Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Instrumental Collection

CD Details

Hawaiian slack key guitar emerged in the 1830s when Spanish and Mexican cowboys brought guitars to the Big Island’s cattle ranches, developing into a recognizable style by the turn of the century. The technique involves loosening certain strings from standard tuning to create open tunings, with the thumb laying down bass lines while other fingers handle melody and improvisation. This 1996 compilation brings together multiple masters of the form, from the delicate approach of Moses Kahumoku and Leonard Kwan to the bluesy sensibility of George Keo and Ray Kane to the more contemporary pop-influenced sound of Keola Beamer, showcasing why slack key has evolved from a traditional accompaniment into a compelling solo instrument.

Released on Sony Legacy, this all-instrumental CD contains ten tracks spanning nearly 45 minutes, including pieces like Pānini Pua Kea, Ku’u Kīkā Kahiko (My Old Guitar), Moe ‘Uhane (Dream Slack Key), and the Waikiki Hula Medley. Owning this used copy lets you explore a foundational Hawaiian musical tradition at a fraction of retail cost.