Kahauanu Lake "elevated the basic technique of strumming to an art form while also demonstrating the importance of going beyond simple chords. He bucked tradition with arrangements in which the ‘ukulele defined the melody rather than the rhythm of a song, helping the humble (‘ukulele) make the leap to lead instrument rather than a sidekick to the guitar or piano. – John Berger, Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 9/28/03

 "This reissue, part of Hula Records' Legendary Classics Series, captures ('Mr. K's') timeless presence – a 1965 recording retrofitted for a 2007 audience, complete with enhanced liner notes jammed with lyrics and translations, a roster of achievements and awards from the mid-1980s till now, and a bonus track, 'Na Mamo Ali‘i.'...The tunes are like handpicked fruit from a tree laden with ripe mangoes, composed by some of the stellar old-time pros..." – Wayne Harada, Honolulu Advertiser, 8/10/07.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Pua Lililehua
2. Ka'u Nui
3. Pili Palua
4. 'A'ole La
5. He Mana'o Ko'u Ia 'Oe
6. Home Kapaka
7. Hu'i E
8. Ke 'Ala Ka'u I Honi
9. Hualalai
10. He Aloha Ku'u Ipo
11. Pili Me 'Oe
12. Medley:  Ku'u Lei Ho'i Mai Malihini
13. Bonus Track:  Na Mamo Ali'i
    
    

"The Kahauanu Lake Trio is made up of ‘ukulele virtuoso Kahauanu Lake, master bass player Tommy Lake, and guitar specialist Al Machida . While their career spanned more that fifty years, they have left behind only six recorded albums; each one a cherished possession and a collector's item for their artistic and musical excellence, and for their detailed liner notes by Jean Sullivan. No other group in the history of Hawaiian music has endured the test of time...The music of The Kahauanu Lake Trio is ageless and still very much in demand." – Michael Pili Pang, Kumu Hula (Hula Master), Halau Hula Ka No‘eau, and Director of the Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts, City and County of Honolulu.

The trio's 1968 album, recorded live at the Kaimana Beach Hotel in Waikiki, and reissued in 2006, includes Hawaiian lyrics, translations and annotation by Jean Sullivan.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Na Wai E Pipi'i
2. Lei Lokelani
3. Waikiki Hula
4. Nani Venuse
5. Moloka'i Waltz
6. Wahiika'ahu'ula
7. Na Hala O Naue
8. Pilina Mau
9. Henehene Kou 'Aka
10. Kawena
11. Medley:  Kaula 'Ili/Pu'u O Hulu
12. Ko'ula
13. Bonus:  Misty Rains and Lehua
    
    

"Two classic greatest hits compilations re-released in compact disc document the history of one of the seminal groups of the Hawaiian Renaissance. The discs are available separately, and each contains a cross-section of material from the groups' landmark Hula Records albums of the late-60s; Hawaiian music fans will want to collect both." – John Berger, The Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 12/18/88

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Kawika
2. Uwe Ka Wao
3. 'Ohi'a Hua Palaku
4. Only You
5. Sunday Manoa
6. Maika'i Ka Makani O Kohala
7. Pua Tuberose
8. Kalakaua
9. Kaulana Kawaihae
10. Heha Waipi'o

"The Sunday Manoa philosophy has been simple enough: Take some modern influences, blend with the traditional, serve with sizzle and style. Gather musicians of diverse skills and artistry, and you get a hybrid. In the annals of Hawaiian music, The Sunday Manoa clearly can be credited with providing the roots for the renaissance among the young music-makers.

This compilation is a brief examination of earlier moments and imprints placed on the musical landscape. Sometimes you have to look back and appreciate history, to see and shape the future." – Wayne Harada, Entertainment Editor, The Honolulu Advertiser

 "The Best of The Sunday Manoa, Volume II" features Peter Moon, The Cazimero Brothers, Palani Vaughan, Cyril and Bla Pahinui, and Albert "Baby" Kalima, Jr.

Album Titles:

(press play to hear samples)

1. He Hawai'i Au
2. Kapalaoa
3. Kaulana 'O Waimanalo
4. Wai O Minihaha
5. Ka Lai Opua
6. Ka Moa'e
7. Lei Ona Ona
8. Kaikai Waimea
9. Poli Pumehana
10. Akaka Falls
    
    

"The word 'class' has many definitions and meanings. Webster defines it as 'excellence, especially of style or appearance' and of 'high quality or outstanding ability.' In the Hawaiian language the translation of class is po‘okela, which means 'superior,' 'unsurpassed,' 'the best'... And in the world of entertainment, 'a class act' is one that fellow musicians respect. The Kahauanu Lake Trio – made up of brothers Kahauanu and Tommy Lake, and Al Machida – is all of these definitions," – Ben Wood, columnist for The Honolulu Star-Bulletin

This album, showcasing Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Kahauanu Lake, is a collection of most-requested songs by the trio's fans. The CD booklet includes text and translations.

Album Titles:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Pili Palua
2. Wahine Hololio
3. Pua Lililehua
4. Pua Ahihi
5. Lei Lokelani
6. Hapa-Haole Hula Medley
7. He Aloha No 'O Honolulu
8. Mi Nei
9. A'oia
10. Maile Lau Li'i Li'i
11. Hawaiian Wedding Song
    

"No collection of Hawaiian music is complete without this gem. Simple. Exquisite. Perfect." – The Honolulu Star- Bulletin.

"Kahauanu Lake's trio reigned as one of Waikiki's foremost Hawaiian groups for three decades... Their albums have become standards and are selling as well now on CD as they did back in the days of vinyl." – John Berger, The Honolulu Star-Bulletin

The Trio's harmonies are seamless, and "Mr. K's" arrangements strikingly diverse despite using only three instruments. Here are choice cuts from the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame inductees, whose style is often imitated, never duplicated. Translations for all songs are included.

Album Titles:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Hu'i E
2. E Huli Makou
3. Malolo
4. Kaulana Na Pua
5. Hu'ehu'e
6. Moanalua
7. Aloha Ia O Wai'anae
8. Medley:  Akahi Ho'i/Adios Kealoha. He Lei No Kalakaua
9. Ke 'Ala Ka'u I Honi
10. Ka Paniolo Nui O Moloka'i
11. Waikiki Hula
12. Keolaokalani (Penei No)

Hawaii Calls is proud to present "Blue Hawaii – The Most Requested Songs of the Islands," part of our series of albums – the Hawaii Calls Collection. In response to tens of thousands of requests by visitors, we've compiled a recording of the most requested songs of the Islands – original, authentic Hawaiian songs recorded live by the Hawaii Calls stars that made them famous – including music legends Pua Almeida, Alfred Apaka, Charles K. L. Davis, Haunani Kahalewai, and Nina Keali‘iwahamana – all backed by the Hawaii Calls Orchestra and Chorus.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Blue Hawai'i
2. Waikiki
3. Hukilau
4. Across the Sea
5. Lil' Brown Gal
6. Beyond the Reef
7. Old Plantation (Ku'u Home)
8. Hawai'i Calls
9. Honolulu
10. 'Akaka Falls (Wailele O 'Akaka)
11. Hapa Haole Hula Girl
12. South Sea Island Magic
13. To You, Sweetheart, Aloha
14. Aloha 'Oe (Farewell to You)
    
    

In response to numerous requests for traditional and contemporary Polynesian drum music, we present "Drumbeats of the Pacific, Vol. 2: Songs & Dances of the Islands." Our goal in putting together this project was twofold: to provide visitors to the Islands with musical memories of their stay, and to offer students of music and dance these dance beats representative of the cultures of Rarotonga, Aitutaki Atoll, Pukapuka, Atiu, Manihiki, Mangaia - the Cook Islands, Tahiti, Samoa, Tokelau, and the islands of Wallis and Futuna. ((P)) The package includes an introduction by master drummer Dr. Jon Jonassen as well as brief notes regarding each drum piece.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Rutu Taki:  Samba
2. Drummer's Symphony
3. Rutu Taki:  Ei Roto
4. Takoto
5. Puara-Ta
6. Ani
7. Atiu Enua
8. Paea
9. Borabora
10. Pahe
11. Borabora (Take 2)
12. Mati
    
    

In response to numerous requests for another album of traditional and contemporary Polynesian drum music, Hula Records International is pleased to present volume 3 of "Drum Beats Of The Pacific: Songs and Dances of the Islands."

