Ei Nei "Koali"

Hui! Ei Nei
Koali - Track #9
Koali - Ahupua‘a in East Maui. It is said that a group of lauhala weavers composed this mele of over 20 verses speaking of place and people. One subject in particular was an attractive ‘iwa bird who nested in an unattractive hala tree. Unfortunately, the original book was destroyed by house fire and those close to the composers have passed down these remaining verses. Traditionally known in Hana as a "party song" today we extend the same invitation e nanea mai a le‘ale‘a mai, for you will never find a more fragrant lipoa.
What started as a playful experiment quickly became one of our favorites. It wasn't part of the original plan but sometimes things just happen.
Mahalo to nā kumu Ke‘ano Ka‘upu and Lono Padilla and the ladies of Hālau Hi‘iakaināmakalehua.
Videos: Recorded at home during Quarantine 2020
Video Edit: Jana Kaopuiki