Customer Reviews

Legends of Falsetto

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One hallmark of classic Hawaiian music is the distinctive sound of "leo ki'eki'e," or falsetto singing. This disc collects a couple dozen first-rate examples of the style, gathered off of old singles on the HTP, Bell and 49th State record labels. A few tracks are of older vintage, dating back to the '30s -- most are postwar recordings, and include several lesser-known performers, along with legends such as Lena Machado and Gabby Pahinui. It's an odd and appealling style; perhaps off-putting to some, but great once you get into it. Highly recommended.

For those who want pre-statehood Hawaiian tunes, you must have this CD. This is not for those who want more modern or contemporary music with a Hawaiian accent. This is the real stuff.

What a great album--this is Hawaiian music at its best. The songs and the performances are all superior. Here is that gift of the perfect balance of longing and joy that only the best Hawaiian music can offer.

I stumbled upon this by accident. If you had suggested before, I listen to 22 tracks of any music from the Hawaiian Isles I'd have thanked you kindly and backed away. How wrong could I have been?! This CD is just the finest, dreamiest CD I have listened to in an age. The melodious tones just waft over you like a welcome breeze on a hot summer's night. Pop this magical disc in your CD player, press the repeat button, turn down the lights grab a long drink and you have the cheapest travel you could ever take. You will be magically transported to the Pacific Isles and back without leaving your hammock (or your living room). One thing that was also quite revelationary was the insight I gained into the Hawaiin peoples. Having listened to this CD a couple of hunded times I can maybe appreciate their zen-like approach to life. Let's hope this leads to a deeper understanding of an truly fascinating culture of which this is but one part - and no Elvis in sight!

I have always been a big fan of Hawaii'an falsetto singing. This CD is the finest collection of falsetto singing ANYWHERE! It includes 22 recordings, and some tracks from recorded material early as the 1930's.

Hawaiia'an falsetto sing, also called leo ki'eki'e, has been popular for over a hundred years. After listening to this CD, you'll see why. The CD literally sparkles with mirth, sensitivity, and genuine humor, and the vocals are simply beautiful.

Even people who don't like traditional music will love this CD. Guaranteed to have you dancing and singing along with the singers! Beautiful!!

2001 Anthology of the Year! Received the prestigious Na Hoku Hanohano Award from the Hawaiian Academy of Recording Arts. There is no other style of singing that brings with it such intense tropical passion and raw power. A truly great Hawaiian falsetto singer is able to sustain a lofty note to it's outer limits, grab a split second gasp of air, soar to an even higher register, and then dance in that rare air with the utmost control and grace. Passion, romance, control, and power all combine to define the best of the Hawaiian Falsetto Singers. This is a careful compilation featuring a stunning variety of Hawaii's legendary falsetto singers, each recorded in their prime over 50 years ago. 22 classic recordings by 22 different legendary performers! 11 men & 11 women: Bill Ali'iloa Lincoln, Lena Machado, Joe Keawe, Genoa Keawe, George Kainapau, Nora Keahi Santos, Benny Kalama, Linda Dela Cruz, Gabby Pahinui, Myrtle K. Hilo, Andy Cummings, Flora Waipa, George Pokini, Agnes Malabey, John Pi'ilani Watkins, Sally Kahoiwai Peters, John Keawehawaii, Tina Ka'apana, David Kaho'onei, Dorothy Kalima, Kai Davis & Mabel Kekino. This wonderful presentation is a must for the collections of both the young aspiring falsetto singer, and the Hawaiian falsetto fan.