Get ready for modern jazz originals that will excite your senses on ‘Hō’ihi’ by Noel Okimoto. Noel incorporates a wide variety of styles & tempos on this new release making for one invigorating listen. The new album is due out January 1, 2025, so get ready for jazz that will knock your socks off! With 12 inventive and innovative tracks, ‘Hō’ihi’ will delight audiences worldwide!
‘Hō’ihi’ is a Hawaiian word that means to treat with reverence and respect and Noel Okimoto certainly has the utmost respect for this longstanding artform we know as jazz. Noel honors those who came before him in the genre of jazz and even includes tributes to Gene Baltazar & Wayne Shorter on this record. The album features Noel Okimoto on drums, percussion & melodica, Dean Taba on electric and acoustic bass, Tommy James on piano, organ & electric piano, Abe Lagrimas Jr. on vibraphone & ukulele, Haru Takauchi on electric and acoustic guitar, DeShannon Higa on trumpet and flugelhorn and Michael Grande on electric piano (on “Opuscule”). Noel Okimoto and his musical accompaniment will excite listeners everywhere with 12, well-constructed and distinctive compositions on ‘Hō’ihi’.
The album kicks off with “Cachorra” that offers an infectious beat and melody. Noel Okimoto is inviting you into a wonderful world on “Cachorra” where excellent instrumentation and musical direction can be heard. A sensational groove sails through your ear canals on “Up Syndrome” as Noel and the band deliver a cool ‘n’ classy performance. Track three, “Braying”, provides a silky-smooth rhythm that will instantly hook you in from the start. It’s time to embrace the following number in all its “Karing Karing” glory as Noel is standing tall on this one. “Patina Ballerina” is a glorious mix that will be dancing its way into your ears. With style & grace, “Patina Ballerina” will have listeners tapping his or her toes throughout the song. Noel will sooth all of your senses on “Lethologica” with strong playing overall and a rock-solid performance. Next, “Longest Day” never sounded so good as I sense something in the air. With an incredibly upbeat vibe, “Longest Day” will please listeners everywhere. A calming breeze rushes past you on “Wayne-ing Days” that is easy on the ears and will put your mind at ease. Flavorful notes & a peppy beat hits you on “Cachorro” making for one fantastic experience. Track 10, “Nine and a Half”, pulls you in with its catchy appeal and bright tones & textures. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good, fun-filled time, then “Under The Bottom” is your ticket! Noel ends on a pleasant note with “Opuscule For Rowan” that makes for one positive experience for ALL.
Besides being an accomplished drummer/percussionist, Noel Okimoto is also a vibraphonist, composer and clinician. Noel not only carries on the tradition of timeless jazz but also makes his state of Hawaii proud with ‘Hō’ihi’. The Hawaiian jazz scene is heating up thanks to the likes of Noel Okimoto treating the music like a respected General. ‘Hō’ihi’ is modern jazz at its finest and Noel Okimoto has just the right beat!
https://www.hiyouthsymphony.org/instructor/noel-okimoto/
https://www.instagram.com/noel_okimoto/
By Jimmy Rae
