Eric Lee hits sweet spot with his latest project

‘Kawehilani’

Eric Lee
(Lee Enterprises)

Eric Lee’s last project was a single of the Leonard Cohen anthem "Hallelujah" which presented him as a mainstream pop artist. "Kawehilani" brings him back to his Hawaiian roots; most of the songs are Hawaiian standards, and most of the others are played in the traditional nahenahe (sweet, melodious) style.

Lee uses studio technology to multitrack his voice and accompany himself on both six- and 12-string guitar; Rodney Bejer, a friend from their days as members of the Ka‘ala Boys, plays bass and contributes some additional vocals.

The two kick things off with a zesty arrangement of "Ka Lama ‘Ae One" and continue with crisp renditions of "Ho‘oheno Keia No Beauty" and "Wahine U‘i." When they slow the pace with "No Na Mamo," Lee shows he can do much more than strum chords.

Lee documents his work with two booklets of liner notes that contain Hawaiian lyrics, English translations and cultural information in English and Japa­nese.<

www.ericleehawaii.com

"Ka Lama ‘Ae One"

‘Kailua’

Don Stewart Soon
(Don Stewart Soon)

Don Stewart Soon’s debut album displays his versatility as a songwriter. The title song is an acoustic reggae instrumental. Other selections show his talent as a lyricist in other genres — rock ("Bad Boys"), romantic acoustic pop ("The Letter") and electric jazz ("Lewers Street Talk").

Electric keyboards give a distinct ’70s feel to two songs. "Why Must It End" is the "mea culpa" of a cad. Next comes "We Can Make It," which appears to be the cad’s repentance.

A song titled "Paddlin’ with Bob" reveals Soon’s whimsical side. "It’s far better to ask for forgiveness than consent," Soon proclaims as he sings about sneaking away from waxing his girlfriend’s car to enjoy a day of ocean sports.

Soon adds variety by featuring women as guest vocalists on several songs. Carol Gaylor and bassist Marcus Huber get the spotlight on "Closing Time," a seductive jazz tune that is one of the most appealing songs on the album.

www.donstewartsoon.com

"Why Must It End"