Rocky start
well planned, crafted
In Character: Rocky Brown (Discos Tropical)
PHILIPPINE-BORN Rocky Brown blew into Honolulu several years ago with Broadway credits. She seemed to be spinning her wheels for a while but resisted the temptation of defining herself as an expatriate "Filipino singer." Brown likewise resisted the temptation of doing a rush release album. She and producer Kata Maduli took their time and did everything right.
Live musicians play where lesser producers would have used synthesizers. Guest artists embellish arrangements that keep the vocal focus on Brown. The choice of material neatly displays her range -- originals, Hawaiian standards, and well-crafted pop chart remakes.
"State of Independence" was defined by Donna Summer in 1982. Brown and Maduli offer a fresh interpretation that doesn't steal from Summer. The same is true of Brown's renditions of "Time After Time" and "So Far Away." Both were major hits for prominent artists. Both now showcase Brown's considerable vocal talents with fresh arrangements that don't clone or copy the original performances.
Lest it appear her forte is pop chart remakes, Brown sings "Kamalani O Keaukaha" beautifully as well. "Handog" is an appealing nod to her heritage. Unfortunately, an English translation isn't provided.
Two originals hint at past personal tragedies and introduce her as a talented writer. Lesser known songs by other composers contribute further to this beautiful collection.
Hawaiian Tradition: Amy (Mountain Apple Company)
AMY Gilliom's debut album, "Native Child," offered a beautiful, imaginative and expansive vision of what contemporary Hawaiian music could become. Unfortunately, it was evidently too sophisticated for the local market; she didn't even make the final ballot for the Hoku Awards.
Undaunted, she has reinvented herself as Amy Hanaiali'i (her middle name), singer of new old-style Hawaiian music and highly visibly appendage/protege of Willie Awihilima Kahaiali'i (aka Willie K). The duo was a big hit guesting with the Cazimeros on May Day. The music is exquisite.
Gilliom's renditions of "Pohai Kealoha" and "I Ali'i No 'Oe" will win over those who rejected "Native Child." The new songs, most co-written with Kahaiali'i or Keli'i Tau'a, will charm all who appreciate the traditions of 20th century Hawaiian music.
Kahaiali'i keeps the instrumentation simple and uncluttered; the welcome absence of synthetics adds tremendously to the beauty of the arrangements. His virtuousity as a multi-talented musician compliments Gilliom's singing perfectly.
Lyrics, translations, and photos illuminate key facets of the recordings.
John Berger, who has covered the local entertainment scene since 1972, writes reviews of recordings produced by Hawaii artists. See the Star-Bulletin's Home Zone section on Fridays for the latest reviews.
See Record Reviews for some of John Berger's past reviews.
