DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown aka Erykah Badu

Saturday, October 29, 2016
7:15pm-8:00pm - The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)
11:45pm-1:15am - Club Hallowbaloo - Gordon Biersch at Aloha Tower Marketplace

“…Loretta Brown came because I didn’t want to separate that energy of Eryka Badu’s frequency, from what I do when I’m spinning...”

Whether you know her by one moniker or the other—or both, in this case—DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown aka Erykah Badu creates musical mixes anchored in variety and divergence pieced together in a manner that proves energy cannot be created nor destroyed, but simply transformed.

Despite adopting the alter-ego, Badu’s neo-soul/R&B/hip-hop sound undoubtedly roots itself into her turntable selections. There is an underlying degree of grit in all she produces, both as a singer/songwriter and a DJ; a kind of clarity that can be heard in her choice of beats and basslines, a not-so-subtle connection of consciousness to Hip Hop and activist cultures. From taking a hit by the Staple Singers and transitioning it into a Lil’ Wayne track, to overlaying techno beats with Top 40 hip-hop, the blends of DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown aka Erykah Badu remind listeners that the best way to enjoy a sonic journey is by embracing the unexpected.

This year, we are fortunate to witness DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown aka Erykah Badu delve out TWO DJ sets: the first on our Hallowbaloo Grandest Spectacle Stage on the front lawn of the Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM), and the second as part of Club Hallowbaloo, at Gordon Biersch. Don’t miss your chance to groove along with this living example of harmony and flow!

Iyeoka

Saturday, October 29, 2016 9:00pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

Iyeoka (pronounced E-Yo-Ka) returns to Hallowbaloo poised to close-out our 2016 street festival in knock-out fashion. We couldn't be more excited.

This Nigerian-American world poetry slam champion, hit-making recording artist and TED Fellow, Iyeoka Ivie Okoawo, first performed at Hallowbaloo in 2014. We learned quickly at that show that Iyeoka is anything but a one-hit wonder (her song, "Simply Falling," has more than 40,000,000 YouTube views, is averaging 10,000,000 new views every year and has hit #1 in several European countries). Iyeoka's live vocal stops you in your tracks, and she backs it up with passionate, focused performance night in and night out. Her talents have earned her star status in Europe where she regularly plays to crowds of more than 20,000 and finds groupies waiting outside her hotel for autographs from her and her band (local, world-fusion maestros, Quadraphonix).

Spend time with Iyeoka, and you'll quickly find that the root of her success lies in her great sincerity and limitless joy and curiosity. We are grateful and proud to showcase her and Quadraphonix in the closing slot of our main stage. Count on it being a rocking good time. It's not a matter of if but when the rest of America falls as deeply in love with Iyeoka as us.

"Iyeoka's Paper Heart" - Special Show at Hawaii Public Radio's Atherton Studio - Friday, Oct. 28th: catch Iyeoka at HPR the night before Hallowbaloo where she'll be leading a workshop focused on helping you capture your creative spark. Through poetry, singing, storytelling and interactive dialog, she'll help you take the first or next step on your artistic journey. Link to details / tickets below.

Charlie Hunter & Scott Amendola

Saturday, October 29, 2016 8:05pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

**ALL ABOUT THE GROOVE**

Two masters of their instruments (guitar & drums) lay it down deep and dance all over the top. Groovalicious!

Charlie Hunter and Scott Amendola have a musical and spiritual bond as strong as any duo you'll find. Releasing their first album together in 1995 entitled, "T.J. Kirk" (interpreting songs of Thelonius Monk, James Brown, and Rahsaan Roland Kirk), Hunter and Amendola have remained close ever since recording multiple albums and completing countless tours. They clearly love playing together and approach music from the same perspective. Be in the moment and on the beat on every recording and performance and let groove take over. Improvisation keeps the duo and audience engaged and locked into an irresistible sound that comes straight from the heart.

Charlie Hunter: 20+ years at the top of the music industry. One of the grooviest guitar virtuosos on the planet playing both bass and lead on one *seven-string* guitar. Nearly 20 albums as a band leader. Co-founder of Garage A Trois. Recordings with D'Angelo, Frank Ocean, Michael Franti, Norah Jones, Zap Mama, Snarky Puppy, etc.

