Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Hawaiian
Year: 1965
Tracklist:
- The Beauty Hula
- O Kalena Kai
- Hoe Hoe
- Kalamaula
- Sea And Sand
- Goodbye Honolulu
- Medley: Dance The Hula In The Moonlight; Dancing Under
- The Stars
- Tahitian Dance
- Palolo
- When Hilo Hattie Does The Hilo Hop
- The Cockeyed Mayor Of Kaunakakai
- Holo Holo Kaa
- Kilakila O Haleakala
- Hawaiian War Chant
Notes:
The 1965 album “Hilo Hattie At The Tapa Room” by Hilo Hattie With The Hawaiian Village Serenaders and Lani And The Hilton Hula Maids is a delightful collection of Hawaiian-themed music that captures the vibrant culture of the islands. Released by RCA Victor, the album features a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs and original compositions, all performed with a lively, orchestral arrangement. Tracks like “The Beauty Hula,” “O Kalena Kai,” and “Hoe Hoe” showcase the band’s ability to evoke the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Hawaii through their music.
The album was produced by Herman Diaz Jr. and featured arrangements by Benny Kalama, who brought a sophisticated and polished sound to the recordings. Hilo Hattie, known for her smooth and melodic singing style, created a captivating listening experience with this album. The album’s cover art, designed by RCA Victor, adds to the allure with its depiction of a romantic Hawaiian landscape.
Critics praised the album for its sophisticated arrangements and the skillful blending of traditional Hawaiian elements with modern orchestral sounds. Hilo Hattie’s rendition of classics like “Good-Bye Honolulu,” “Tahitian Dance,” and “Hawaiian War Chant” brought a fresh perspective to these beloved songs, making them accessible to a new generation of listeners. The album’s success helped solidify Hilo Hattie’s place in the world of easy listening music and contributed to the enduring popularity of Hawaiian-themed albums.
The “Hilo Hattie At The Tapa Room” album remains a cherished piece of musical history, celebrated for its ability to transport listeners to a tropical paradise. Its timeless appeal continues to attract new fans, and its influence can be heard in the works of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the exotica genre. The album’s legacy is a testament to Hilo Hattie’s talent and the enduring allure of Hawaiian music.
