Spirit of Aloha | Articles | Music | July/August 2003

Music
By Ozzie Kotani

Mesmerizing Chant

Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu's approach to the art of Hawaiian chant produces another controversial CD

Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu's new CD, Call It What You Like..., underscores his reputation as a pioneer in Hawaiian music. He has managed the crossover from oli (chant) to mele (song), and it seems to have come quite naturally.

The controversial singer, chanter and kumu hula (hula teacher) makes it clear that his is "an alternative way of chanting." There is, of course, the traditional way, and his departure from it has earned him the labels of "rebel" and "renegade." He explains his approach to his art: "Traditions constantly change. I've chanted for a long time, and the more I delve into it, the more I find myself looking for more ways to chant."

This is a CD that grabs your attention. With a voice that is both masculine and earthy, Ho'omalu chants and sings with a confidence and an energy that flow from within. Says KINE FM 100 radio personality Frank B. Shaner: "His voice is so distinctive and powerful you will catch yourself staring off into the distance, mesmerized by the sound coming from his na'au [gut]. It is what art is supposed to do."

Indeed, this recording showcases a voice that is unforgettable and provocative, beginning with the opening chant, "Keali'i Milimili," which is done without accompaniment and reflects Ho'omalu's love for the older chant styles; to "Kawika/Holo Ana o Kalakaua," a medley honoring King David Kalakaua, with music provided by Ka 'Ehu Kai; to a remarkable arrangement of "He Inoa No Lili'uokalani," layering hula rhythms, chant and a touch of flute; to the Tahitian styling in "Ku Ka 'Oli'oli Na Moku"; and finally to a cut that can stand alone as a dramatic statement on the Hawaiian condition.

This is Ho'omalu's second CD, following the acclaimed Po'okela Chants and two songs of his that were featured in the animated film Lilo & Stitch. What do you do after that success? "I challenge myself with my last creation," he declares. "I need to better the last thing I did."

With Call It What You Like..., he has done just that.

Call It What You Like... by Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu; produced by Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu; distributed by Mountain Apple Co.; 2003.

Hawaiian 105 KINE is the main source of information for this column.

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