Since 2002, the ukulele virtuoso has produced an album a year. But 2007 brings double the fun as he comes out with the six-song EP In My Life and the soundtrack to the 2006 Japanese hit film, “Hula Girls.”
In My LifeIn My Life is a collection of ukulele covers of some of Shimabukuro's favorites songs. Among the artists featured include The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Cyndi Lauper. His mellow arrangements produce an aurally pleasing compilation of these familiar classics.
The album opens with Shimabukuro's take on Lauper's “Time After Time.” His crystal-clear ukulele plucks are accompanied by bongos, which create a laid-back island sound. Jake's younger brother Bruce provides gentle guitar strums in the background.
“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” features a solo performance by Shimabukuro. He alternates between soft, lucid plucks and heavy, rich strums to give the Judy Garland piece a lounge-esque quality.
The best song on the album is his cover of Sarah McLachlin's “Ice Cream.” Simplicity is the key as Shimabukuro plays without a band, producing a rich sound entirely from his four-octive instrument. His slow strums add depth as each string resonates.
Clocking in a just a little more than 22 minutes, In My Life provides a taste of Shimabukuro's skills. Its sweet and tranquil sounds are pleasant to listen to, but as soon it pulls one in, the music is over, leaving an unsatisfied aural palate craving more.
Hula GirlsHonolulu-native Jake Shimabukuro predominantly featured on the soundtrack to an award-winning film set in Hawaii? Makes sense.
The “Hula Girls” soundtrack sounds more like a “best of” compilation for Shimabukuro. Those familiar with the talented musician's past works will recognize tracks such as “Heartbeat,” “Walking Down Rainhill” and “Touch.” While the album carries sweet, carefree melodies, it fails to showcase the lightning-quick ukulele rips that are associated with the artist.
“Hula Girl” is a mellow tune that highlights Jennifer Perri's bright, rich voice as Shimabukuro's lucid plucks play harmony. Soft guitar strikes and sparsely placed bass hits are subdued to emphasis the vocals.
The movie version of “Heartbeat” is a piano arrangement of the Shimabukuro's piece from Walking Down Rainhill. The sustained notes echo, creating a heavy, haunting sound that resonates. It's a stark difference from the next track, “Heartbeat (reprise),” which carries a fluffier sound, focusing on Shimabukuro's ukulele play and a guitar that fills the background.
“Hawaiian Eyes” is one of the two songs not featuring Shimabukuro – both are by the all-female Hawaiian group, Na Leo. Warm guitar strums and shakers open the song as the vocals enter. The three women create intricate harmonies during the chorus, while layering the melody over harmonic backgrounds during the bridge.
Shimabukuro's signature sound is tuned down in the “Hula Girls” soundtrack. While it's an album that's worth adding to one's collection, it lacks the innovation that have been typical of the ukulele virtuoso's work.
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