Search - Bla Pahinui :: Guava Soul

Bla Pahinui comes from an illustrious Hawaiian musical family. His father is Gabby Pahinui, the father of modern slack key, and his brothers, Cyril, Martin and Philip, have also made their mark. Of all the Pahinuis, Bla has been the most adventurous in terms of styles. The exquisitely titled "Guava Soul" is the perfect description of his approach to music: a touch of the tropics, a touch of the blues, full-bodied and deep -- this is Bla having fun and at his best. His gentle voice, his strong instrumental accompaniment and his dynamic sense when choosing material which is perfect for him: these elements come together to create a warm album that reaches back to the past while leaning forward. To start with his voice, he falls into a select group of singers which includes Aaron Neville, Sam Cook, Otis Redding -- so soulful, so moving. He is perhaps not as polished as some, but his emotional voice is totally captivating. As a guitarist, he is a left-hander playing a right-handed instrument upside down. For the most part, his guitar work is hidden behind the backup band, but when it peeks through, it is like a ray of sunshine. Bla Pahinui, while not a prolific recording artist, is one who enjoys his music and chooses it well. Whether reaching into his traditional past or into his affinity with soul music, he gives everything he has. Instrumentally, Guava Soul presents a tight, focused group of talented musicians. The result is a recording which connects.