Search - Kohala :: Deeper Blue

Deeper Blue

Sandy Shore | Monterey, CA | 09/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of my very favorite memories is a trip I took to Hawaii several years ago. With the very first note of DEEPER BLUE I was instantly transported back to the white sands and gently breaking waves, sipping fresh pineapple juice; without a care in the world. With this exquisite CD, Kohala (pronounced Ko-hall-ah) is able to transport listeners to an auditory world that is pure and natural in its beauty. Influences of folk, jazz and life in Hawaii continue to serve as the foundation and musical inspiration on this seventh release by the guitar trio whose members include Charles Michael Brotman, (who, in 2005, won the first Grammy Award given for Hawaiian music - Best Hawaiian Music Album) handling the melody on nylon string classical guitar; Charlie Recaido; and newest addition, Rupert Tripp, on steel strings. The title track is sublime - a gorgeous melody and dazzling guitar work make this one of the album's standout cuts. "Samba del Sol" follows and once again we are treated to impressive finger work in a delightful piece of music. With some lively percussion added to the mix, "Lime Twist" is another favorite. It's breezy and lighthearted and guaranteed to make you feel good all over. "The Wish" showcases the beauty of simplicity, highlighting the radiance of "less is more." Like the pristine beaches of the Hawaiian Pacific itself, DEEPER BLUE sparkles, charms and casts an unwavering spell that you'll never want to break free of. ~ BETH LEWIS"