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CD Reviews: Willie K
Awihilima: Reflections Maui Tribe Productions
Finally! For those Willie fans that have been waiting for an all-Hawaiian album, wait no longer. Awihilima: Reflections features 14 songs of old Hawai`i, complete with childhood memories. Willie pays homage and tribute to those who have come before, and honors the music that helped shape his art from an early age. Songs learned by his father’s side have remained with him, as evident in the nursery rhyme “Kau Ele Makule / C-A-T”. The entire CD offers a look back at old Hawai`i, with historic images, liner notes and English translations where available; all printed in black and white. Liner notes from Tom Hall, George Benson, Harold Kama, Sr. and Aunty Thelma all paint the picture of Willie K as one of Hawai`i’s musical treasures. Musically, the collection takes the listener to another time, with the hooting, howling, effects and instrumentation give a downhome feel; like you walked into a backyard party in full swing. Favorites include the sweet melody of “Na Moku Eha”, telling of the majestic beauty of the islands and their respective mountains. “Luau Hula” kicks the CD off with a frisky riff and tasty six-string work. Reflections shows off Willie’s versatility and vocal strength and has fun doing it. He is accompanied on the album by the respected steel guitar work of Harold Kama Sr. and Henry Allen. Bass heavyweight Marcus Johnson fortifies the foundation and Margaret Rainsford can be heard tickling the ivories on a tune or two. Awihilima: Reflections is available at music stores island wide and is distributed throughout the mainland as well. Tell your in-laws in Wisconsin to pick one up and support Hawaiian music! Mark D’Antonio · MAUI TIME * Vol.5 Issue #09, October 9, 2001
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