Better known among his fans as "Iz," Israel Kamakawiwo'ole was a phenomenon in the Hawai'ian Islands totally below Mainland radar. So important was Iz's singing to Native Hawa'ians and Hawai'i residents alike that Governor Ben Cayetano declared a statewide day of mourning when Iz passed away in 1997--this despite his controversial Hawai'i-sovereignty politics. Ka Ano'i was the 1991 winner of the prestigious Na Hoku Hanohano Award for best contemporary Hawai'ian album, and Iz himself won for best male vocalist that year. This album is appealing mainly for its honesty and simplicity: simplicity of tone consistent with the casual ukulele and slack-key sound, and honesty of voice through Hawai'i-enhanced allegorical tracks like "Coney Island Washer Woman" and "I'll Be There." A later version of Iz's "Over the Rainbow" was featured in the 1998 film Meet Joe Black, as well. Despite his imposing stature, Iz was an embodiment of the simplicity and gentleness in the music itself, more noticeable in this early album than in his later work. --Erik Macki

Customer Rating:
Summary: Wonderful singer lost too soon.
Comment: Having lived in Hawaii and loving the music of the islands, this singer is so Hawaiian and such a sweet voice. I am so sorry he is lost for more wonderful music.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Wish I was on the iland
Comment: Heard a song on the radio and had to have the CD. Did a search on Amazon, of course they had it, and placed the order. Before I knew it, it was in my mailbox and the CD was wonderful the hear. It made me want to go to the islands.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: MS
Comment: It was the most relaxing cd I have ever listen to, even tho you dont understand the word you can feel what they are saying

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Customer Rating:
Summary: okay
Comment: It was okay but not as good as his other cd's that i own

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Breathtakingly beautiful
Comment: On a trip to Hawaii many years ago we were introduced to the wonderful music of IZ. What an incredible man, and voice. I have two of Iz's CD's and one DVD and they are all wonderful. When the Washington rain gets to me in the winter, I put in IZ and turn the heater up and dream I'm in Hawaii. Mahalo

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