www.myspace.com/kawikaalfiche or www.kawikaalfiche.com for updated concert info "Nalei" is a beautiful collection of original Hawaiian music arranged and composed by Kawika Keikiali'i Alfiche. Featured on this 14-track compilation are "E Pa Mai Ka Makani"("Gentle Breezes Blow My Way") and "Hokulani" ("Starlit Heavens") which are expected to hit the airwaves this year in Hawai'i and on the mainland. Characteristic of traditional Hawaiian style instrumentation, "Nalei" revisits the breadth of the ukulele, ipu heke (gourd drum), `ili`ili (river stones), Pahu (shark skin drum), and Kiho`alu (slack key guitar). In addition to the Kawika's are (Bassist) Steve Espaniola; (Guest Vocalists) Jiana Alfiche and Kalei Alonzo; (Keyboardist) Mit Kamana`o Maurille; (Tahitian Banjoist) Kale Ancheta; and Halau chants by Halau o Keikiali'i. A portion of the proceeds from this showcase benefits The Aloha Pumehana 'O Polynesia (APOP) Cultural Center www.apop.net/www.keikialii.com "Nalei" is not only the bringing together of beautiful harmonies but it's also about ohana (family). Entitled "Nalei" in honor of Kawika's late Uncle Roy Nalei Castro, the contemplative sounds of mele (music) and oli (chants) resonate with the theme of the CD: "Embracing our past...guides our tomorrow" which expresses the idea of preservation, perpetuation and commemoration of the kupuna (ancestors). Kawika Keikiali'i Alfiche has been teaching hula to youth and adults of all ages and educating the general public about Hawaiian culture for more than 10 years. Kawika has been a long-time advocate of the Hawaiian culture and is the Kumu (teacher) for Halau Hula (dance group), Halau 'o Keikiali'I (http://www.keikialii.com), and Director for the Aloha Pumehana O Polynesian (APOP) Hawaiian Cultural Center (www.apop.net). With these organizations, Kawika is able to bring to the mainland, the essence of past and present communities of the Hawaiian people, the traditional customs, values and protocols. "Nalei" continues the traditional sounds of Hawaiian music that we have all know and love. It is within the stories told in the mele (music) that have been passed down for generations, with its morals and values, that people can truly be enriched in their personal lives. Everyone can benefit from the lessons taught and the music of Kawika Keikiali'I Alfiche hopes to reach people far and wide, touching people who may not be exposed to the Hawaiian culture and share with them the spirit of aloha. Hawaiian dance and music are inextricably linked to the land. The ancient chants and movements passed from one generation to another reflect and evoke diverse aspects of the lush terrain and rich surrounding nature of the islands. They also honor significant deities, leaders and ancestral places that are a vital part of Hawaii's history. The text of the songs often have an additional layered meaning, which is believed to be a code of conduct to guide generations to understand cultural etiquette. "Nalei" is a reminder of all of these things. Like a lei, many experiences and emotions are strung together to make a life filled with beauty, delight, sorrow, and love. Like a lei, woven together are the many and diverse occasions that have brought fulfillment to the soul. Like a lei, we are all joined together in some manner or form. All of these are brought together to create a complete life indeed. Kawika Keikiali'i Alfiche is sharing his life with us. He is sharing the people in his life, he is sharing the places in his life, and for a brief moment he is sharing who he is. Kawika has chosen to make nä mea Hawai'i his life. It is with him every waking moment and also in his dreams. These dreams are becoming a reality and how lucky we are. So come, listen to "Nalei", remember the good times, the sad times, the happy times...all of those special times. Come and be reminded of all the special people in our lives. Come...find a comfortable cushion, bring your favorite püpü, bring a special friend, and listen to "Nalei".