jazz and pop. He has recorded seven CDs with George Kahumoku, Jr., and dedicates his time to perpetuating traditional Hawaiian music through his highly regarded record label, Daniel Ho Creations. Daniel Ho plays Yamaha guitars. Richard Ho'opi'i is a living legend of Hawaiian music and a master of the traditional art form of leo ki'eki'e, Hawaiian falsetto. For many years he performed with his brother Sol as the Ho'opi'i Brothers. He has received the National Endowment for the Arts Folk Heritage Fellowship, America’s highest honor for traditional artists. Charismatic on stage, his lively music, thick white hair and infectious smile, make him one of the most recognizable of Hawaiian musicians. A deeply religious man, he lives on Maui in the picturesque village of Kahakuloa, where he was born and raised. Bobby Ingano is one the greatest living performers of Hawaiian steel guitar. A protégé of the legendary David “Feet” Rogers of the Sons of Hawai'i, Bobby has delighted audiences everywhere with his subtle, understated style of lap steel. Highly regarded by fellow musicians, he has been a studio musician for a prestigious list of entertainers including Amy Gilliom, the Brothers Cazimero, Theresa Bright, Martin Pahinui, the Ka'au Crater Boys, and Kapena. Bobby appears often at the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series where he is able to present his outstanding artistry as a featured soloist. Garrett Probst and Peter deAquino. Garrett and Peter are first cousins now in their twenties who have been studying 'ukulele since they were ages 6 and 11 respectively. Learning 'ukulele from their mentor, Keoki Kahumoku, they quickly developed their considerable talents, stage presence and charisma. They have appeared regularly as Da 'Ukulele Boyz at the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series. Garrett is currently attending the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, where he majors in Hawaiian Studies. Peter currently performs at the Hula Grill with the band TBA and teaches 'ukulele at Kamehameha Schools on Maui. Sterling Seaton is a talented young Maui musician who started out as a stagehand at the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series and is now a regular performer at the show. During the day he attends the University of Hawai'i. This is his first recording. |
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| Credits
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| Produced by George Kahumoku, Jr., Paul Konwiser, Wayne Wong, and Daniel Ho Mixing, mastering & graphic design by Daniel Ho Liner Notes by Paul Konwiser Recorded by Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Productions, Inc., by Peter deAquino & Sterling Seaton at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on Maui Guitar Photos by Kate Killian (courtesy of Yamaha Guitars) Additional inset artist photos by Tammy Osurman (except Dennis Kamakahi & Daniel Ho); inset photo of Daniel Ho by Lydia Miyashiro Record Label: Daniel Ho Creations Recorded: 2006 Release Date: September 18, 2007 |
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