Pilioha is a Hawaiian music trio from the island of O‘ahu. Originally started in the early ‘90’s as a duo, first cousins Glenn Mayeda Jr. (bass) and Gary “Kalehua” Krug Jr. (rhythm guitar) always longed for the right person to blend not only with their music but also with their warm personalities. What they eventually found in 2001, was a young and talented lead guitarist, Kamuela Kimokeo, who not only gelled with them musically, but fit in as if he were a younger brother.
The name Pilioha literally means “a family relationship.” It is not only a fitting description of the trio, but a reminder to them of how important their relationship is with one another, as well as with their families. This understanding and support of one another, their families, and friends is reflected in the balance and harmony of their music.
Glenn is a certified D.O.E teacher, Kalehua is a University specialist, and Kamuela has Bachelor’s in Music and has recently been accepted into a Masters in Education Cohert at UH Manoa. This in turn binds the group together due to their common interests in teaching, Hawaiian culture and music and has led to successes such as a first place finish in Ka Himeni Ana 2006.
To describe a genre of Hawaiian music that Pilioha perpetuates would be hard to do, due to the wide range of their repertoire. Each of these gentlemen possesses lead vocal qualities, both in Hawaiian falsetto and in regular voices. Instrumentally, all are versatile. Some have labeled their music to be much like the music of the Hui Ohana, one of Hawaii’s all time favorite groups. It is no surprise, as Ledward Kaapana, the guitar virtuoso of the Hui Ohana, has helped each member. Other mentors have included the Mākaha Sons, Jerry Santos, Kelly Boy Delima, Mark Yim (formerly of the Peter Moon Band) and other notables throughout Hawaii’s music community. This mentoring has helped the trio to be self-sufficient, starting up their own independent recording label and production company.
In the Spring of 2007 the trio released their debut album self-entitled “Pilioha” that earned them 2 nominations at the 2008 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards for