Search - Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwo'ole :: IZ in Concert: The Man and His Music

Best Music On The Planet

D. Webster | Falmouth, Maine | 10/26/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In the beginning of the movie Contact, our planet earth is shown wildly spinning through space, expelling out transmissions of television and radio. The feeling is that we are representing ourselves to possible listeners from beyond. It's a fascinating thought, and more than a little embarrassing if you think about it.



This live cd by Bruddah Iz is something very special. It's something that would make me proud to broadcast into space, traveling until it's received and pondered by an intelligent lifeform. It's powerful, beautiful music, presented by a kind-hearted man. This is absolutely how I would like our planet to be represented. Perhaps this is why I frequently listen to Iz after I've overdosed on the complexities and harshness of living, or the bad vibes seen on the news.



Someone below stated that there is too much talking, and not enough music. I don't get it. I have everything that Iz ever created, including cds, dvds and videos, and treasure every single one. The fact that he does talk is what is special here. Iz is a generous window into an indigenous culture, and he shares this like no other. But, the cd is mostly about the music, and I never gained a sense that this is chatty or unmusical. I love hearing him talk, especially since he has moved on and the talking has stopped. At the end of Alone In IZ World there is a secret track, where he is talking about having trouble breathing, shortly before he moved on. This is powerful, and very moving.



Facing Future is a great place to start, and this cd is a great second ... or perhaps E Ala E. But, I've nearly worn this one out. Iz was musical down to his bones, but more than that his music is healing and represents the highest nature of us."

Fantastic

b.a. | USA | 10/25/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this for my 81 year old mother, we both LOVED this CD. I never bought any Hawaiian music before. I knew nothing about IZ and was heart-broken to discover he had passed from this world. Great audio clarity for a concert. Gorgeous voice. Wonderful selection of songs. If you're listening to music of this genre for the first time, I can't image a better CD exists."

The most beautiful voice in Hawai'ian music - Maika'i !!

b.a. | 10/16/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Recorded live at concerts on the Continent and in Hawai'i, this is a collection of favorites. Israel's voice is as perfect as in any studio recording and the presence of the audience spurs him on to greater heights (and some mediocre jokes). The included song introductions and Iz's monologues on "Hawai'ian-ness" and sovereignty are invaluable insights into his heart, much like Bob Marley's "Talkin' Blues". The powerful "E Ala E" and "Hawai'i '78" and Iz's risque version of the classic "Henehene Kou Aka" are his best ever. You'll never find a better live album. Party, Cuz!"