Scott Amendola: 20+ years at the top of the music industry. The smiliest drummer in the world creating hypnotic rhythms while dancing across his drum kit with sheer glee and utter poise. Nine albums as a band leader plus recordings with Four Tet, Nels Cline (Wilco guitarist), Madeleine Peyroux, Bill Frisell, Henry Kaiser, etc. Bio:

D Sharp

Saturday, October 29, 2016 10:00pm
Club Hallowbaloo - Gordon Biersch at Aloha Tower Marketplace

Realistically, we’d guess it’d be pretty hard to find someone who calls themselves a DJ, but doesn’t really love music. Djing - it's all about spinning / lovin' music. Yet, there are different levels of commitment and drive among electronic artists. With D Sharp, there is no doubt he stands at the head of the class when it comes to passion for his craft— “I’ve been DJing for a long time, almost half of my life. Some cats pick up a basketball, some cats a baseball, football…I picked up the turntables, you know what I’m saying?”

If you’re a basketball fan, D Sharp’s face might be one that you recognize, as he's the Resident DJ for the force-to-be-reckoned-with NBA team, the Golden State Warriors. While we can't think of many things more fun, it ain't an easy gig with D Sharp laying down beats courtside during Steph Curry's famous warm-ups before perching himself atop the second floor balcony keeping the crowd electrified during breaks throughout the game. A look and listen to some of his Warriors-themed hype mixes is highly recommended when prepping Hallowbaloo costumes or pre-gaming for our big dance (check 'em at djdsharp.co; soundcloud.com/djdsharp).

But the extent of DJ D Sharp’s identity isn’t defined by the crisp courtside cuts he crafts during games (though trust, of those there is no shortage); the man is a world-traveler, who has been on the decks professionally since the age of 15. He has worked with the likes of Jay Z, Kanye West, Outkast, Common, Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dogg, The Game, Pharrell, Wu Tang Clan, Lauryn Hill, Blackalicious, and more, and he only intends to keep progressing. D Sharp’s artistry can best be conveyed as musical fusions that defy genre and era—he often mixes Top 40 Hits with the classic feel of Soul/R&B/Funk, layering Hip-Hop turntablism throughout—keeping things crackling with an electric eagerness that can be felt channeling through him, and on to the dancefloor, no matter where he is in the world.

We’re thrilled to have D Sharp as part of Club Hallowbaloo 2016, turning his turntable trickery at Gordon Biersch in the Aloha Tower Marketplace…his performance promises to be anything but flat!

Makana

Saturday, October 29, 2016 5:50pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

Bursting into the top of the Hawaii music scene while still in his teens, Ki Ho'alu singer-songwriter, Makana displayed international, star talent from his earliest days of public performance. Since that time, he has become a complete musician and person - musically, both a student and ambassador of Hawaiian traditions while also a trailblazer of new sounds and approaches - personally, pushing himself to continually explore, stretch and grow. Whether touring alongside Joe Walsh and Bad Company (this past June / July), performing for President Obama and world leaders or stumping for political change, Makana pours his heart and soul into everything he does and every note he plays.

Last month, Hawaii lost two brothers and musicians who profoundly affected Hawaii culture, Ernie Cruz, Jr. and his younger brother, Guy Cruz. Both inspired individuals and influenced culture around the state and world, and both had direct impact on Hallowbaloo. Much of our festival's foundation was built through the contributions of John Cruz, Guy Cruz and Ernie Cruz, Jr. Our founder and director, Mark Tarone, worked as John's manager for three consecutive years immediately prior to Mark's founding Hallowbaloo in 2008. John, Guy and Ernie taught Mark much about the power of music and its ability to connect and uplift all. That energy is the root of Hallowbaloo. Halloween is the perfect time to let it shine and work its magic.

Makana was a central figure in the Hawaii music heyday created in significant part by himself, Ernie and Guy. We thank Makana for performing at Hallowbaloo 2016 and thereby helping us remember and honor two special musicians and people who gave us so much.

