Genre: Jazz, Pop
Style: Pacific, Hawaiian, Exotica
Year: 1961
Tracklist:
- My Tane
- Little Island
- The Moon Of Manakoora
- China Sea
- Beyond The Reef
- Sand In My Shoes
- Poinciana
- Return To Paradise
- Sea Breeze
- Moon Mist
- Ebb Tide
- Honorable Hong Kong Rock
Notes:
“Polynesian Fantasy” is a captivating album released in 1961 by The Out-Islanders, a one-time collaboration of many of the music industry’s leading sidemen brought together by arranger and conductor Billy May, and saxophonist Charlie Barnet. The album features a delightful collection of Hawaiian-themed tracks, including “My Tane,” “Little Island,” and “Beyond the Reef,” each performed with lush orchestrations and a distinctly exotic flavor. The music is characterized by its rhythmic swing and the use of traditional Hawaiian instruments, creating a truly immersive listening experience.
Billy May, renowned for his work with Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, brought his exceptional arranging skills to the project, while Charlie Barnet’s saxophone added a warm and vibrant touch. The album also features top session players of the era, such as pianist Jimmy Rowles, saxophonist Ted Nash, guitarist Al Hendrickson, and drummer Irv Cottler. The addition of wordless vocals by Marni Nixon and Loulie Jean Norman on several tracks enhances the album’s dreamy and evocative atmosphere.
Released by Capitol Records, “Polynesian Fantasy” received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of Hawaiian stylings with modern orchestration. Billboard praised the album for its “lush, Hawaiian stylings with much use of the steel guitar and various percussion instruments of the Islands, set against a substantial woodwind section,” describing it as a “real listening experience in this Polynesian fantasy”. The album’s success solidified The Out-Islanders’ place in the exotica genre, appealing to listeners seeking a musical escape to the South Seas.
Today, “Polynesian Fantasy” remains a cherished classic among fans of exotica and Hawaiian music. Its timeless appeal and the exceptional artistry of its creators make it a must-have addition to any music collection. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or discovering it for the first time, this album is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise with its enchanting melodies and evocative arrangements.
