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Willie K already had my attention before his duet with Willie Nelson on Away in a Manger. But this little bonus track was only one of the most notable signs of Willie K's versatile Holiday stylings. Incorporating Reggae, swing, and contemporary folk sensibilities into his Hawaiian Island ukulele style, K brings forth a product notable for its integrated harmonies and surprising variations on traditional melodies.

Using this subtle musicality, he somehow found a way to breathe new life into the obligatory Silent Night, an unlikely highlight on a record filled with highlights. Effecting a cross between Neil Diamond and Bruce Springsteen, K ripped through a rock medley of The Little Drummer Boy/Ring Your Christmas Bells. Other highlights abound, but I won't give away everything here.

Here is an artist who deserves more recognition, and a Christmas record sure to make spirits bright for years to come.

--Richard Banks
(Reviewed in 2001)

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Willie K

Willie Kalikimaka

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Track List