Label: Crown Records (2) – CLP 5110
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Mono
Country: US
Released: 1959
Genre: Jazz, Pop, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Pacific, Easy Listening, Exotica
Tracklist:
- Kapu (Forbidden)
- Koko Head
- Leahi (Diamond Head)
- Maika
- Moon Festival
- Mileka
- Iolani (Bird Of Heaven)
- Lehua
- Lanikai (Heavenly Sea)
- Telani (Evening Star)
Notes:
Released in 1959, Kapu (Forbidden) by Milt Raskin is a mesmerizing journey into the world of exotica music, blending lush orchestration with evocative melodies. This album, released under Crown Records, is a standout in the mid-century exotica movement, which sought to transport listeners to imagined tropical paradises. Raskin, a skilled pianist and arranger, crafted a collection of tracks that evoke mystery, romance, and the allure of the Hawaiian Islands.
The album features a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of traditional themes, with tracks like “Koko Head,” “Leahi (Diamond Head),” and “Moon Festival” showcasing Raskin’s ability to create vivid musical landscapes. The use of instruments such as the celesta, harp, and exotic percussion adds depth and texture to the arrangements, while the inclusion of the theremin lends an otherworldly quality to the music. Each track is a carefully crafted piece that immerses listeners in a dreamlike atmosphere.
Kapu (Forbidden) is also notable for its production quality and visual presentation. Released on red vinyl, the album’s striking cover art complements its themes of enchantment and exploration. The meticulous attention to detail in both the music and packaging made this record a collector’s item for fans of exotica and lounge music. Raskin’s ability to blend traditional Hawaiian influences with modern orchestral elements is evident throughout the album.
Over the years, Kapu (Forbidden) has gained a cult following among enthusiasts of exotica and vintage music. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to an imagined world of tropical splendor and intrigue, making it a quintessential example of the escapist music that defined the era. Milt Raskin’s work on this album remains a testament to his artistry and the enduring allure of exotica.
