When the sound of Hawaii comes to mind, one tends to think of the soothing rhythms of the ukulele set to the gentle rustling of waves – background music commonly used in elevators, spas, and tropical-themed occasions. While Hawaiian music is often soothing and rhythmic, it is so much more than good background. Music is the very fabric of Hawaiian culture, its humble beginnings rooted in the origins of its people and its later evolution sparked by the arrival and…

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Being among the most recognizable artists in Hawaii is more often challenging than it is glamorous. Just ask Iration, or better yet, Henry Kapono. It means living up to higher expectations each time. Kolohe Kai set those expectations for themselves early on, so in many ways it’s themselves they have to live up to.  Since making a splash on the local airwaves in 2009, Kolohe Kai has released 3 albums and a handful of singles in recent years. The “rascals…

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It’s not easy becoming a household name in the islands, but Henry Kapono sure made it look that way. With a Grammy-nomination and countless Na Hoku Awards courtesy of the passion and diligence poured across 15 albums, it’s any wonder as to what Kapono can’t accomplish. These days the legendary artist has set his sights on something beyond him – the next generation of Hawaiian music stars. Kapono recently established the Henry Kapono Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting Hawaiian…

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No other modern reggae band has risen quite like Iration. They are at once a throwback to feel-good reggae while drawing from current pop-rock for inspiration – a sonic fusion that makes them the perfect mood-setter for day-to-day beach cruising. Bands like Ekolu and Kolohe Kai may already reign supreme on that front, but there’s always room for more.  Whether you’re looking to kick back, dive in, or straight up dance, this five-piece outfit has got you covered. Their latest self-titled album…

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The pure tropical, fun in the sun atmosphere of Hawaii may conjure lots of play, but there is plenty of nuance to be found. Whereas other musicians cater to summer party beach vibes, artist Kimie Miner lurks in that quiet reverie just before sundown. That brief moment of peace stolen not for cameras and pictures, but for the soul. Her third album, Proud as the Sun, invites listeners to bathe in the shimmering beauty found within. Her songs and the…

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There’s nothing more appealing and summer-appropriate than kicking back on the beach. Local artists have sung about cooling off and catching surf, but no one does it quite like Kolohe Kai – a group that has mined the unbridled imagery and energy of fun in the sun and producing equally joyous tunes. Kolohe kai translates to “rascals in the water.” Some may be all work and no play, but Kolohe Kai renders Hawaii all play, all day through their sincere,…

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