Label: Liberty – LRP-3488
Released: 1967
Genre: Jazz, Pop, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Exotica, Easy Listening, Pacific
Tracklist:
- Hawaii (Main Title)
- Lahaina Luna
- The Wishing Doll
- I’ll Remember You
- Jerusha’s Theme
- Tiny Bubbles (Hua Li’l)
- Here Is Happiness (Koko Ni Sachiari)
- Hawaiian Rhapsody
- Oro (God Of Vengeance)
- Return To Paradise
- Manuela Boy
- Sukiyaki
Notes:
Martin Denny’s 1967 album “Hawaii” is a captivating collection of easy listening and exotica music that transports listeners to the tropical islands. Released by Liberty Records, the album features a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs and original compositions, all performed with a lush, orchestral arrangement. Tracks like “Hawaii (Main Title),” “Lahaina Luna,” and “I’ll Remember You” showcase Denny’s ability to evoke the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Hawaii through his music.
The album was produced by Joe Saraceno and featured arrangements by Harold V. Johnson and Julius Wechter, who brought a sophisticated and polished sound to the recordings. Martin Denny, known for his smooth and melodic style, created a captivating listening experience with this album. The album’s cover art, designed by Woody Woodward, 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. Denny’s rendition of classics like “Tiny Bubbles” and “Return to Paradise” brought a fresh perspective to these beloved songs, making them accessible to a new generation of listeners. The album’s success helped solidify Denny’s place in the world of easy listening music and contributed to the enduring popularity of Hawaiian-themed albums.
The “Hawaii” 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 Martin Denny’s talent and the enduring allure of Hawaiian music.
