Despite the limited space for music on my iphone, this whole cd made it in... although I am still in mourning for the bit of Coldplay and Aqualung that was sacrificed in the process. Kaiulani's voice has such range that there is no danger of monotony while listening. And for an album played as often as this one, that's saying a lot. Tracks like "scored" and "tainted princess" are so dynamic that I've kept them on repeat for... longer than I care to admit... but I'm still enjoying them as much as I did the first dozen times. It's pretty unique, they made it onto my "workout" playlist and my "relax" playlist... a first for any of the songs on my comp. The reviewers below explain the deeper elements of the cd better than I can, but aside from the fact it's so enjoyable to listen to, it's got a purpose behind it. Kind of like how writers put on paper their thoughts and the readers are influenced by that exposure, listeners of Kailuani go through a similar experience. Kaiulani sees the world in such a grounded and beautiful way that, after listening, things that may have been overlooked or misconstrued as gray suddenly come alive. Well, results may vary ;-) A friend of mine heard part of the song "break open" and said she thought it sounded sad, but when she heard the song in entirety she realized it was brimming with optimism and happiness. What she interpreted as the sad tone of Kaiulani's voice just made the song all that more versatile... but still authentic- The cd takes perceived contradictions (like a sad tone and a happy message, or the idea of being "broken" leading to a complete sense of wholeness) and consolidates them in such a way that reveals a whole new concept of truth. Hard to explain, but I highly recommend the cd.

Kaiulani is not just a performer but an artist on all fronts. She really goes there in her work... committed to bringing the richest elements of her core self to the table... and not settling for anything less. My favorite tracks are 1, beacaue it is clearly autobiographical- and then 5,6, and 7 which are the heart of the album for me... and inspire me into my own peace. When I have seen Kaiulani play live, I simultaneously want to hug her and be hugged by her. She just carrys that light, yo.

Kaiulani’s debut CD, Break Open, is one that I’ve put in my car’s CD player and have not been able to take it out! Her music is an eclectic blend of soulful and inspirational tunes reminiscent of Jewel, Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan, occasionally spiced up with a more playful, musical theater vibe. Fiona Apple comes to mind in songs like ‘Stained Princess’ and then with ‘Scored’, I could be listening to a Tony-award winning musical number. The uniquely complicated and beautiful music is so expressive in itself and yet only adds depth to the poignancy of the lyrics and Kaiulani’s crisp and delightful voice. It’s this seamless blend of intricacies that flavor this record with such vivid emotions. Kaiulani’s songs are ones that anyone can relate to. This CD can rejoice in your greatest celebrations and carry you through the toughest times. You also can’t miss her perform live! As a live performer, Kaiulani commands the stage as if she was born to be there. Her dynamic range lets us in on her most intimate moments as though she was singing in a room alone for just our ears, and yet in an instant it’s like she is on a vaudeville stage hamming it up for an audience of thousands. Favorite songs: ‘Witness’, ‘Out of the Nightmare’, ‘Break Open’ & ‘Stained Princess’. Listening to this album feels like a gift and I’m left feeling inspired and wanting more.

I got to see Kaiulani play at Hotel Café in June. Her presence was ethereal and intimate, and her performance was flawless. Break Open is no different. Complete, professional, and engaging albums are seldom made. This CD meets and expands the standards that we secretly carry when listening to music – the ones that are so rarely met. Kaiulani’s new album is true art, unadulterated and genuine. It is reflective and personal, and yet resoundingly universal. I think this CD was born from remarkable courage and deep generosity. Thank you Kaiulani.