Maoli. The word means “native” in Hawaiian and it’s also the name of the reggae group started in Maui by lead vocalist Glenn Awong in 2007 featuring bassist Kana and numerous musicians.
In 2008, Maoli released their first album “Groovin” and their first hit song “No One” and by 2012, they welcomed guitarist and vocalist, Nu’u Sing-Kahalehau.
The group has since released over 21 #1 Regional Island Reggae hits and their music was featured on TV for “Hawaii Five-O” and have toured throughout the world.
And where many groups tend to stay focused on a genre, Maoli has since evolved musically as they fuse elements of country, R&B, Soul, acoustic, rock and reggae.
In 2019, Maoli released their album “Sense of Purpose” and the album kicks off with their energetic song about living with a sense of purpose. In fact, the music video features athletes Kamalani Dung, Ray Cooper III and Keonilei Akana.
The second track is “Stone Cold”, a love song and a reggae track with Hawaiian vibes. Pretty cool track!
The third track is “Sunshine” and another cool song with positive vibes and love for a woman who is your sunshine who gives good vibes and a good life.
The fourth track is “Don’t You Love” is a reggae track of a troubled relationship and wanting to fix things.
The fifth track is “Heavy Rotation” is a ballad, while the sixth track “Love Like” is another good vibes, cool reggae track!
The seventh track is “Mercy” and my favorite track on the album. About wondering if the relationship is over, then if it’s the case, to end it fast. And asking “have mercy”.
The eighth track “Who Are You When I’m Not Looking” and a catchy track with a country vibe, the ninth track “Rumor” has an R&B style while the final track “Pray for Me” ends the album on a positive note and is a catchy reggae track with cool beats.
Overall, “Sense of Purpose” is another solid album from Maoli. A good variety of music, positive vibes but also showing us the consistency of the group after all these years and their ability to continue and produce great music.
Maoli’s “Sense of Purpose” is recommended!
