A Voice for All Seasons: Wayne Harada Reviews "My Continuum"
I've been fortunate in my career to have my music reviewed by many talented writers, but it's especially meaningful to hear from those who were there from the beginning. Wayne Harada is a respected critic who reviewed my concerts and albums back in the 80s, and his perspective on my new music is a true honor.
I was blown away by his thoughtful and generous review of my new EP, My Continuum, which he published on his official website. With his permission, I wanted to share it with you here.
KEVIN I.: LOVE VOICE FOR ALL SEASONS
By Wayne Harada
The arrival this week of “My Continuum,” a five-tune EP chockful of romantic ballads, reintroduces veteran singer Kevin I. to the world (and maybe Hawaii, too).
It probably should have been released to coincide with Valentine’s, because it’s the traditional season for love songs. Feb. 14, after all, is when the world focuses on romance, and surely, Kevin’s new CD, will lure his international audience. FYI, Feb. 14 happens to be Kevin’s birthday. The availability prior to Halloween means listening treats, not tricks. And with Christmas in December approaching, it’s not a bad idea to get the EP charted for holiday gift-buying. Hmmm, so “My Continuum” should be a collection for all seasons, all-year round.
Let me tell you the whys: Kevin had been one of Honolulu’s favored balladeers during the ‘70s through ‘90s; he sang solo, in hotel club shows, as well as with a dance group as a featured singer. His recordings were heard on local radio, too. Then he abandoned his entertainment career for the next forty years, becoming an esteemed pioneer of executive and business travel, as a speaker and an author of business travel, marketing and events.
As fate would have it, Kevin retired from his biz endeavors and focused on sharing his vintage tunes with followers across the globe – the Spotify crowd – triggering a second career minus the live concerts but a new EP laden with what his global fans favored: love tunes.
Under guidance from new mentor-producer Lance Jyo, Kevin clearly curated a roster of new material: two that he co-wrote with Jyo, and three others that Jyo co-authored. All songs should attract his legion of fans, and I confess, if these tunes were on a roulette spin, all will would have winning appeal.
I adore ballads, so “The Love You Give (To Me)” reflects the kind of powerful gift for a crooner – deliberate, enduring, satisfying delivery, plus soothing lyrics. The song is constructed with cadence and care, perfect for Kevin’s style.
“Shine” features multi-tracking of voices, sounding like a chorus without overdoing it. However, the 5:08 length – long, by radio standards – might limit air time. “My Forever Love” – also with the spirit of commitment — is yet another resourceful introduction to those who’ve yet to know Kevin’s engaging style. Could become the biggie of the bunch. “Can’t Get Back the Time” lyrically explores the value of embracing time in life, since it is elusive and disappears, with gentle piano accompaniment. “The Last Goodbye” is a sweet departure ballad, exploring another element of romance.
Finally, for all the years I’ve known Kevin and reviewed him in concerts and on LPs and CDs, he’s never sounded this contagious perfection and glowing with amour and assurance. “The Continuum” could jumpstart an appearance on one stage or two, notably in foreign markets waiting to discover Kevin I. in the flesh. P.S: He’d welcome earning more Polaris bookings for his United treks around the world.
Think about it…
And that’s Show Biz…Originally published on wayneharada.com
I am truly humbled by Wayne's words. Thank you.
For those who want to hear the music he’s talking about, you can find my new EP on the official Music Page.