Posted on: Sunday, December 25, 2005
ISLAND SOUNDS
Hawai'i pianist releases 'Encore' of favorite romantic tunes
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
Kit Samson's piano artistry is unmatched, and a new CD proves it again.
Meanwhile, two re-issues on CD bring back fond memories of growing-up-time songs and of a Waimanalo chorus.
"ENCORE!" BY KIT SAMSON; SAMSONATA RECORDS
Genre: Piano instrumentals.
Distinguishing notes: Kit Samson is perhaps Hawai'i's most celebrated pianist; with an international repertoire, his musicianship is admired by listeners and savored by singers. He personalizes movie tunes and standards with heartfelt tenderness. On this record, "Clair De Lune" projects passion, "Moon River" suggests romance and "The Impossible Dream" reflects hopeful quests. The most expressive cut is "Linus and Lucy," offering joyful playfulness with a jolt of jazz elements. You're a good man, Samson! A medley of Carpenter tunes shows off Samson's precise touch on the ivories and skill at arrangement. Don't forget that this is the same keyboarder who played at President Bush's inaugural this year.
The outlook: Should win quick approval from fans.
Our take: A romantic album.
"HAWAIIAN SONGS FOR CHILDREN" BY NINA, LANI, LAHELA AND THE MAILE SERENADERS; HULA RECORDS
Genre: Traditional Hawaiian.
Distinguishing notes: Nina, Lani and Lahela are members of the musical Rodrigues family; recording buffs may know Nina as Nina Keali'iwahamana, a solo vocalist and a featured act for years on the "Hawaii Calls" radio show. This reissue offers 14 songs, from the prolific pens of the late Alice Namakelua and Mary Kawena Pukui, geared to youngsters and dealing with youth-oriented themes: "Kama'a Hou (New Shoes)," "Ku'u Lupe (My Kite)" and "He Mapala U'i Ka'u (I Have Pretty Marbles)."
The outlook: If you own a worn-out, long-playing disc, circa 1965, this is the time to replace it.
Our take: Wonderful material, but perhaps limited appeal.
"SURF SAND & SONG" BY KEIKI O WAIMANALO; TRADEWINDS RECORDS
Genre: Contemporary Hawaiian.
Distinguishing notes: Three decades after the original release on vinyl, a reissue brings these keiki voices back.
The ensemble, directed by the unforgettable Noelani K. Mahoe, delights with a number of classics, including "Ku'u Pete," "Tomi Tomi," "That's the Hawaiian in Me," "E Ku'u Keiki" and "Ka I Ka Hoe."
If you enjoy the Honolulu Boy Choir, you'll enjoy this youth ensemble, with a robust Hawaiian (and some hapa-haole) penchant.
The outlook: Cheerful joy awaits a new generation of listeners.
Our take: This classic Hawaiian ensemble will be special 30 years from now.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
