HaleAmanO creates unique sound with reggae, blues, rock, soul

Summer's almost here, and few Vegas acts conjure up sunbaked vibes like reggae hybridists HaleAmanO. Time to soak up some good vibrations.

What does HaleAmanO sound like?

"HaleAmanO fuses reggae, blues, rock and soul together to create a unique sound. Our influences come from all around the world. Sometimes people say we sound like 'roller coaster reggae.' We use two guitars, bass, keyboards, two percussionists and ukulele."

Your founder, Ryan Fleming, was born in Hawaii. How does his background manifest itself in your music?

"Ryan is one of three songwriters featured on our upcoming new album. Israel Wa'ahila, born on the Big Island of Hawaii, is also featured as singer/songwriter on the album. Ryan sings and does 'ragga' both on the album and in our live shows. 'Ragga' is a style of rap that is used mostly in reggae music. Their background is the foundation of the type of reggae that we play, sometimes referred to as 'Jawaiian' or 'Island' reggae. Even our name 'HaleAmanO' comes from Hawaii, meaning 'House of the Sharks.' "

To the uninitiated, how would you characterize Island reggae?

"It's the type of reggae that surrounds you with good vibes. Musically, if you can hear the bubble of the organ and the skank of a ukulele, you're probably listening to Island reggae. If you've ever been to Hawaii or Jamaica, you've probably listened to Island reggae."

You're about to release your debut CD, "House of the Sharks," what can you tell us about it?

"HaleAmanO has been around for two-plus years and this is our first full-length album. 'House of the Sharks' is an eclectic collection of songs that, when you listen, they might make you feel as though you're on an island yourself. If soulful vocals are your thing, check out tracks 'Love Me For Me' or 'Hold Me In Your Arms.' If you like more traditional roots reggae music, listen to 'Sky Down' or 'Jah Souljah.' 'Recession' and 'I n I' are more politically charged tracks, but nothing controversial.

"Tidbits: We recorded here in Las Vegas with Brian Garth who plays in a local band called Black Camaro. We recorded live horns. Our album is going to be released June 5th at The Pond inside Green Valley Ranch. We will be playing there every other Saturday throughout summer."

Check out HaleAmanO at www.haleamano.com.

Contact reporter Jason Bracelin at jbracelin@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0476.