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EAN: 0761268590145 Label: Big Boy Records Manufacturer: Big Boy Records Number Of Discs: 1 Publisher: Big Boy Records Release Date: March 14, 1995 Studio: Big Boy Records Editorial Review: Amazon.com: To gauge the magnitude of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's popularity in his native Hawaii, consider this: following his death in 1997 (at age 38, attributed to his profound obesity), Kamakawiwo'ole's body lay in state in the state capitol, only the second person to receive such an honor. Kamakawiwo'ole's appeal lies in his love for prestatehood, precondominium Hawaii and the expressiveness of his gently passionate voice, which can float through higher registers with an ease that brings Johnny Mathis to mind. Several selections ("Ka Pua U'i," "White Sandy Beach of Hawai'i," the sun-kissed "La 'Elima") feature Kamakawiwo'ole in a traditional mood, using only his ukulele to adorn the charm of his native lyricism. Others, such as the Jimmy Buffett-like "Maui Hawaiian Sup'pa Man" add playful contemporary touches that suit Kamakawiwo'ole's style. Most touching are the string-backed laments that open and close the album, "Hawai'i '78 Introduction" and "Hawai'i '78," initially a reflection on his father's death, later on the passing of Hawaii's native culture. Best known is his medley "Somewhere over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World," which played over the closing credits of the film Meet Joe Black. --Terry Wood Album Description: There's a smart balance of traditional Hawaiiana and contemporary tunes on this CD. There's heart-tugging warmth along with unexpected chuckles. The end result is a candid, honest reinforcement of his vocal breadth. Average Rating:
![]() Rating: - What a voice!I bought this CD because it had some of the highest reviews I've seen while being a regular Amazon customer. How could by far the largest majority of reviewers give this CD a five star rating without it being an exceptional CD? Thank you reviewers for taking the time to review this CD! Now, I'm the group who say "Buy this CD and improve the quality of your music listening pleasure!!!!" Rating: - IZ voice of the peoplehi from the beautiful land of Italy I think Israel Kamakawiwo'ole ( the fearless eyes the bold face) had a magic touch in his voice and in the way he was able to improvise and rearrange all the songs he sang. the story behind the medley that changed the world is quite interesting ..it is on his biography that Amazon sells as well called: IZ voice of the people. in short: he called the studio in the middle of the night saying he had something in mind and he absolutely had to record it .. he ... Read More Rating: - Facing FutureI love the song Somewhere Over The Rainbow, by him. I had looked all over for it. Rating: - Easy listening easy listening and his Over The Rainbow is the best - Z's voice soft and gentle Rating: - Facing FutureI had never heard of the late Israel Kamakawiwo'ole until the track "What A Wonderful World/ Over The Rainbow was recently played on the radio. This man's voice is truly amazing. |