Keoki Kahumoku and Herb Ohta Jr. are part of the next generation in Hawaiian music. Keoki is the son of singer and 12-string guitarist George, and Herb's father is regarded as a seminal ukulele player. The duo continue in the path their parents have long trodden. There is a softness to the Hawaiian language that sounds awkward coming from me.
Hawaiian music reflects the land, the air and the sea from which it comes.
Kahumoku has a harder edge to his voice than many singers I've heard, an expressiveness that seems to punctuate the lyrics without cutting the fluidity of the melodies. There is great depth in the instrumental work. A bassist appears frequently providing a strong foundation, while occasional appearances of steel guitar add great color. But most of the work revolves around the pair. Keoki, like his father, is also a powerful guitar player.