Samadhi Hawaii

Saturday, October 29, 2016 5:30pm-10pm Periodic Sets
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

Contriving wonderment in performances where feet refuse to touch the ground, Samadhi Hawaii leaves audiences believing anything is possible. Samadhi, in Hindu religion, is the highest state of mental concentration that a person can achieve while still bound to the body. The aerial dancers of Samadhi Hawaii consistently achieve that state and carry onlookers along for the ride. Samadhi Hawaii's recent "Poetry in Motion" performance at Kaka'ako Agora demonstrates the tremendous reach and commitment of the organization and its leader, Andrea Torres. The event showcased four different aerial groups: i) instructors, ii) youth, iii) apprentices and iv) burlesque aerialists. By passionately seeking to wow audiences across the state and world and inviting others to join, Torres and Samadhi Hawaii have established a robust new dance culture in Hawaii - truly something special.

The Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM), the epicenter of Hallowbaloo 2016, serves as an ideal stage for Samadhi Hawaii. With large tree canopies anchored by the stately museum, Samadhi’s beauty and grace will be in full display performing multiple sets throughout the night.

Quadraphonix

Saturday, October 29, 2016
9:00pm - The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)
Late Night Set - Club Hallowbaloo - Ong King Arts Center (184 N King St.)

Spending most of July and August performing at large European festivals as the backing band for Iyeoka (star artist with over 40 million YouTube views and #1 hits across Europe), Quadraphonix has the goods to get tens of thousands of people grooving and singing in unison. Those talents come from nearly 20 straight years of playing together and an eternal love of and commitment to music and performance.

While rooted in funk and rock, Quadraphonix's music contains unmistakable world influences including the stylings of its Malaysian guitarist, Sree Sadagopan - perfect fodder for propelling ghostly travel through the Hallowbaloo universe. Prepare for blast off!

DJ ANNALOG

Saturday, October 29, 2016 8:00pm
Dance Cauldron Stage (Richard St. - Mauka)

Anna Dang is the definition of a quadruple threat if we’ve ever seen one! This creative Lancaster, Pennsylvania native is a successful visual artist, skateboarder, model, and DJ rolled into a single being—and if it ever needs proving, she’s got the street cred to show that she’s more than capable of holding her own in each category. As the prominent female, Vietnamese, vinyl-spinning DJ ANNALOG—so named for the cutting and blending of wax that she initially fell in love with, at age 18—she has held club residencies in Orlando, LA, Paris, NYC, and is now based in Honolulu. Her nature is spontaneous, and her spirit has been described as follows: “When you hear her live, you can tell that as a music cultivator and tastemaker, her repertoire spans widely from old school ​reggae, 90’s hip hop and funk samples to modern day trap, deep house and EDM.”

DJ Annalog’s playlists, which can be peeped (along with her debut album, samples of her artwork, and an impressive list of credits) on her website (link below), exemplify that she is a DJ who is in-tune with what the people want - from upbeat and danceable Electro Indie House to head-nodding, body-swaying Trap and Hip-Hop. It’s no wonder that she’s gigged with so many notable names in the music industry including electronic luminaries Skrillex, Diplo and Pretty Lights. When the clock strikes 8pm, beeline it to The Dance Cauldron Stage for DJ Annalog’s Hallowbaloo debut and get ready to feel the burn in every dance muscle in your body.

Kalalea

Saturday, October 29, 2016 7:00pm-10pm Periodic Sets
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

Creativity, rhythm and light marry to create an unforgettable performance sure to excite. Kalalea’s world class fire and light shows have placed them in demand worldwide and made them a regular at Hawaii’s grandest public and private productions. Their ohana of dancers hail from both Kauai and Oahu with hoops, poi, staff, fans and umbrellas all included in their arsenal. Kalalea means ‘sun that dances’ in Hawaiian language, a fitting name as dancers enthrall audiences with glowing props, split second timing, creative costuming and graceful choreography.

Performing on the lawn of the Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) beneath its large tree canopies, Kalalea is sure to add a giant spark to the extraordinarily lively evening.

With their penchant for graceful dance and awe-inspiring costumes, Kalalea is not only a long-time Hallowbaloo performer but also a perfect fit for our new magic kingdom - HiSAM and the surrounding streets.

