The Hukilau is a little slice of tiki culture a.k.a. the best current approximation of a mid-century approximation of Polynesian culture. Think aloha shirts, high socks, flip-up sunglasses, wood carvings, fruity drinks of uncommon potency and lots of music. In this specific instance we are talking about surf music, specifically guitar based instrumental surf-ish music played by four guys in mascaras de lucha libre. Los Straitjackets have been going at it since the early 1990s. They are deft, fleet-fingered musicians in matching clothing, blazing through numbers with great aplomb.
The very nice people down at Yep Roc Records have kindly given the
gentle readers of Crossfade an mp3 for consideration. This is representative of the Straits' music -- quick, fun, instrumental, with funny masks and suits. Get a cocktail and get down. Hukilau is
always a super-fun event and these guys are a major treat to see.
MP3: Los Straitjackets - "Fortune Cookie"
Los
Straitjackets perform Friday, June 12 at the Hukilau. Also appearing
at the main event will be ghe Van Orsdels, Haole Kats, DJ Laura of
Miami, Marina the Mermaid and dancers Sable Sin Cyr & Candy Del
Rio. For more information go to www.thehukilau.com
