Reggae Soul (Neos, 2003)

Though he has a name that you probably don't know, Butch Helemano, like Typical Hawaiians, is a favorite on the Hawaiian reggae scene.  And, like Typical Hawaiians, he sticks largely to a traditional roots and lovers rock sound, forgoing much of the hip-hop and R&B stylings that many other "Jahwaiian" artists favor.  While Helemano seems to have a large, imposing presence, his vocals are feathery and sweet, and his material is comprised largely of love songs in a lovers rock rhythm -- typified by the placid trio of tunes "Once Bitten," "You're the Only One," and "Your Love," which will quickly set the mood as well as any Barry White joint.  For roots fans, he shows off a harder sound on tracks like "Ride da Riddom," "Roots and Culture," and the fantastic storytelling track "One Jungle Night."  Charismatic and soulful, Butch Helemano's Reggae Soul may not be in your local music store, but it might be worth the effort to search it out if you're interested in the Pacific Island reggae sound.