Tavana

Saturday, October 29, 2016 6:25pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

An array of foot pedals sits stoically set up on the floor, mechanical and motionless in the pre-performance silence, until he takes the stage and begins to strum…

Whether you’ve been a fan of his for a while now, or have yet to experience this musical powerhouse live, know that Tavana has become a catalyst in Hawaii’s local scene who doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. 2016 has proven to be a year of gathering momentum for this mesmerizingly unique one-man band. From recent artist collaborations to successful repeat gigs at Blue Note Hawaii, Hawaiian Brian’s, and Downbeat Lounge, Tavana isn’t just pushing pedals—he’s pushing limits.

For many moons, Tavana has employed a veritable arsenal of stringed instruments at his shows, and while the variety of styles and sounds certainly prove entertaining, it’s his new 2016 additions that are most intriguing. But before getting to his recently added sounds, you must first appreciate where he came from. Taking in a Tavana show is akin to seeing the great David Lindley who graced Hallowbaloo’s main stage two years ago. On any given night, Tavana will break out acoustic guitars, ukulele, electric guitar and/or banjo, plus acoustic and/or electric lap steel slide guitars - sometimes all of the above in one sitting. From these strings, he draws out blistering blues along with folk, rock and country - all in partnership with his big, bold vocals. For years with this playing, Tavana has strongly engaged listeners - including rock giant Eddie Vedder who insisted Tavana join Vedder on-stage at Hawaii Theatre for a rendition of “Hawaii ‘78” after Vedder heard Tavana sing the song. Yet for all the succes through the years, there is something different about Tavana in 2016.

Behold Tavana’s “self-built pedal board [that] looks like something out of Mad Max”, and catches the listener’s eye and curiosity. The assortment of electronic drum triggers and gadgets fanned out at his feet are far more than a decorative stage prop, or simple accompaniment to Tavana’s strumming and singing, they give this music man access to a full-scale drum set, with a rhythmic tap of his toes— producing an impressively HUGE sound, in a uniquely minimalist package.

Tavana is a sight to see, and you’ll get to do just that, as he takes to Hallowbaloo’s main stage on the Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) front lawn, at dusk. He will leave you energized for the night ahead, guaranteed!

dj mr. nick

Saturday, October 29, 2016 7:00pm
Dance Cauldron Stage (Richard St. - Mauka)

dj mr. nick has performed at every Hallowbaloo making 2016 his 9th consecutive year taking the helm of a festival stage. With throngs of fans of both his weekly radio show, ‘Bridging the Gap’ (Hawaii Public Radio - HPR2) and frequent live Dj sets, he has become a cultural institution across the state. His magic hails from an amalgam of unfettered musical passion, a keen ear for and deep knowledge of worldwide rhythms and a positive, all-inclusive demeanor.

From Quantic to Hiatus Kaiyote to Los Hacheros, dj mr. nick’s radio sets take listeners on a globe trotting romp with his club sets following suit in albeit higher octane fashion. dj mr. nick’s street festival set takes place on our Dance Cauldron Stage. With large monkeypod trees overhanging the stage flanked by towering palms and the expansive lawn of the Capitol Building, it’s a perfect setting for the pure melodies and beats that flow from nick’s decks. Time to bust out your dancin’ shoes!

Tommy Osuna

Saturday, October 29, 2016
5:10pm w/ Paul Izak, 6:25pm Tavana guest appearance - The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)
9:00pm w/ James, Ransom, Kline & Osuna - Street Cabaret Stage

As a recording and performing artist, Tommy Osuna has enjoyed working outside the envelope of the mainstream record business for nearly two decades. “Tommy the Swami” was born in Southern California to a family of Italian, Spanish and Apache heritage, and began playing music when he was 8 years old. He started out with the trumpet, but soon picked up his older brother’s guitar, inspired by an early love of Jimmy Page and Ted Nugent.

Tommy went on to study at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, maturing to the point that he was nominated guitar player of the year and subsequently offered a teaching position. However, he’d already been accepted at Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music, and the prospect of leaving California for training on the East Coast offered a world of new opportunity.

While at Berklee, he spent over two years working on his debut recording, Third Stream, freely exploring various stylistic directions and ethnic world flavors. He had no pre-conceived concept for the album, instead pursuing a path of pure discovery that would allow him to remain open to possibilities while learning the art of production and recording.

