“Hailing from the rainy forests of ‘Ōla‘a on Hawai‘i Island, Kalei Pulapulaakama Yamanoha grew up surrounded by Hawaiian music, family stories, and the sound of slack key guitar drifting through backyard gatherings. His playing reflects that upbringing—grounded, warm, and full of the small details of his home. The sounds of Slack key (kī hō‘alu) is where he finds his voice, blending old melodies with his own style while keeping the heart of the tradition intact.

Kalei is traveling from Hawai‘i Island to share his music at Honeymoon Meads on December 26th, where he’ll be playing a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs, paniolo tunes, and original pieces. His shows are relaxed and personal—more like sitting with a friend than watching from a distance. Through stories, humor, and the gentle feel of slack key, he aims to bring listeners a small piece of Hawai‘i and the sense of home that comes with it.”