‘Ukulele Legacy’

Ohta-san & Herb Ohta Jr.
(Lele Music Productions)

Hawaii’s music has been enriched by the contributions of several families in which talent extends from one generation to the next. This aptly named album by Herb "Ohta-san" Ohta and his son, Herb Ohta Jr., is an excellent example. Ohta-san stands unchallenged as the most prolific ukulele virtuoso of the past half-century. Herb Jr. is an accomplished musician in his own right. They team up here to revisit 11 songs written or co-written by Ohta-san.

The junior Ohta describes the album as "my way of paying tribute … to my friend, my teacher, and my idol." Ohta-san writes, "This is a family affair. Music provided by father and son."

Either way, this nahenahe (sweet, melodious) music deserves attentive listening. Take it all in — the melodic interplay between father and son on clean, acoustic arrangements — and behold what great players can achieve without electronic add-ons. With Ohta-san and Ohta Jr., the purity of the instrument wins out.

www.leiemusicproductions.com

"Wailea"

‘Carmen Takes the Lead’

Carmen U‘ilani Haugen
(Island Viking)

After several decades as a consistently productive songwriter, recording artist and record producer, Keith Haugen has compiled an extensive body of work. His latest project is this anthology of recordings showcasing Carmen U‘ilani Haugen, his wife and performing partner.

The liner notes don’t provide song-by-song details but some of these recordings were originally released by other record labels. The collaboration between labels for this release is a nice touch.

Carmen has always had a beautiful voice whether she was singing lead or harmonizing with Keith. Each selection proves the point.

For his part, Haugen takes the vocal spotlight with several additional songs he wrote in loving tribute to his wife.

For more information, contact Haugen at www.hawaiiansong.com.

www.hawaiiansong.com

"E ‘Ike Mai"