On his second independent release, Message from the Tiki Man, Osuna again pushed the boundaries of sound and imagination, exploring open-endedly “until the magic happened.” Boston Metronome called him “a man with a vision,” and The Boston Globe said “Tommy’s way of portraying music is all his own.” The editor of Jazziz said simply that Osuna “plays like water, a very unique stream.”

Tommy has performed with the likes of Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell and Jamaican Reggae legend Earl “Chinna” Smith. But for his album, ‘Trippin’ he wanted to re-visit classic and blues-based rock idioms, with blistering riffs and rock-solid bottom end – and, for the exact sound he wanted, he enlisted rock/funk/blues legend Buddy Miles (Buddy Miles Express, Electric Flag, Hendrix’s Band of Gypsies). Sadly, their collaboration would be the last recording of the veteran drummer’s storied career. The project brought Osuna, Miles and San Francisco bassist John Piscitello together at L.A.’s Studio City Sound, where Osuna and Miles discovered an instantaneous personal and artistic rapport.

“Buddy Miles was like a great piece of earth,” says Osuna, “and I am so honored and grateful for his contribution to this record. Right off the bat, Buddy and I hit it off. We talked about life, and we talked about what we wanted to accomplish with this record. He was excited that the album would be all about the music and nothing else, just playing our asses off.”

The recording sessions went extremely well with Miles laying down his trademark steady backbone of rhythm. On their final day of recording, Buddy said, “I haven’t felt like this since I was playing with Jimi.” Then they wrapped up the track called “Mama” — and the final recording of the great Buddy Miles’ career was complete. The musicians talked excitedly about touring together in the coming year, but Miles died unexpectedly at the age of sixty.

Osuna says, “He was the coolest of the cool, and really charming in a magical way. He had his own tone, no matter what he played on. He made Jimi sound the best, and he played the best fat back drums known to man.”

Last year, Tommy made the move to Hawaii, Oahu specifically, and it’s proven to be a fertile jolt. Here in the islands Tommy has embraced all aspects of music - songwriting, production (co-producer of separate projects by Paul Izak and Brian von Ahsen earlier this year) and live performance - an area Tommy had let go before landing in Honolulu. Hallowbaloo hit the lottery this year and is graced with not one but three performances by Tommy at the street festival. After just a few notes, you’ll know why we’re excited. Tommy’s fluid, rhythmic style is a blessing to all.

Paul Izak

Saturday, October 29, 2016 5:10pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

If practicing what you preach can be likened to a spark of guiding light, then Paul Izak is a shining beacon enlightening the masses. The style of this Kailua-native / singer-songwriter can be best described as folk storytelling anchored in reggae rhythms. Just as Pete Seeger leveraged direct, straightforward songs to move mountains, Izak recognizes such an approach is often most effective. And for Izak the success of a song, EP or album is just as much based on the impact of its message as the effect of its melody.

But make no mistake about it, Izak has a gift with melody, in particular rhythmic vocal phrasing, and a vocal tone that’s equally compelling. His years of singing chorus as a child are clearly evident. Hearing him lock on the beat with his band mates and sing out a conscious lyric is akin to a walk through a warm, shaded beach park with the soft crash of waves in the distance. It’s a sound that just feels right - big, cozy, beautiful and fun.

With song titles such as “Be Free,” “Love is a Bridge,” “No GMO,” and “Choose to Be,” Izak, a yogi/farmer/musician, calls out for sustainability and conservation, social and economic equality, freedom of choice, and belief in expressing one’s truest form.

Climbing aboard Hallowbaloo’s main stage on HiSAM’s front lawn during the golden hour, Izak brings a perfect sound for the natural surroundings and spirit of the day. His set at our 2013 Hallowbaloo Kanikapila found him in a similar environment, and that show remains one of our all-time favorites. Expect an easy sound that gets your feet moving and heart swelling.

Good Foot

Saturday, October 29, 2016 10:45pm-1am (periodic sets)
Club Hallowbaloo - The ARTS at Marks Garage (1159 Nuuanu Ave.)

