Keola Beamer's Soliloquy (Ka Leo O Loko) is an incredibly easy CD to listen to. Beamer is a skilled musician from Hawaii, and he creates beautiful music playing his slack-key guitar; when the music is this smooth, that is all you need.

First comes "Pailolo," a gently cascading tune that wraps itself around you. "Kapalua Bay" captures the feel of the sun setting on an open bay. "Kaulana Na Pua" is full of love for one's homeland. The notes trail gracefully, one leading to the other in "Kolowaka."

Next is "Li'i's Song," a beautiful tribute that grabs you and speaks from heart to heart. "Mino'aka" is a restful tune that has the feel of a quiet evening breeze. You can almost see someone hanging the laundry in "Moana's Laundry Basket."

George Winston joins him for a duet in "Na Hala O Naue," a tune that shows the beauty of nature. "Wai Ulu" is a sweet lullaby that soothes you to sleep. There are lyrics hiding just below the surface of the regal "Pauahi 'O Kalani." The opening notes of "Kawohikokapulani" create a sense of longing that carries through to the end.

"The Myna Bird's Dobro" is a delightful tune that dances while "Papa's ïkolehao" is a quieter piece that invites you to sit back and relax. "Ka Makani 'Ula'ula" paints a picture of nature's powerful beauty. The CD closes off with "Pua L”l”lehua," a soft love song.

Soliloquy is a smooth CD that is well worth the listen. Beamer is an excellent musician and this CD demonstrates that well.

[ by Paul de Bruijn ]
Rambles: 29 June 2002