Label: Ala Moana – none
Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, Stereo, Box Set
Country: US
Released: 1965
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Hawaiian, Pacific
Tracklist:
- Hoonani I Ka Makua Mau (chant)/Nani Ke Lii Kiekie
- Hawaii Aloha
- Ula Noweo
- Aloha No Au I Ko Maka
- He Inoa No Kaiulani
- Makalapua
- Hawaii Ponoi
- Kaulana Na Pua
- Hilo March – Koni Au (medley)
- Heha Waipio
- Ke Kali Nei Au
- Maui Chimes
- Pearly Shells
- Beyond The Reef
- Hukilau Song
- Papalina Lahilahi-Kaneohe (medley)
- CLahainaluna
- CE Lei Ka Lei Lei
- Hawaiian War Chant
- D2Ala Moana Rhapsody
- DNaka Pueo (Theme and Variations)
- Lei Aloha Lei Makamae
- No Pa Li La Fantasy
- Finale: I Wish They Didn’t Mean Goodbye-Aloha Oe
Notes:
The 1965 album Music of Hawaii: From the Missionaries Through Statehood by the Jack De Mello Orchestra is a monumental work that chronicles the evolution of Hawaiian music. Released as a two-LP box set, the album offers a sweeping journey through the history of Hawaii’s musical traditions, from the early influences of missionaries to the modern era of statehood. Jack De Mello, a prolific composer and arranger, meticulously curated this collection to showcase the diverse sounds and cultural significance of Hawaiian music.
The album features an extensive tracklist that spans various styles and eras, including chants, hymns, and popular Hawaiian melodies. Songs like “Hawaii Aloha” and “Kaulana Na Pua” reflect the deep cultural roots of Hawaiian music, while tracks such as “Pearly Shells” and “Beyond the Reef” highlight its broader appeal to international audiences. The Jack De Mello Orchestra’s lush arrangements and skilled instrumentation bring these pieces to life, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.
Music of Hawaii: From the Missionaries Through Statehood is not just a musical compilation; it is a cultural artifact that preserves and celebrates Hawaii’s unique heritage. The album’s liner notes provide historical context and insights into the significance of each track, making it an educational resource as well as an artistic achievement. Jack De Mello’s dedication to authenticity and his ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements earned the album widespread acclaim.
The legacy of this album endures as a testament to Jack De Mello’s contributions to Hawaiian music and his commitment to sharing its beauty with the world. It remains a cherished classic, appreciated by music historians and fans alike for its ability to capture the essence of Hawaii’s musical journey. *Music of Hawaii: From the Missionaries Through Statehood* stands as a timeless tribute to the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture.
