Post #196681 by professahhummingflowah on Sun, Nov 6, 2005 10:42 AM

Yo -

Yeah, James is a great player and really just a very down-to-earth guy. So far we've only been able to hang when we're both down in Honolulu. First time I met him, I took him to lunch at Kaka'ako Kitchen (yum) and he told me about a jam session he did with Byron Yasui and Benny Chong. Then I went to go see him do two solo sets at the KHPR-FM studio ... man, that guy can really captivate an audience. For one thing (as almost all touring uke players must do), he makes all of his own arrangements -- but his approach and sound is very different, you can hear his formal training as a violist/classical string player right off the bat. Secondly, he chooses tunes that are familiar to a wide range of audiences; not being a jazz player, he doesn't choose a ton of jazz standards, but he also doesn't water tunes down just because it's being done on ukulele. We haven't had the chance to jam yet, but hopefully it's not too far away. Last time we wen talk story over pancakes (also yum)!

In my mind (and humble opinion), James is on a very short list of young musician-entrepreneurs that really bring something different to the table.

For sure, you all should see him perform if he comes to your city. And tell him I said hello!!

-Randy