EVOLUTION (2010)

“Manoa DNA’s “Evolution” is all about development and change; or, if you will, evolution. While DNA (Dad Lloyd is the D, and sons Nick and Alex and the N and A) retain familiar contemporary rhythms while forging into fresh turf, letting the experience of living life and traveling come into play.”
-Wayne Harada, Star-Advertiser

EVOLUTION marks the third full U.S. release for MānoaDNA, and the first under their own label. Featuring local music legends like Tony Conjugacion, Chino Montero, and Vernon Sakata, EVOLUTION also features a new energy kick to the group’s sound: drums and electric guitar.

“A big complaint we get all the time is that our albums do not capture the energy of our live shows,” said Alex, “so by adding drums and electric guitar, we hope to add a lot more energy.”

They have not strayed too far from their acoustic roots, and again feature great cover songs by well-known artists. The album features a range of songs from Alex’s original love song, “Someone Like You” to Dad’s cover of Stephen Stills’ “Love the One Your With.” Pay particular attention to the song “Dreams Come Alive,” an original song written by Alex for his late grandfather. It’s a real tear-jerker.

Awards/Accolades:
-Contemporary Album of the Year Nominee (2011 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards)
-Group of the Year Nominee (2011 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards)
-Engineering Nominee (Milan Bertosa, 2011 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards)