Kahua

KAHUA is a foundation, a base, a platform. The basis and the foundation of the group Kahua, is their shared love and commitment to traditional Hawaiian music. These young men came together rather recently, and have in a relatively short time together distinguished themselves in performing Hawaiian music, falsetto, and ki ho'alu (slack key guitar).

Mali'o e (Greetings Mali'o) is a collection of some of the best-loved Hawaiian songs. Classic falsetto numbers "Na Ka Pueo," "'Alekoki," and "I Ali'i No 'Oe" feature Miyashita's unique falsetto. Morikone's prowess on ki ho'alu is manifest in the instrumental selections "Slack Key Hula," and "Keoki's Slack Key." Guest artist and ki ho'alu virtuoso, Cyril Pahinui joins Morikone in "Slack Key Hula."

Track Listing

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1. Na Ka Pueo

2. Kahua o Mali'o

3. Papalina Lahilahi

4. Ka'a Ahi Kahului

5. Kauoha Mai

6. 'Alekoki

7. Pua Hone

8. Slack Key Hula

9. Kalapana Hawai'i

10. I Ali'i No 'Oe

11. I Want You Back

12. Keoki's Slack Key

13. Green Rose Hula

Kahua revives "Kalapana Hawai'i" which was a big hit some years ago, though not recorded since. With an intriguing arrangement, "Kauoha Mai" Lena Machado’s risqué song is not sung as a falsetto as is common.

The beautiful "Pua Hone" and playful "Papalina Lahilahi" are dance favorites that should inspire a hula or two.

The pop flavored "I Want You Back," was penned by Kevin Morikone and expresses his frustration over a breakup.

The title for the CD comes from the new song "Kahua o Mali'o," which was written for Kahua by the award-winning poet and Hawaiian scholar Puakea Nogelmeier. Nogelmeier writes, "Mali'o's charms were magical, her music entrancing, and her hospitality unsurpassed. Kahua o Mali'o, her domain in Puna, Hawai'i, was renowned as the ultimate fulfillment of one's wishes and pleasures. The phrase is synonymous today with the comfort and delight of good friends, fine food, and wonderful music."

In celebrating Mali'o it is hoped that the music of Kahua becomes part of what enchants and brings joy to all who revel in the tradition of mele Hawai'i.

read 2 recent reviews of Mali'o e Honolulu Advertiser 9/6/02 Honolulu Star-Bulletin 8/30/02

Kahua represents a new generation of young musicians performing traditional Hawaiian music. Theirs is a fresh, contemporary sound while they steer clear of the ubiquitous reggae beat often prevalent in new music. Their vibrant and exuberant arrangements give exciting new life to some of Hawai'i's most popular songs. The trio includes Kevin Morikone on lead and ki ho'alu (slack key) guitar, Gavan Miyashita on 'ukulele and rhythm guitar, and Nakana Wong on acoustic bass.

Morikone is an accomplished guitarist and ki ho'alu stylist. His mentors include virtuosos Cyril Pahinui, Ledward Ka'apana and Ozzie Kotani. Bassist Nakana Wong is the Hawaiian language specialist of the group, he ensures that the 'olelo (language) is correct. He cites as his influences the late Aunty Violet Pahu Liliko‘i as well as jazz bassists Ray Brown and Red Mitchell. Lead singer Gavan Miyashita has loved Hawaiian music from childhood. His unique falsetto voice is a tribute to the late Dennis Pavao.