Ekolu, Island Bound, Unified Culture
"It all began back in 1994 where 3 young and talented men of Maui, began their musical journey. Lukela Keala, Akoni Dellomes & Makapu Hoopii attended Baldwin High School and were enrolled in the music class. Day after day they would have little jam sessions but always tried to perfect what they played. As the year went by, their talents allowed them to perform in front of an audience for the first time at Brown Bags to Stardom. Although they took 2nd place to ballerina dancers (Ha Ha Ha!). It didn't stop them. Former Baldwin High school teacher, Kevin Brown plays a great role in their music history today. He was the ukulele and slack key guitarist teacher but also Lukela's uncle. He taught them the values of becoming a musician but most important, to be humble. Since then Lukela, Akoni and Makapu strived on to become the entertainers they are today. 'Down in the Valley' became their first hit back in 1999. This album made them well-known not only in Hawaii, but also in the Mainland and as far as east coast. Three years later, Ekolu came out with their second debut album called, 'Shores of Waiehu.' This album gave Hawaii a little twist of its own unique style." (Promo Copy)