Keep your Hallowbaloo marchin' on a Good Foot with this eight-piece soul/funk/Afrobeat ensemble featuring baritone sax, tenor sax, percussion, guitar, electric bass, drums and vocals. Simply make your way to The ARTS at Marks Garage, and Good Foot will do the rest. Funky bass lines, blistering horns and zinging guitar licks combine to create undeniable, polyrhythmic goodness. It’s music that makes you move - from original compositions to classic rarities. Their performance is good reason to indulge in Club Hallowbaloo and enjoy all the festival has to offer.

While the band has garnered acclaim from Hawaii Public Radio and die-hard funk fans alike, we suspect Good Foot is still a new name to many. Take our word for it. Good Foot’s Hallowbaloo set will be rollicking fun, and one you don’t want to miss. Special Bonus: Dat Cajun Guy food truck will have a pop-up food booth at Arts at Marks Garage until 1am - dishing out onolicious fare including Shrimp Po'boys, Jambalaya, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, Chicken & Shrimp Gumbo, etc.

MELODY JAY

Saturday, October 29, 2016 4:30pm-6:00pm
Dance Cauldron Stage (Richard St. - Mauka)

You could almost say that Melody Jay doesn’t just play island music—she lives and breathes a lifestyle. Since getting her start on KTUH with the reggae radio show The Monday Morning Melody, Melody Jay (pronounced Mel-O-Dee-Jay) has become an established iHeart Radio DJ on the #1 ranked Hawaiian style/reggae station Island 98.5 and member of the Kitchen Music Society collective, with an expansive social media following. And the growth of her music career seems to have no end in sight. This year alone has taken her live sets to California, Tahiti, Jamaica, and Washington, and she performs annually at the California Roots Music and Arts Festival, as well as the Wanderlust Yoga Festival at Turtle Bay on the North Shore of Oahu. Events over the years have allowed Melody Jay to share the stage with names like Tarrus Riley, Collie Buddz, The Green, Eli-Mac, Leilani Wolfgramm, Ooklah Da Moc, The Vitals, Hirie and Stick Figure. She also worked with J Boog on his music video shoot for “Let’s Do It Again” at Sandy Beach.

But as we mentioned, Melody Jay’s character isn’t simply limited to what she does in the sound booth—she runs a state-wide nonprofit called Youth Empowerment & Success (YES Hawaii), which provides outreach and mentoring opportunities for youth involved in the Child Welfare System, and has volunteered in Jamaica at the Jamaica National Children’s Home, sharing music, food, love, laughter, Christmas gifts, and transitional guidance. For the latest on Melody Jay’s globe-spanning passion pursuits, visit 808topranking.com, or follow her on Instagram (@808melody)!

Melody Jay will be making her Halowballoo debut on The Dance Cauldron Stage, where she’ll be showcasing her sunshiney, skank-able selections that are sure to kick off Hallowbaloo 2016 in major feel-good fashion!

Mareko

Saturday, October 29, 2016 4:45pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

What better way to kick off your Hallowbaloo 2016 experience than listen to a multi-faceted talent sharing an innovative sound? Mark Medeiros, who goes by “Mareko” on stage, presents the audience with exactly that: a singer/songwriter/actor/musician whom you may recognize from the series reboot of Hawaii Five-0 and other film projects. It is music that is Mareko’s first love however, since first teaching himself to play the ukulele at age 11. Pulling from many a musical influence, Mareko experimented with genres uncommon to the instrument. Recently, this can be heard in his and Rachel Thorpe’s cover of Major Lazer’s “Cold Water," a song whose original recording features Justin Bieber. With Mareko and Thorpe's version, the two maintain the electronic pop backbone of the song and add distinct island influences in the form of ukulele and a reggae-tinged vocal. Not a combination many would think of let alone attempt, but Mareko and Thorpe pull it off so well their recording has landed in rotation at multiple island radio stations here.

Other notable work of Mareko’s is the music video he just released for his original song, “Sweet Melody,” which features legendary local artist Fiji and showcases the acting/storytelling ability of Mareko himself. While these projects (all of which can be found at his website - link below) and his first EP were reggae-themed, Mareko is still, much like his young self, not bound by any one genre and writes songs as such. That boundless nature combined with soulful vocals are making Mareko stand out from the crowd quickly. We're thrilled to present Mareko to many new listeners and are excited to see the path he leads at Hallowbaloo and beyond!

