Brittni Paiva’s Latest CD Evokes Fresh New Memories

When I attempt to seriously criticize a new musical offering, as is my want from time to time — though I am by no means a serious critic — I usually put on the disc and let it play several times before I write. I want to hear and write simultaneously. I want to get it right.

Right now, I am listening to Brittni Paiva’s latest release, “Brittni,” her third CD. Each new disc offers a different perspective on her multi-talented musical character.

Though only 18 years of age, stylistically her music reflects a bygone time, a little Latin here, a little Euro there, and yet is performed with modern precision and feeling – and still not a note out of place.

There were times I thought I could hear Duane Allman, John Williams or George Benson. Brittni is as smooth as any session musician anwhere.
Her technique is flawless, almost eerily so. Her arraignments are tightly constructed, easy listening pieces that capture her Big Island roots and her respect and appreciation for all cultures, and further demonstrates her understanding of what it takes to pull off a serious, professional, commercially acceptable work.

Her emotion-laden approach to contemporary songs and classics alike suggests to her listeners the warm, teasing intimacy of a small jazz club, its smoky after-hours air heavy with romantic promise, but in a squeaky clean way.

By all standards, Ms. Paiva is a gifted artist and will be a major player in Hawaii music for decades to come. Her presence and potential also imply a great future beyond the islands, perhaps as one of two great modern young ukulele (and guitar) masters.

The first three pieces in “Brittni” set the tone for the rest of the album. Being a girlie man, I was moved to tears by her rendition of Johann Pachelbel’s “Canon in D Major,” a late 17th century baroque basso continuo popularized when used as the main theme in Robert Redford’s 1980 social drama “Ordinary People.”

“Canon in D Major” begins with a plaintive, almost sorrowful — yet somehow playful — melody that Brittni simply nails, hands-down, using the her ukulele finger picking to mimic pizzicado plucking of a violin string in a most impressive fashion.

After a few rounds, the tempo picks up and what occurs then is something else. I do not know what it is but I liked it. By the time the song concluded, my life was all sunshine and puppy dogs. I was happy.

There are 11 songs on “Brittni,” including several with guests such as legendary vocalist Melveen Leeds and bassits Nathan Aweau and Shawn Pimental. Some others on the album include violinist Hiroaki Tsukamoto, Dan Del Negro on keyboards and co-producer Wendell Ching on drums.

“Brittni” was produced by Brittni Paiva for Talmidim Productions. Engineered and mastered by Wendell Ching. Available now. Go to: http://www.brittnipaiva.com for more information.

—By W. Knox Richardson