Our goal in compiling these rhythms was twofold: to provide visitors with musical memories of their stay in the Islands, and to offer students of music and dance these dance beats representative of the cultures of Rorotonga, Aitutaki, Pukapuka, Mangaia - the Cook Islands, and Tahiti. This time, in addition to introductory notes by master drummer Dr. Jon Jonassen, we have included carefully annotated instructions to replicate the drum sequences, making it an invaluable tool for dance groups or for those who just want to try their hand and Pacific Island drumming.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Tavanui E
2. Pa'ea/Rutu Taki/Kakaia
3. Ta'ae O Tangaroa/Takoto
4. Te Ulu Ote Watu
5. Aitutaki/Pukapuka
6. Atavaivalo/Orama
7. Kia Orana
8. Rutu Taki Ei Roto
9. Amuri/Mokora
10. Akauka Ra
11. Mutiny
12. Rutu Taki Ei Roto
13. Pa'ea A'aki Anani
14. Ura Pi'a
    
    

"Evening In The Islands" features the twin steel guitars of two of Hawai‘i's noted musicians: Barney Isaacs and Eddie "Kalani" Pang. Hawaiian music legends Gabby Pahinui (slack-key guitar) and Eddie Kamae (‘ukulele) team up with Kaipo Miller (bass) and Sol Kamahele (guitar), and together with the two wizards of steel, comprise The Maile Serenaders. The lilting voice of Nina Keali‘iwahamana is heard as she delivers an occasional line from each song.

Here are instrumental versions of some of Hawai‘i's most popular songs of all time, with an unusual twist: This is the only instrumental recording of Hawaiian music featuring two steel guitars playing in tandem. The result is both romantic and relaxing; a perfect background for a candle-lit dinner with someone special, for sitting alone an enjoying a beautiful Hawaiian sunset; or for dreaming of your return to these islands.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. I'll Weave a Lei of Stars for You
2. Hula Breeze
3. Soft Green Seas
4. Whispering Lullaby
5. White Ginger Blossoms
6. Evening in the Islands
7. Hana
8. Hawaiian Wedding Song
9. Pearly Shells
10. Blue Hawai'i
11. Love Song of Kalua
12. Hawai'i Calls
    
    

"The Sunday Manoa didn't intend to start a revolution. But when the group released "Guava Jam" in 1969, it did." – Honolulu Magazine, June, 2004

"Guava Jam" introduced a trio of musicians that have been called the "Fathers of Contemporary Hawaiian Music" – Peter Moon, and brothers, Robert and Roland Cazimero, collectively known as The Sunday Manoa.

The album's liner notes say: "Listen, as The Sunday Manoa wrestles with the roots of a musical heritage that goes back hundreds of years, while trying to bind together yesterday and today with dignity and style." By combining traditional music and lyrics with musical innovation and their unique and energetic style, they reinvented the songs and left their imprint on Hawaiian music. This is the album that launched the Hawaiian Renaissance of the 1970s. More recently, it was listed among the 50 Greatest Hawaiian Albums, compiled by a panel of judges for Honolulu Magazine.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Kawika
2. Only You
3. Heha Waipi'o
4. Kaulana 'O Waimanalo
5. Ka'ililauokekoa
6. Mehameha
7. He Hawai'i Au
8. Maika'i Ka Makani O Kohala
9. Ka La'i Opua
10. Poli Pumehana
11. Guava Jam
    
    

"Haiku" is the third in a series pairing the shakuhachi or Japanese bamboo flute by Riley Lee with Jeff Peterson's Hawaiian slack key guitar. While their first two albums explored the simplicity of the bamboo flute and guitar, their latest recording takes their collaboration to a new level, combining flutes and guitar in multilayered arrangements. The addition of a bass adds a deep rhythmic component to the soaring harmonies Riley and Jeff have created for this new collection of originals and old favorites.

 Internationally acclaimed  Riley Lee has recorded over 50 albums, both as a solo artist and in tandem with others playing instruments such as Australia's didjerido. Jeff  Peterson was born and raised on Maui where the music of his Hawaiian heritage provided a foundation for his exploration of classical and jazz forms. Local audiences will recognize him from performances at Milton Lau's annual Ki Ho`alu Festivals or recitals at The Honolulu Academy of Arts. Also a noted composer, Jeff's works have been heard in the US and abroad. Information about the artists, their instrumental stylings andbrief comments about each song are included.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Soaring
2. Mele 'Uhane (Spirit Song)
3. New Moon
4. Nu'uanu Nocturne
5. Haiku
6. Pua Mamane (Mamane Flower)
7. Ku'u Pua I Paoakalani (My Flower in Paoakalani)
8. Hi'ilawe in the Rain
9. Puamana
10. The Night Blooming Cereus (Panini O Ka-Punahou)
11. Makuahine Aloha
12. Waikiki

Founded in 1975 by Howard and Olana Ai, HALAU HULA OLANA, the School of Living Hula, has grown to become one of the largest hula schools in the islands. Hundreds of Hawai‘i's keiki (children) have passed through the halau doors and gone on to charm local audiences and visitors at a multitude of venues on land and aboard cruise ships. Many of them have taken part in annual hula competitions, performed for four American presidents and for dignitaries and audiences overseas. Repeatedly, the halau has been recognized for its excellence.