Activ8 electro jazz circus

Saturday, October 29, 2016 4:30pm-8:30pm
Sreet Cabaret Stage (Richards St. - Makai)

Rockin electro jazz reality - circus style. The product of mastermind and main drummer, Jerome James, the Activ8 Circus is focused on delivering an immersive experience to spectators via music and dance performances, visual stimulants and direct artist-audience interaction. Raised in one of Hawaii’s great drumming families, James takes Activ8’s music seriously but remains locked-in on the end goal - engaging and uplifting onlookers. This translates to every Activ8 show being unique, memorable affairs and perfect for the streets of Hallowbaloo.

For Hallowbaloo 2016, Activ8 electro jazz circus includes multiple dance troupes, live painting, two bands, DJs and a Sky Kombucha Bar & Lounge. Stop by and engage!

Jamarek

Saturday, October 29, 2016 10:15pm-12:15am (periodic sets)
Club Hallowbaloo - The ARTS at Marks Garage (1159 Nuuanu Ave.)

On October 15th of this year, long-running, local Afro Beat group, Jamarek, released an album that constitutes must listen material. And you’re in luck. You can immerse yourself in its voluptuous cultural sounds for free. Just click the band’s website link below. You can stream the album ‘til your heart’s content and then purchase it for less than $10 with a few clicks.

What’s best is that their new album entitled, Fechal, is special not because it heads down a foreign, unexplored path, but rather because it presents traditional Afro Beat melodies and instrumentation in fine fashion. Not surprising when you consider the band members have collectively studied and practiced African music and culture for more than a century. Throughout Fechal, the rhythms are compelling, and the tone is full and rich. The cherry on top with extra cream are the beautiful vocals of Jamarek’s lead singer, Kahnma K - pure, emotional singing delivered with classic and lovely Afro phrasing.

Jamarek brings its 7-piece ensemble to The ARTS at Marks Garage for Club Hallowbaloo - partnering with local Afro Funk outfit, Good Foot. The mood is sure to be heavenly, and the rhythms even better. Run, don’t walk. We can’t wait!

Special Bonus: Dat Cajun Guy food truck will have a pop-up food booth running at Arts at Marks Garage until 1am featuring Shrimp Po'boys, Jambalaya, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, Chicken & Shrimp Gumbo, etc.

Siire

Saturday, October 29, 2016
Club Hallowbaloo - Downbeat Lounge (42 N. Hotel St.)

To ask this author what immediately comes to mind about Siire, Lords of the Rock, means my identifying them as one of the most active bands in Honolulu to date. From various bar venues around the island to events at the private establishments, it seems like Siire, who formed in 2013, really is everywhere sometimes! Rightfully so, as this band’s signature brew of alternative and hard rock tunes caters to audiences across age ranges and tastes. Their musical fashion hits like a hybrid of The Eagles and Guns ‘N Roses, but at the same time, manages to encapsulate the identity that Siire has forged for themselves in Hawaii (which comes partly from guitarist Eddie Black’s distinct EMG sound). Keep an ear out for a new album project on the horizon, but first, enjoy the prowess they will bring to the stage for their Club Hallowbaloo debut performance at Downbeat Lounge!

DJ Toki

Saturday, October 29, 2016 9:00pm
Dance Cauldron Stage (Richard St. - Mauka)

DJ Toki is one of those artists who you’re probably familiar with, even if you don’t quite realize it yet. That’s because Toki has been making waves in the Honolulu scene since 2002 when she stepped out with the all-female DJ collective, Sisters in Sound. Born and raised in Hawaii, Toki quickly discovered her style by amassing a large vinyl collection and teaching herself to mix and beat-match records. That in turn spurred by her love of drum and bass and “desire to spin a diversity of rhythms.” She and her sound are that of a seasoned, passionate veteran. A DJ who plays to the room and the moment whether that be smooth and mellow to gritty and hard-hitting, electro to heavy breakbeats, esoteric to pop. The result is an always feel-good effect - delivering the dose that’s needed when it’s needed.

