Post #473349 by Kaiwaza on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 1:46 PM

Here's a budget "Crown" label LP that actually had a HIT SONG in Hawaii.."Hilo Bay." It is STILL heard today and was covered by well-known local group The Peter Moon Band in the 80s and both versions are still around on the airwaves. Richard Kauhi was greatly loved in Hawaii, but because it was a mainland issued release "Hawaiian Sunset" is virtually unknown and never seen, despite the "Hilo Bay" hit (strictly airplay). I actually prefer this LP to his better known material on local "Waikiki Records." At any rate, I would compare him to, say, Nat King Cole's jazzy period. Great stuff.

Japanese pop singer, now deceased, Yuzo Kayama, recorded both a Hawaiian & Tahitian LP, gatefold, with fantastic color picture booklets inside. It's great music as well, although in Japanese of course..full orchestras, chorus a very rousing theatrical Tahitian epic film-type number...love it.

Musically, nice & a bit 70s groovy in the arrangements..I mostly like the record jacket too.