Wonderful World

Wonderful World

Wonderful World
Even a decade after his bereavement at period 38 in 1997, Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwo'ole remains Hawaii's best-known and most beloved singer. His career started when he and his older blood brother, Skippy, orchestrated a array in their hometown near Honolulu. The two performed together until the latter kicked the bucket in 1982. The band persisted on because some years but it was Iz's haunting voice, with its searing yet limpid falsetto, that captured the popular imagination. Indeed, his 'ukulele-laced version of "Over the Rainbow" is widely thought to be the only interpretation that might possibly stand up to Judy Garland's original. Now that the definitive retrospective, Alone in IZ World (2001), has been released, it is perhaps inevitable that new arrangements should be slipped in under Iz's inimitable, indelible vocal tracks. The excellent news is, however, that these particular lush orchestrations, while totally superfluous, are nonetheless respectful and in excellent taste, never overwhelming the singing (as if whatever might!). There are no revelations, but, luckily, no unpleasant shocks, either. Perhaps, had he lived, Iz might have made up our minds to depart this route anyway. As with Louis Armstrong's (the title of this album refers to Iz's own cover of "What A Wonderful World") and Buddy Holly's string-backed experiments, it's simply yet one more way to rejoice the legacy of a disappeared genius. --Christina Roden

Customer Review: IZ - What a WONDERFUL SOUL!

Iz has a soothing, velvety-voice like no other. What a legacy to leave the planet. Great price & item. Highly recommend.

Customer Review: Disgraceful... SHAME ON MOUNTAIN APPLE COMPANY!

I can't accept as true that that they completed this to IZ's recordings. I've never skilled so disappointed in my life. The vocals are over-processed and echo-y, and the orchestral arrangements are a complete mess. To release crap like this is totally disrespectful to to IZ's legacy. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS ALBUM. DO NOT EVEN WASTE YOUR TIME LISTENING TO THIS ALBUM.