MACC Scene by Karee Carlucci

Hapa is the name that comes to the mind of many people when they think of modern Hawaiian music. Formerly of Lahaina, Founder Barry Flanagan’s music is a cultural melting pot mix of influences, ranging from ancient Hawaiian chants to the ballads of Portuguese fisherman and Spanish cowboys. Add to this stew inspired melodies and harmonies of traditional church choirs of the early missionaries and a healthy dose of American folk-rock arrangements and you get a pretty good picture of Hapa’s sound.

Hapa’s benchmark initial release swept all six categories it was nominated for at the 1994 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards by the Hawaiian Academy of Recording Arts. Produced, composed and arranged by Barry, “HAPA” to this day remains in the top lists on Hawaiian and World music charts. The record’s groundbreaking sales have established it as the number one selling recording by a group or duo in the history of recorded Hawaiian music. 

Although Hapa’s lead singer changed from Keli‘i Kaneali‘i to Nathan Aweau some five years ago, the duo’s captivating sound has remained unchanged. Today, Barry Flanagan and Nathan Aweau are accompanied on stage by Hawaiian chanter and cultural specialist, Charles Ka‘upu. One of the best examples of the power of these three artists is Hapa’s rendition of the U2 classic, “Pride (In The Name of Love)” – it will give you chicken skin.

Hapa returns to the Castle Theater stage on Saturday, April 17. Barry and Nathan will perform selections from their latest record, which is not yet in the stores, “It’s A Slack Key World.” You can be sure the show will resound with songs that go straight to your heart and soothe the soul. Enjoy preshow dining from 5 pm by Aloha Events Catering. Tickets are on sale for $12, $28 and $37 adults; $14 and $18.50 for keiki aged 12 years and younger. Call the Box Office at 808-242-SHOW or visit MauiArts. org.