 The voices of kuma hula Olana Ai and her students are heard at the beginning and end of the CD.  In between, you'll hear Olana's talented family: husband Howard, who arranges the songs, sings and plays ukulele; eldest daughter, Natalie Ai, a Hoku Award-winning singer, delivers powerful vocals, sons Tai and Rhett take turns on the bass; and Natalie's husband ‘Iolani Kamau‘u sings and plays guitar. Together they create the unique Ai family sound as they perform halau favorites. Lyrics and translations to Hawaiian language songs are included.

Album Titles:

(press play to hear samples)

1. 'Ai Pohaku/Kaulana Na Pua
2. Na Mo'olelo Kahiko
3. That's the Hawaiian in Me
4. Ha'a Hula
5. Colors of the Wind
6. Green Rose Hula
7. Puna Ku'u Aloha (Puna, My Love)
8. The Magic Islands
9. Kawika
10. Dolly's Lullaby
11. Surround Me with Love
12. Aloha Chant/Aoha 'Oe
    
    

During the '30s and '40s, as more and more mainlanders were lured to Hawai‘i's shores, the songwriters among them strove to capture the beauty and spirit of the Islands in song. Mainly written in English, with an occasional Hawaiian word or two, these hapa-haole (part foreign) compositions gained popularity with the malihini (visitors).

The Kahauanu Lake Trio was THE group to see in Waikiki from the mid '50s until well into the '80's. Though firmly rooted in Hawaiian tradition, the trio was often asked to perform these hapa-haole favorites by visitors in their audiences. What was a hit with visitors then, is still preferred by many. After all, the music is lovely, the instrumentation distinctly Hawaiian, and the primarily English lyrics understood by most. The acclaimed trio performs some of the most well-known hapa-haole tunes for your enjoyment.

Information concerning each song is included.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Maile Lei
2. Hawaiian Swing Medley (of the 1930s):  Hapa Haole Hula Girl/I Wonder Where My Little Hula Girl Has Gone/Hula Lolo
3. Kaleilehua
4. One Paddle, Two Paddle
5. Kalua (The Love Song of)
6. Haole Hula
7. Ke Kali Nei Au (The Hawaiian Wedding Song)
8. Lahainaluna
9. Moonlight in Hilo
10. Hula Breeze
11. Blue Lei
12. Medley:  The Magic Islands/An Island Love Song
    
    

Just as you'll always remember a beautiful Hawaiian sunset, with its brilliant colors, the soft trade winds blowing your hair, and the warm sea around you, you'll never forget "Hawaii's Favorite Instrumentals." Hawaiian music is not only folk tunes played on 'ukulele and steel guitar. Hawaiian music can also be very full and lush and beautiful, as performed here by the Orchestral Strings.

Hawai‘i's favorite instrumentals are those songs known to all of us in Hawai‘i, and to others who have visited Hawai‘i from around the world: The world famous "Ke Kali Nei Au" (The Hawaiian Wedding Song), "Tiny Bubbles" and "I'll Remember You," and the enduring "Aloha ‘Oe." They're all as memorable as a Hawaiian sunset and the beauty of our Islands.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Hawaiian Wedding Song
2. Pearly Shells
3. Tiny Bubbles
4. I'll Remember You/Days of My Youth
5. Diamond Head
6. The Wonderful World of Aloha
7. Lahainaluna
8. Tropical Night
9. One Paddle, Two Paddle
10. Aloha 'Oe
    
    

