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 Facing Future :: 9588161487
Description
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| 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 Editorial Descriptions are usually submitted by the manufacturers, publishers and authors. Contact us if you are one of them, and wish to change the above description. |
Reviews
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Author: Guest
It took me months to find out who did this haunting version of SOTR. The story of Israel was even more interesting than finding the recording. What a talent taken too young. I will warn you if you want Facing Future primarily for Somewhere it appears it was a concert cut and IZ has a dedication name of Gabby on the front end and an unusual vocal close out. I want to use the recording for family pictures etc and I did not expect this. I'll bet he has it on another album with a clean cut from a recording studio. The rest of Facing Future is in his native language but it is still enjoyable....what a voice.
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Author: Guest
Simply beautiful. I've always enjoyed the song but when I heard IZ's version played in a portion of the background of our son's wedding video I had to have the CD. His voice is so smooth and the melody takes you away to a beautiful place leaving all your cares behind. What a loss to the music world when we lost IZ
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Author: Guest
IZ had a voice of passion and beauty. His music is timeless. He died so young - it was a tragedy. But his music has spread around the world despite his early demise. You need not be Hawaiian to love him.
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Author: Guest
I bought this for Iz's rendition of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". I'd heard it many times in movies and on tv commercials, I had to have it. What I didn't expect was an absolutely awesome cd with his other material. It's a relaxing cd and by listening to it, you're somehow transported to the land of sandy beaches and wavy palm trees. I would strongly recommend this to anyone and will be buying more of his cd's in the near future. It's sad to know that Iz is no longer with us, but he's that awesome! So glad his music is able to live on.
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Author: Guest
I didn't think I'd be this crazy about a cd. Iz has a way of talking to your heart. I was never interested in Hawaii until I heard his music. It made me aware of the people that live there and their forefathers that have gone on before them.
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