Kanekoa

Cresting on a wave of blissful sound, Maui’s Kanekoa has become a wide-sweeping phenomenon over the past decade. Powered by electric ukuleles and captivating rhythms, these masters of nimble finger-picking tap into the essence of island roots along with a fusion of reggae, soul and rock. It all fluidly spills into a sound they call Hawaiian jam-rock. They’ve delivered a series of dazzling performances here at the Crazy Horse over the years, sending audiences into the throes of ecstasy. Kanekoa was also a favorite at California World Fest in years past.

Kanekoa’s calling card is reinterpreting some of the best songs by legendary musicians ranging from the Grateful Dead to The Doors to Janes Addiction through the prism of their soulful, rhythmic island-style sound. They also create an authentic Hawaiian experience with their original music, whisking audiences away to exotic shores. Bill Kreutzmann goes so far as to call them, “the Hawaiian Grateful Dead.” David Hidalgo of Los Lobos says, “These guys scare me. They are that good.” The whole band is amazing, but the virtuosic ukulele acrobatics of Vince Esquire consistently prove to be the element that will leave you in a state of awe.

Host or Publisher Crazy Horse Saloon and Grill