Since her adolescent DJ days with Sisters in Sound, DJ Toki has gone on to perform at notable stateside events, as well as creating a prominent presence in Hawaii’s nightlife scene including regular gigs at Hawaii Slam (First Thursday Poetry Slam), Honolulu Night Market, Secret Record Store, Art + Flea and more. Toki is also the co-founder of her own monthly event, Slow & Low - devoted to exploring and pushing the boundaries and applications of bass, throughout all genres.

A recipe for can’t miss Halloween cheer: check out DJ Toki’s mixes on SoundCloud while prepping your costume; then, bounce over to the Dance Cauldron Stage at 9pm and revel in her sonic sorcery as she closes out our street festival!

Hunter Down

Saturday, October 29, 2016 4:45pm-10:00pm
The Grandest Spectacle Stage (HiSAM front lawn)

Through the years, whether it's managing performances at Waikiki’s former world-class cirque show, CabaRAE, or being master of ceremonies at Burly-Q Bingo or acting in Cherry Blossom Cabaret’s Alice in Wonderland, Hunter Down has always commanded attention. Hunter takes full advantage of his magnetism leading audiences on galloping, wild rides. As the former, long-time operator of Chinatown’s Ong King Art Center whose mission is to foster a sustainable art community replete with creative risk taking, Hunter’s commitment and knowledge of performance art goes far beyond his onstage antics. The Chinatown Arts District and public audiences alike are lucky to have Hunter Down - an omnipresent creative fixture and always positive, ‘can do’ leader.

Look for Hunter on The Grandest Spectacle Stage where he will serve as emcee. A fun, clever, off-the-beaten path journey awaits.

Godiva

Saturday, October 29, 2016 6:00pm-7:00pm
Dance Cauldron Stage (Richard St. - Mauka)

Godiva, whose handle derives from her being a descendant of Lady Godiva herself (…did anyone else just get a sudden chocolate craving?), is a Honolulu-based DJ and producer of many talents. She currently serves as Director of Experience at The Surfjack Hotel, a new Waikiki boutique property that has quickly become magnet for good gatherings and vibes thanks in large part to Godiva’s guidance. Prior to her riding the tide with Surfjack, Godiva co-founded CoXist Studio, a multi-use arts, entertainment and retail space. She also co-founded a popular music festival in Kakaako and for many moons, hosted THE WINE DOWN music variety showcase / radio show every week on KTUH Honolulu 90.3FM.

When it comes to DJing, Godiva takes an eclectic genre-shattering approach similar to her WINE DOWN show on KTUH. The mix can range anywhere from chillwave, psychedelic, world music, future R&B, and indie to old school soul, funk, and ska. She intertwines refreshing world music, modern electronica beats and bits of everything in between with well-known old school jams, to fashion creative, tasteful soundscapes that are as varied as they are vibe-inducing. Find samples of Godiva’s playlists and her SoundCloud page on her website (link below) and catch her working her magic on The Dance Cauldron stage at this year’s Hallowbaloo!

Half Step Down

Saturday, October 29, 2016
Club Hallowbaloo - Downbeat Lounge (42 N. Hotel St.)

Half Step Down is an alternative rock group that has been taking large strides in the Honolulu music scene since its formation in 2014. As their Facebook page (see link) states, “Each member of Half Step Down brings their [sic] own sense of musical originality and as a collective, this band creates a unique amalgamate of alternative sound. Staying true and honest to the fabric of our music first and foremost, along with the pure intentions of friends’ aspirations, it will culminate to a dream turned reality.” Some might say that this young 5-piece band has already gotten a head start on keeping that dream alive. With driving rock melodies and powerful female vocals, Half Step Down seems to straddle the line of early 2000s-style alternative music, but takes this influence and pushes it towards a point that screams modernity and one-of-a-kind originality. That’s quite an attractive mix, and Hawaii has been taking notice. The collective recently opened for Of Monsters and Men in Honolulu this past April, adding their unique fervor to an experience that was already humming with anticipation. They followed this up in July with a music video for their newest release, entitled “Carousel” (have a listen on their YouTube channel).

Gigs and buzz have been coming fast and furious for Half Step Down, and you’ll see why when the band takes the stage at Downbeat Lounge at Club Hallowbaloo 2016!