High Altitude Over Our Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua

High Altitude Over Our Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua is the first album by V/Vm under the name Alien Porno Midgets. Where previous V/Vm compilations featured individual tracks by Alien Porno Midgets, this would be the first full-length concept project under the name. It was released in 2000 as MIDGET01 on V/Vm Test Records. It was pressed on a 7" yellow vinyl disc with a solid green label sticker. The album features severely pitch-shifted covers of Hawaiian and Polynesian songs. It explores the concept of a group of aliens trying to re-create Hawaiian music after hearing it while flying above the Hawaiian islands.

## Liner Notes

### Overview

THE ALIEN PORNO MIDGETS.

The invention of the so called Hawaiian Guitar and its subsequent introduction into the Polynesian islands of the Pacific were key factors in the universal appeal which the romantic music of the South Seas achieved some sixty years ago--an appeal which has miraculously survived the tidal flow of the change in fads, fancies and fashions of popular music during these six decades.

Indeed, it could be said that the invention of this instrument was sheer genius, for it was the perfect medium for the musical translation of the slurs and cadences of the Polynesian languages whose folklore gave birth to this entire realm of popular music. And it remains unrivaled for all who succumb to the lure of playing Hawaiian music, and to the millions around the world who love listening to it.

On this album, one such group of musicians The Alien Porno Midgets have captured so sweetly the moods and feelings of these distant shores. A curious group, The Alien Porno Midgets have been flying high altitude over Hawaii for many years. It is now common in Hawaii for visitors to be disappointed if they fail to see their craft which is often seen hovering at high altitude over the silvery sands in Kealakekua.

During these years at altitude the Midgets found they had gained a huge appetite for Hawaiian music. Before long the Midgets began constructing their own take on this very traditional music. Some of these recordings can be found on this 7" LP. This LP best demonstrates the full playing range capable of re-creating the music they love so much. Despite all the recordings being made at High Altitude the quality remains constant but the occasional dropout can occur.

This is a land of hula, white rolling surf, coral lagoons, and silvery sands which The Alien Porno Midgets music so startlingly and colourfully conjures forth. It is, let's face it, musical escapesville--a brief visit to an illusory romantic paradise, to which we know you will wish to return.....

again and again.

V/Vm.

### Tracks

#### High Altitude Over An Eastern Shore

"High Altitude Over an Eastern Shore" is a gentle introduction to the sound of the Alien Porno Midgets. Listen as they demonstrate their playing ability. In particular pay attention to the melody line played in perfect pitch and time by musicians unafraid to experiment.

#### Hula Hula

A slight breeze during recording helps us feel a sway throughout this recording of the popular Alien Porno Midgets track "Hula Hula". Currently used by the tourist board of Hawaii to greet foreign visitors to the shores., this recording again provides the Midgets to once again showcase their musical talents using their very secretive equipment enabling them to replicate the sunshine mood so often found on such recordings.

#### Blue Hawaii

For Many years the question of Elvis' whereabouts has been in debate. For many it has been cut and dry and Elvis is dead. Others like to believe that Elvis is still alive. Through this recording of the timeless favourite "Blue Hawaii" It can now be revealed for the first time that Elvis is alive and well, resident on the midgets craft. Skillfully they combine his vocal talents into their own interpretation of this classic number. Sounding better than ever "Blue Hawaii" reveals that there is still life in the old hound dog.

#### Tea for Two

An old favourite of the Alien Porno Midgets is the melody line in "Tea for Two". So it really was their pleasure to record one of their favourites in their own inimitable Hawaiian style. You can picture the setting now, swaying palm trees, the gentle rush of a warm summer breeze with hot sweet tea in hand whist gazing longingly into the eyes of the one you love.

#### Our Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua

The title track of this LP and one based on the usual location of their whereabouts over Hawaii. The Alien Porno Midgets can most often be found at high altitude over Kealakekua playing the brand of music they love, as found on this disc. This track best demonstrates how well they appreciate the interaction of both melody, the traditional Hawaiian beat and the sway of a palm tree. If you can close your eyes you cannot help but be transported onto the golden sands with your toes submerged in the warm blue waters.

#### Hawaiian Signal Loss

When transmitting from High Altitude there is often a slight chance of signal loss. "Hawaiian Signal Loss" perfectly illustrates the difficulty at High Altitude. The slightest change in air pressure can cause severe disharmony and severely effect the recording process.

#### Aloha he

Showcasing their own vocal talents, here the Alien Porno Midgets wish us well in traditional Hawaiian style. A tear develops in our eyes as we realise it is now time to say goodbye. With their help we take away new memories and sensations, and we hope that we will soon meet again on those ever so golden shores.

## Gallery

Album artwork. (scan)Liner notes. (scan)Yellow-green 7" disc. (scan)