Label: Liberty – SLBY 1354
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo
Country: UK
Released: 1966
Genre: Jazz, Pop, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Easy Listening, Pacific, Hawaiian
Tracklist:
- E Lei Ka Lei Lei
- Beyond The Reef
- The Girl From Ipanema
- Call Me
- Friendly Islands
- Everything In The Garden
- Pearls (Mexican Pearls)
- Hawaii
- I'll Remember You
- Jerusha's Theme
- Oro (God Of Vengeance)
- Hawaiian Rhapsody
- Return To Paradise
- Sukiyaki
Notes:
Martin Denny's 1966 album Hawaiian Touch is a remarkable addition to his celebrated discography, blending his hallmark exotic soundscapes with the timeless allure of Hawaiian music. Denny, widely regarded as the "Father of Exotica," was known for crafting mesmerizing audio environments, weaving together lush arrangements and evocative melodies that transported listeners to faraway locales. *Hawaiian Touch* epitomizes his ability to marry musical innovation with the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, making it a standout work in his repertoire.
The album features Denny's interpretations of classic Hawaiian melodies, infused with his signature Exotica-style arrangements. Songs such as "Beyond the Reef" and "The Hawaiian Wedding Song" showcase his deft touch in blending traditional Polynesian sounds with modern instrumentation, creating a unique auditory experience. Utilizing vibraphones, piano, and bird calls, among other elements, Denny paints a sonic picture of sun-drenched beaches and lush rainforests. The artistry and attention to detail in Hawaiian Touch demonstrate Denny's dedication to honoring Hawaii's musical heritage while giving it a contemporary twist.
Released during the height of Denny's popularity, *Hawaiian Touch* struck a chord with audiences eager for the escapism and romance that his music provided. The album reflects a broader cultural fascination with the Hawaiian Islands in mid-20th-century America, bolstered by the increase in tourism and media representations of the Pacific paradise. Martin Denny's work, including this album, played an instrumental role in shaping perceptions of Hawaii and introducing the broader public to its musical traditions, albeit through his unique lens.
Today, Hawaiian Touch remains a beloved entry in Martin Denny's catalog, celebrated by fans of Exotica and Hawaiian music alike. The album continues to resonate with listeners who seek a connection to the spirit of the islands or a sense of nostalgia for the era. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its musical quality but also in its ability to evoke the magic and mystery of Hawaii, embodying the essence of escapism that defined much of Denny's artistry.
