CD Review: IN THE SADDLE
It's party time again, as guitarist Ledward Kaapana and steel guitarist Bob Brozman team up for their second songfest of slack and steel duets.
There's one appealing vocal here, "Meleana E," but otherwise, it's all sprightly, sizzling, soulful stuff, occasionally playful, frequently flashy, and uniformly engaging.
From the opening "Ami Ami Slack Key," rich with upbeat tempos and zesty give-and-take, to the closing "Pua Be Still," with its imagery about flowers, this set is flavored with genuine passion.
What's delightful is the new personality brought to familiar favorites, like the gently wafting mood on "No Ke Ano Ahiahi," commonly rendered as an upbeat tune, or the paniolo-country twang on "Lei 'Ohu," the classic often linked with Gabby Pahinui.
And just when you think there's far too much giddy fun, the pair offer two precious and romantic waltzes - the slightly upbeat "Wai'alae Waltz" with reminders of monarchial elegance, and the medium-beat "Ahoe Hakuloa," with Tahitian roots. Outstanding work.
Bob Brozman - King of the National Guitar
Bob Brozman Press Kit Links:
Bob's Biography
Bob's Discography
Print Quality Photos
World Press Quotes
Reviews and Interviews
|
