Raymond Kane

Ki' Ho' Alu: That's Slack Key Guitar

Susan Friedman presents a captivating documentary that showcases the Slack Key guitar and a cultural style that is unique to Hawaii. This compelling film is a story told not by a narrator, but by the impressive roster of artists and characters telling of the changes within Hawaiian cultural life, and discussing why this particular musical approach has remained so vital and quintessentially Hawaiian.

The film is centred around musician Raymond Kane, a man who holds a special place in the domain of the Slack Key guitar. The style itself is named after the tendency to detune the guitar to suit the song, creating a 'down home' warmth and feeling.
Over four years in the making, this film, with its infectious music, its fascinating main character, and its rich visual qualities, will be an important document of Hawaiian culture to share with contemporary audiences.