Review
Operation Aloha CD Review
- Author:
- Review Date:
- 04/20/2009
The eclectic mix of members from Maroon 5, Phantom Planet, and Gomez (among others) produces a unique album that integrates Hawaiian Folk and Alternative Rock into a whole new genre. The album succeeds in delivering an island atmosphere with the laid-back and ingenious musicianship of some of today’s most popular bands. Rock and Blues intermingle closely with the Hawaiian Spirit and give us one of the most unique offerings I’ve heard in a while.
From the first song “Ika Pono”, you immediately feel that sensation of tranquility and relaxedness no matter where you are. The album succeeds at partnering an already established idea and feeling of the “Aloha Spirit” with exceedingly talented members of each band that contribute greatly to the connection of the Hawaiian Islands to contemporary music.
Knowing that each member of this collaboration came together for one month on the Beautiful island of Maui, away from their hectic schedules further allows me to see their dedication and passion as musicians who want to have a good time, relax, and record some good music. “Failure” is the perfect example of Island exposition with a rock-inspired atmosphere. It brings together the two ideas and creates an offering of smooth and intelligent songwriting and composition.
Again, the songs are original and beautifully conceptualized and there’s not much to do but listen and smile. You might even want to take a trip to Maui yourself to take part in what this CD is displaying. It’s that Bohemian atmosphere that attracts you to the sound of Operation Aloha, and it’s the clever and intelligent composition that keeps you listening. “Secret Song” accentuates this atmosphere with mystery and puts you in an unknown place that both haunts you and surprises you.
“Phone Booth” is another one of my favorites because of the feeling of compassion and meaningful desperation that the song emits. It’s heart-felt, but still calm and understanding. The beauty of the album as a whole is self-evident and is greatly displayed with tracks like this one.
The randomness is what keeps the album fresh. This album wasn’t planned, and it sure doesn’t sound like it. The spontaneity throughout is another contributor to the album’s beauty and ultimately gives it the laid-back feeling that reminds us a little of a combination among a couple of rock-lovin’, blues-inspired Hawaiian friends on a Sunday afternoon.
It’s the perfect album for fans of any of the bands mentioned above, rock music in general, as well as those inspired by the Aloha Spirit. You can’t go too wrong with a CD like this. Maybe more bands should get some friends together, fly away, and spontaneously create albums in secluded locations. For me, that wouldn’t be a bad thing at all.
From the first song “Ika Pono”, you immediately feel that sensation of tranquility and relaxedness no matter where you are. The album succeeds at partnering an already established idea and feeling of the “Aloha Spirit” with exceedingly talented members of each band that contribute greatly to the connection of the Hawaiian Islands to contemporary music.
Knowing that each member of this collaboration came together for one month on the Beautiful island of Maui, away from their hectic schedules further allows me to see their dedication and passion as musicians who want to have a good time, relax, and record some good music. “Failure” is the perfect example of Island exposition with a rock-inspired atmosphere. It brings together the two ideas and creates an offering of smooth and intelligent songwriting and composition.
Again, the songs are original and beautifully conceptualized and there’s not much to do but listen and smile. You might even want to take a trip to Maui yourself to take part in what this CD is displaying. It’s that Bohemian atmosphere that attracts you to the sound of Operation Aloha, and it’s the clever and intelligent composition that keeps you listening. “Secret Song” accentuates this atmosphere with mystery and puts you in an unknown place that both haunts you and surprises you.
“Phone Booth” is another one of my favorites because of the feeling of compassion and meaningful desperation that the song emits. It’s heart-felt, but still calm and understanding. The beauty of the album as a whole is self-evident and is greatly displayed with tracks like this one.
The randomness is what keeps the album fresh. This album wasn’t planned, and it sure doesn’t sound like it. The spontaneity throughout is another contributor to the album’s beauty and ultimately gives it the laid-back feeling that reminds us a little of a combination among a couple of rock-lovin’, blues-inspired Hawaiian friends on a Sunday afternoon.
It’s the perfect album for fans of any of the bands mentioned above, rock music in general, as well as those inspired by the Aloha Spirit. You can’t go too wrong with a CD like this. Maybe more bands should get some friends together, fly away, and spontaneously create albums in secluded locations. For me, that wouldn’t be a bad thing at all.