Na Palapalai: Masters of Modern Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar

Na Palapalai is a contemporary Hawaiian music trio celebrated for their mastery of the slack key guitar tradition and rich vocal harmonies. Hailing from the island of Hawaiʻi, the group has become a staple of the island music scene, releasing a string of award-winning albums that have solidified their status as cultural ambassadors.

Early career

The group's foundation is the lifelong musical partnership between cousins Ahiʻipua Kanahele and Kehau Tamure, who began performing together in their youth. The trio officially formed in 1999, taking its evocative name, which translates to "the ferns," from the lush greenery of their Hilo homeland, and quickly established a reputation for their authentic sound.

Breakthrough

Na Palapalai's national breakthrough arrived with their 2003 album Makani 'Olu'olu, released on the esteemed Hawaiian music label 'Ohelo Records. This collection of classic and original songs resonated deeply, earning the group multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, Hawaiʻi's premier music honors, and bringing their sound to a much wider audience.

Key tracks

ʻUlupalakua — This beloved track is a prime example of their intricate slack key guitar work and seamless trio harmonies.

Lei Pikake — A classic Hawaiian love song revitalized by the group's tender vocal delivery and gentle instrumentation.

Pua Lilia — An original composition that showcases their songwriting skill within the traditional Hawaiian musical framework.

Ka Makani Kaʻili Aloha — This song highlights their ability to interpret timeless Hawaiian melodies with profound feeling.

The group's success continued with subsequent albums like Nā Honu and Ke ʻAla Beauty, each garnering critical acclaim and further awards. Their commitment to the Hawaiian language and musical forms, such as kī hōʻalu (slack key guitar), has made them a respected voice in the cultural renaissance, leading to collaborations with legends like Dennis Kamakahi and appearances at major festivals.

Listeners who enjoy Na Palapalai's authentic island sound should also explore the music of Kealiʻi Reichel, a leading figure in Hawaiian music known for his powerful vocals and cultural stewardship. The classic harmonies of The Brothers Cazimero represent an earlier generation's influence on groups like Na Palapalai. For more contemporary slack key guitar brilliance, check out Jeff Peterson, a master instrumentalist. The uplifting island rhythms of Maunalua also share a similar commitment to modernizing traditional Hawaiian music.

Na Palapalai's music is a regular feature on Hawaiian music and island-style radio stations, where their soothing slack key guitar melodies and harmonious vocals provide a genuine soundtrack to the Pacific lifestyle. They are frequently played on stations dedicated to world music and acoustic folk formats that appreciate intricate musicianship and cultural depth.

You can hear the beautiful Hawaiian music of Na Palapalai on radio stations featured on our website. Explore the stations available on onairium.com to discover their award-winning tracks and immerse yourself in the sound of modern Hawaiʻi.