Part Hawaiian, part Caribbean, and all too good
to pass up. This statement alone would be sufficient to describe
Jawaiian Jamma Reggae -- but it hardly constitutes a review. So I
press on.
As its name subtly suggests JJR is a fusion of
traditional Hawaiian music and reggae (of the UB40 variety as opposed
to the newer dancehall styles of Red Rat etc). This rare pairing of
“world” music styles flows seamlessly and exhibits strong
characteristics of both genres: the string/guitar work reminds me of
what little Hawaiian music I’ve heard, while the backing and beat
are undeniably reggae-influenced.
All the instruments are well played (that’s
right – this isn’t computer generated!) and the mixing is
admirable. The melodies are pleasant and non-repetitive, while the
percussion section is crisp and layered. The soundtrack as a whole
exudes that beautiful “island” quality that puts the listener at
ease. This is what you want to listen to on your day off work, when
your biggest problem is which glass to pour the Bacardi in.
Only one problem comes to mind with JJR and
it’s not likely to matter to most people: the lead vocals seemed
rather contrived and wholly indicative of being written/performed by
someone who is neither from Jamaica nor has a strong hold on the
reggae genre from the vocal standpoint. Lyrically the emphasis was on
the fact that the song was a reggae/Hawaiian hybrid with some catch
phrases thrown in for good measure. While this may make the hardcore
reggae enthusiast wince (I suppose being selected by a reviewer with
Caribbean lineage is mere luck of the draw) chances are the crowd to
whom Ka Emu Kai likely appeals the most wouldn’t make the
distinction. Regardless it would be nice to hear an instrumental
version of the song, if for nothing else to study the seamless fusion
of musical styles.
Jawaiian Jamma Reggae is a beautiful track. If
you want a diversion from the same ol’ same ol’ point your browser
to the URL below.
