Keep It Together (Cinnamon Red, 2002)

Typical Hawaiians are one of the more acclaimed performers of the uniquely Pacific Island "Jahwaiian" style of reggae music, and listening to their sophomore album, Keep It Together, it's easy to see why.  Smooth, fluid vocals, captivating melodies, and a genuine commitment to the reggae sound makes this album a winner.  Like most of the admittedly limited range of Jahwaiian music I've heard, the tone on Keep It Together is decidedly upbeat.  This is fun, light music; you could throw this album on, and every track could keep the party moving.  However, unlike much of the Jahwaiian music I've heard, there is little of the American hip-hop/dance/R&B influence to be found here.  While some people might like this hybrid sound, I've found it often detracts from my enjoyment of the reggae core.  On Keep It Together, while there is a bit of a pop vibe, only the title track veers noticeably away from the reggae sound, into a funk mode.  Highlights include "Strange Love," featuring O-Shen, the pleading lovers track "Don't Cry," the forceful roots of "Stand Firm," and the digital "One Thing," which features one of the more energizing, infectious choruses I've heard in a while.  Typical Hawaiians, who write, produce, sing, and play the music on this album, show here that they're anything but "typical."