Chasing dreams and seeking a greater purpose is what drives brothers Chase and Carl Kauhane of Waimea, and drummer Chris Ward, as they write and produce music with their unique alternative sound. The Kauhane brothers grew up playing music together and turned their favorite past time in to a career in 2010 with their musical group, Life In Pursuit.
“Me and my brother grew up in Waimea and we loved to play music,” said Chase Kauhane. “Our father was a musician so we kind of got it from him. We don’t really play traditional Hawaiian music, but rather we took a different route with our alternative music.”
Since the origin of the band, Life In Pursuit has musically evolved into its unique sound, which is described as laid-back, rhythm-based acoustic rock with tinges of hip hop, reggae and blues. Joining forces in the songwriting process, the band members each bring their individual style to their original songwriting, ranging from serious and thoughtful to fun and uncomplicated.
“We play alternative music that’s a little rock and roll and a little Jack Johnson-ish,” said Kauhane. “All of us are born and raised here — me and my brother Carl and our drummer Chris Ward. In 2013, we made our first album and then played at Kauai Music Festival. In 2014, we made our second album and were nominated for best alternative album for the Na Hoku (Hanohano) Awards on Oahu.”
The band did more than just play for the Kauai Music Festival, their song, “Sister Song,” won best song at the Kauai Music Festival Songwriting Competition and caught the ear of famous producer Rupert Hine. This led the way to the trio’s album “Nickel &Dimin’ It” being nominated for a Na Hoku Hanohano Award.
Life In Pursuit continues to perform at local music venues throughout the state, but have started focusing more on songwriting and recording. They currently have two albums, “New Horizons,” a mostly-acoustic mix of original songs, and “Nickel &Dimin’ It,” a collection of more upbeat tunes including piano and guitar with a touch of blues and rap. They are currently working on their third album with producer, Charles Brotman.
Expect to see more of this young trio in upcoming years, as they’ve only begun to pursue their life’s dreams. Fans will enjoy the opportunity to see Life In Pursuit grow and evolve through their songs, their writings, and their performances.
Info: www.facebook.com/lifeinpursuit/ ■