Kaukahi "Kaukahi" is the journey of four diverse Hawaiian men on different paths, all destined to meet. They joined in 2004 for one purpose: to live and share aloha wherever they go. This journey continues as their friendship deepens. The vision becomes clearer as they become more comfortable with who they were created to be, tapping into deep inner resources while at the same time connected by the Spirit. Whether singing, talking story, or laughing together, their synergy is obvious. Faith, and their love for one another, their families, Hawai'i, and the nations, is the common thread that keeps them bound with "singleness of purpose". Wonderful things often happen in the most unexpected ways. It all began in April 2004 when these four very talented, fun, crazy, diverse guys got together. From the moment they began that very first "jam" in Dean's carport, it was magic! The more they got to know each other, hanging out with each other's families, and playing music together, it was obvious there was something special about their synergy as a group. Actually, it started long before that. They were all accomplished musicians and knew about each other, but all four had never played music together. They didn't all show up at Dean's carport by accident. Kawika was not only a well known Hawaiian musician with two solo CD's on the market (one of them a Na Hoku Hanohano Award finalist), but also a highly respected "Kahu" (spiritual leader) who Dean wanted to meet. That meeting finally happened in 2003. Dean and Barrett had been friends for many years after their paths crossed during middle school at Kamehameha School. They remained connected, playing together in the band, "Pai'ea", who became well-known when their first CD became a Na Hoku Hanohano Award finalist. "Pai'ea" was about to record their second CD when the "Kaukahi" connections began. Dean also met Walt in 2003 at a park where each had taken their children. Walt, who is a cousin to the late Iz Kamakawiwo'ole, was playing his 'ukulele while hanging out with his daughter. Walt and Dean's children started playing with each other while the fathers talked. Dean found it interesting to meet another fellow Hawaiian musician, who was also a "Kahu". Kaukahi would not be what it is if it wasn't for a great team working together with supportive wives who do all they can to uphold the vision and keep the guys on track. So, where did it begin? No one can really say, except the great Father above Who knows where and how it began and where it is going. Barrett Awai (upright bass/vocals) Formerly a member of the group "Pai'ea", Barrett brings a positive contribution to Kaukahi with his vocal talent and skill on the upright bass, bringing depth and strength of the group. Kawika Kahiapo (guitar/vocals) Kawika has been on the scene since 1978 as a musician with Chucky boy Chock, Palani Vaughan, Del Beazly, Na Leo Pilimehana and Slack key Masters, etc. He has contributed his talents on some 55+ recordings, including "Curious George Sing-Along Lullabies" with Jack Johnson. Walt Keale (Ukulele/vocals) Continuing in the style and uniqueness that made Uncle Moe and brother IZ household names in Hawaii, Walt undoubtedly carries the same mixture of aloha, humor, love for his people and his 'aina. In the timbre of his voice one can sense and feel that the mantle placed on that family lives on. Dean Wilhelm (guitar/vocals) Also a former member of the group "Pai'ea", Dean has had music infused into his life from a very young age. He has matured and polished his craft to bring a solid contribution into the overall sound of Kaukahi.