“This debut release represents a labor of love.  
The kind and patient people who taught me firmly 
established the feeling and joy shared within these 
songs.  I dedicate this recording to my sister Sue 
and brother John who passed away before its 
completion.  When negative clouds try to fill my mind, memories of their encouragement pierce the darkness.  

Each song is like a beam of light, a memory to hold dear, to rekindle their warmth again.”

 - Ray Sowders

From a dancer's perspective, this CD has a large number of hulas that are very "dance-able."  The liner notes are quite thorough in listing the composer(s) and musicians as well as very clearly compiled translations.  Ray has provided some very nice background to each piece. 

Dancers across Hawaii,  the mainland and Canada have recently discovered the high quality and inspirational music of this exceptional collection.

The overall "look and feel" of the CD and it's packaging illustrate the Kukuna Mehana - "Warming Rays of the Sun'" through the hearts and souls of these very talented and special musicians.

- Mapuana

Executive Producer:  Ray Sowders

Producers:  Joe Fisher, Marty Bolin

Photography:  Ray Sowders

Engineers: Ray Sowders, Joe Fisher, Marty Bolin

Recorded at: Kï Höÿalu Dreams Studio, Makakilo, HI

Strings Recorded at:  “The Rainforest Room” Audio Resource Honolulu

String arrangements:  Ryo Miyamoto

Ozzie Kotani appears courtesy of Dancing Cat Records

B.B. Shawn and Bobby Ingano appear courtesy of Flying Solo Records

Mixed by:  Marty Bolin at “The Rainforest Room” Audio Resource Honolulu

Graphic Design & Layout:  Brian Scot Siart

Language Consultant:  Puakea Nogelmeier

Music Research:  Cindy Lance

Ala Moana Center Stage 

International Market Place 

Windward Mall 

Borders Books Ward Centre 

Borders Books Waikele 

Kapiolani Bandstand

KHON TV morning show

Now appearing often at Chili's, 

Kahala Mall

Click here for photos of some recent performances....