Hawaii’s Alternative Star 101.9 along with BAMP Project presented the first annual; “Mele Kalikirocka”. Local singer/songwriter Jenny Yim, Flora Cash, and lovelytheband, entertained a festive holiday audience at The Republik in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Jenny Yim opened up at approximately 8 P.M. Yim, who is only sixteen, played a great solo set switching between acoustic guitar and keyboards. Songs such as Over and Over and Cold December displayed her immense talent. Currently Yim is recording her debut album with producer Ryan Hadlock. In the past Hadlock has produced Grammy nominated albums by the Lumineers and Brandi Carlile. We are certain to see more of Lim as her career matures.
Game / Over and Over / Lifeline / Let Me Down / Take It Easy / Fighter / Cold December
After a quick set break the Swedish-American indie pop duo Flora Cash took the stage. The husband and wife duo of Cole Randall and Shpresa Lleshaj are currently riding high on their single “You’re Somebody Else” which at the time was number five on Billboard’s Alternative Songs Chart. Equipped with a laptop, a guitar, and two microphones the dream pop duo began their eleven song set with “Roses On Your Dress.” The couples hypnotic crooning and sparse instrumentation are reminiscent of Lana Del Ray or Hope Sandoval of Mazzy Star. The duo created a spacious atmosphere highlighting the musical connection of the couple. Recently signed to RCA the duo played some unreleased material and ended the set with their single “You’re Somebody Else.”
Roses On Your Dress / The Bad Boys / Nightmare / 9 To 9 / Sadness Is Taking Over / They Own This Town / For Someone / Pharaoh / 19 Dollars / California / You’re Somebody Else
Next up was the headliner lovelytheband from Los Angeles, California. The pop trio of Mitchy Collins (vocals and guitar), Jordan Greenwald (guitar), and Sam Price (drums) released their debut album Finding It Hard To Smile this past August.
With high spirits the band opened up their forty minute set with “Making You Feel Pretty” followed by the very danceable “Pity Party.” A little over halfway through their set, following the free spirited “Coachella,” the band surprised fans with a very danceable cover of Ginuwine’s “Pony”. This was the last gig of the year and it was obvious they were enjoying their time on a tropical island in the middle of the Pacific. The band introduced their crew and even their official photographer to the audience. After ending their set with “Friends” the band returned to the stage for an encore. Before driving into “Broken” Collins spoke to the crowd about anxiety, addiction and depression. He let fans know that they were not alone, to be with people you love and who love you, and if you need help, do not be afraid to ask.
As the lights brightened and the band left the stage I could only hope that this “annual” event returns next year with another three performances of up and coming bands. Each performer will be touring extensively in the New Year. Don’t miss them!
Make You Feel Pretty / Pity Party / Stupid Mistakes / I Like The Way / Alone Time / Coachella / Pony / Don’t Worry, You Will / Walk From Here / Maybe, I’m Afraid / Friends / Broken