No other medium introduced more Hawaiian songs to the world than our live weekly broadcasts of the Hawaii Calls radio show – not vinyl, movies, television, tape or compact discs. "Hawaii Calls Presents: Greatest Hits, Vol. II," is the second offering of a multi-volume compilation of the greatest hits introduced to the world by the show over its 40-year history, performed by the original stars that made them famous. This recording, part of the exclusive Hawaii Calls Collection, contains rare or previously impossible-to-find Hawaiian music that pays homage to the golden era of Hawaiian radio. Among the songs we've selected to conjure up romantic memories and relaxing images of the tropical paradise that is Hawai‘i, are both stellar vocal and virtuoso instrumental performances – all taken from actual live performances.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. I am Hawai'i
2. Hukilau
3. On the Beach at Waikiki (Instrumental)
4. Beyond the Reef
5. Hawaiian War Chant (Instrumental)
6. Song of the Islands
7. Blue Hawai'i
8. Drifting and Dreaming (Instrumental)
9. King's Serenade
10. Mai Poina 'Oe I'au (Instrumental)
11. Hi'ilawe
12. My Isle of Golden Dreams (Instrumental)
13. Aloha 'Oe (Instrumental)
    
    

"When Kahauanu Lake is acknowledged as one of the most significant figures in 20th Century Hawaiian music during the Statehood Era (1959-2000) it's an apt and accurate assessment of his contribution as a musician and vocalist, as a recording artist, and as a conservator of what is true and correct in traditional Hawaiian music and proper usage of the Hawaiian language." – John B. White

"The K-Lake Trio were staunch traditionalists but, with 'Mr. K' at the helm, offered innovation as well. He played custom-made baritone ‘ukulele, took the art of strumming to virtuoso levels and reestablished the (‘ukulele) as a lead instrument in Hawaiian music." – The Honolulu Star-Bulletin

This is the trio's debut album recorded in 1964 and re-released on compact disc in 2000. Complete lyrics, translations and original liner notes – all by the esteemed Jean Sullivan – are included.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Hu'ehu'e
2. Pua 'Ahihi
3. Nani Wale A Ka Mahina
4. Ku'u Hoa Hololio
5. Aloha 'Ia 'O Wai'anae
6. Ka Paniolo Nui O Moloka'i
7. Wahine Hololio
8. Punalu'u
9. Ka Pua U'i
10. Malolo
11. Kaulana Kaua'i
12. Keolaokalani (Penei No)
13. Ke Ka'upu
    
    

In 1973 Raymond Kane became the first slack key (ki ho‘alu) artist to perform a full-length solo recital. He went on to become one of the most widely honored artists in the world of Hawaiian music. Today, a generation of younger musicians has come to revere Raymond's style as the purest example of traditional ki ho‘alu. His many students – including his protege, Michael Lowe – who joins him on this album, ensure that his legacy will live on.

Here is music to calm your thoughts at the end of the day, transporting you to the beach in Nanakuli where Raymond Kane grew up, where each day's sunset sends amber beams of light down O‘ahu's Leeward coast. Listen to the slack key melodies that move with the easy motion of ocean waves at dusk, reminding us that the world always looks a little better as the sun is going down.

Album Titles:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Hu'i E
2. Ke Kaula 'Ili
3. Mo'opuna Lullaby
4. Ahi Wela
5. Na Hoa He'e Nalu
6. La Paloma
7. Ka Punahou
8. Moana Chimes
9. 'Opelu
10. Kuamo'o Slack Key
11. The Sidewalks of New York
12. Papakolea
13. Home Sweet Home
    
    

Another in the Hawaii Calls Collection is "Hawaiian Wedding Song – Songs  For A Hawaiian-Style Wedding" – a recording specifically designed for weddings, from procession to reception – and the memories they evoke. "Hawaiian Wedding Song" is a compilation of the most requested love songs and features the extraordinary vocal stylings of the stars of Hawaii Calls, all backed by the incomparable Hawaii Calls Orchestra and Chorus. It is the only recording available with both vocal and instrumental versions of the ever-popular "Hawaiian Wedding Song" ("Ke Kali Nei Au"). This recording also includes the "original" Hawaiian wedding song "Lei Aloha Lei Makamae" (Forevermore).

To assist you in planning your event, we've included the English lyrics of all of the wedding songs.

Album Tracks:

(press play to hear samples)

1. Hawaiian Wedding Song (Ke Kali Nei Au)
2. I'll Remember You
3. 'Mapuana
4. Paoakalani
5. Moon of Manakoora
6. Beautiful Kahana
7. Beyond the Reef
8. Lei Aloha, Lei Makamae (Forevermore)
9. Beyond the Rainbow
10. Sweet Leilani
11. 'Makalapua (Profuse Bloom)
12. Lovely Hula Hands
13. Pua Mae 'Ole
14. Hawaiian Wedding Song (Ke Kali Nei Au)