Master drummer Jon Tikivanotau Jonassen presents an exhilarating array of drum beats that are based on the unique traditional drum sounds of the Cook Islands. His orchestration reminds us of the rich Cook Islands Maori drumming tradition that has in recent years, been exposed as the secret source of inspiration for Tahiti, Samoa and Tokelau dance and musical groups.

 A 22-page booklet includes drum notations developed by Jonassen in the 60s. Lyrics and translations offer dancers and performers a deeper understanding of how the drum beat and chant music ought to be interpreted into dance form. This exceptional collection presents the original and complete dance routine beats for ten songs; each echoing a Cook Islands traditional story. A must have recording of Cook Islands culture!

Album Tracks:

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1. Tiavaru
2. Tamatoa
3. Eitiare No Melina
4. Tautai Moana
5. Aitu
6. Turama Po
7. Ei Mua Ei Muri
8. Akaepaepa
9. Tiki Patana
10. Ura Takapuni
    
    

In response to numerous requests for traditional and contemporary Polynesian drum music, we present "Drumbeats of the Pacific, Vol. 2: Songs & Dances of the Islands." Our goal in putting together this project was twofold: to provide visitors to the Islands with musical memories of their stay, and to offer students of music and dance these dance beats representative of the cultures of Rarotonga, Aitutaki Atoll, Pukapuka, Atiu, Manihiki, Mangaia - the Cook Islands, Tahiti, Samoa, Tokelau, and the islands of Wallis and Futuna. ((P)) The package includes an introduction by master drummer Dr. Jon Jonassen as well as brief notes regarding each drum piece.

Album Tracks:

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1. Rutu Taki:  Samba
2. Drummer's Symphony
3. Rutu Taki:  Ei Roto
4. Takoto
5. Puara-Ta
6. Ani
7. Atiu Enua
8. Paea
9. Borabora
10. Pahe
11. Borabora (Take 2)
12. Mati
    
    

In response to numerous requests for another album of traditional and contemporary Polynesian drum music, Hula Records International is pleased to present volume 3 of "Drum Beats Of The Pacific: Songs and Dances of the Islands."

Our goal in compiling these rhythms was twofold: to provide visitors with musical memories of their stay in the Islands, and to offer students of music and dance these dance beats representative of the cultures of Rorotonga, Aitutaki, Pukapuka, Mangaia - the Cook Islands, and Tahiti. This time, in addition to introductory notes by master drummer Dr. Jon Jonassen, we have included carefully annotated instructions to replicate the drum sequences, making it an invaluable tool for dance groups or for those who just want to try their hand and Pacific Island drumming.

Album Tracks:

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1. Tavanui E
2. Pa'ea/Rutu Taki/Kakaia
3. Ta'ae O Tangaroa/Takoto
4. Te Ulu Ote Watu
5. Aitutaki/Pukapuka
6. Atavaivalo/Orama
7. Kia Orana
8. Rutu Taki Ei Roto
9. Amuri/Mokora
10. Akauka Ra
11. Mutiny
12. Rutu Taki Ei Roto
13. Pa'ea A'aki Anani
14. Ura Pi'a
    
    

The vocal ensemble Manoa Voices are the winners of the 2007 Ka Himeni Ana acoustic traditional Hawaiian vocal competition.  Its members are all University of Hawai‘i - Manoa student/musician/singers. Led by their teacher, Chadwick Pang, Mamina Koga, Rosanna Perch, Sophronia Smith and Justin Ka‘upu explore Hawaiian and Oceanic music. Former Royal Hawaiian Bandmaster, Aaron Mahi, says "The music of Manoa Voices reaches back to when the simplicity of the accompaniment was served in gentle portions, allowing the voices the liberty to delight and allure the listener on this aural voyage..."  If you're looking for a group that "captures the energy of Hawai‘i's youthful present by simultaneously bearing both mind and heart from its past – when Hawai‘i stood at the threshold of swing and rich harmonies – then look no further.  Eia ka mea waiwai no ‘ia (The value is here, right here)."

Album Tracks:

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1. E Nani E
2. Palisa
3. Pua Mae'ole
4. Beneath the Maori Moon
5. E Koa'e E
6. U'ilani
7. Te Atairangikaahu
8. Ka Ua Loku
9. Manu 'O'o
10. Manoa Te Manu
11. Aloha No
12. Ho'onani Ka Makua Mau (The Doxology)