Emma by Emma Veary: A Pacific Gem That Still Shines (Mostly)
Let’s get one thing straight—1978 wasn’t exactly the year of Spotify playlists and TikTok trends. Nope, back then, you had to physically own music if you wanted to hear it more than once. And let me tell you, Emma Veary’s self-titled album Emma is a slice of paradise pressed onto vinyl. Released under the Music Of Polynesia label, this Folk, World, & Country masterpiece leans heavily into its Pacific roots, delivering an experience that feels like sipping coconut water on a beach while someone hands you a lei.
Now, I’m not gonna pretend every track knocked my socks off—I mean, who am I kidding? Socks are staying firmly on—but there were definitely some standouts. Take “Sands Of Waikiki,” for instance. This tune hits you with all the nostalgia of a sepia-toned postcard. It’s got that breezy vibe that makes your brain go, “Ah yes, life is simple and beautiful.” Then there’s “Hawaiian Wedding Song,” which might as well come with a warning label: “May cause spontaneous daydreams about tropical ceremonies.” Seriously, though, it’s so smooth and tender that even your grumpy uncle would crack a smile at a wedding.
The rest of the album keeps things chill but meaningful. Tracks like “Song For Likelike” and “Paoakalani” feel deeply personal, almost like Emma’s whispering family secrets through her voice. Meanwhile, “Naughty Hula Eyes” sneaks in just enough sass to keep things interesting. You can practically picture hula dancers winking at tourists during this one.
What sticks with me most about Emma isn’t just the music—it’s how authentic it feels. In a world where everything seems filtered and Photoshopped to death, this album reminds us what real art sounds like. Sure, it’s from 1978, and yeah, maybe the production quality screams "analog," but that’s kind of the charm.
Here’s the kicker: listening to Emma made me realize something weird. These songs aren’t just about Hawaii—they’re love letters to connection itself. Whether it’s between people, places, or memories, Emma Veary captures it all without trying too hard. So next time you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for your avocado toast, throw this album on. Who knows? You might find yourself booking a flight to Honolulu—or at least dreaming about it.
Oh, and fun fact: I still can’t pronounce “Kaiulai” correctly. But hey, isn’t that half the fun?
