Keola Beamer & Raiatea

I enjoyed this album like her other ones, though I think she's strong enough to stand on her own and doesn't need another performer with her, though a lot of people like duets. That said, Keola is a talented co-performer for her. The songs are well selected, though, like others have said before, I think John Lennon is the only one who should sing Imagine. I always admire Raiatea for stepping up, as a young person, and preserving the truly traditional, beautiful sounds of Hawai'i. I would have preferred all the songs to be Hawai'ian like her other albums, but the ones here are excellent!

Another reviewer said that Raiatea was strong enough to stand on her own without another performer as if this is a bad thing. I don't think this album was about helping the singer along. I think it was about joining lovely forces to make a mutual album that is glorious in its own right. Get this album. You won't regret it.

I was born and raised in Hawaii and lived there up until five years ago when I moved to the continent. I miss everything about home; I miss the people, the ocean, the music, and especially the Hawaiian culture. It's artists like Raiatea that remind me of home and its beauty. Not only does she capture the essence of the Hawaiian spirit through her melodic voice, but her songs such as "Where I hold you" really awakens the soul. When I close my eyes I can actually imagine myself sitting on the beach with the sun on my face, caring about nothing else but the present moment. Not too many artists can do this, but she effortlessly accomplishes this. Well done Raiatea, you truly represent Hawaii and it's people well.

It is gratifying to hear such a warm and lovely result of a collaboration between two of Hawaii's finest. This recording bridges generations, families, musical styles and tastes. Each performer brings their considerable talent to bear and allows each to shine collaboratively and as individuals. Mr. Lennon would likely be glad his mana'o and his music enjoy such a dynamic, lively existence and happier still that it is shared in such a unique and haunting way!

Purchased this album while vacationing in Hawaii, and found it extremely good for just unwinding at the end of the day. Marvelous balladry by Keola and Raiatea...who knew they would sound so good together? "Ina", their interpretation of John Lennon's "Imagine" is simply haunting, particularly when Keola begins chanting...chicken skin kine!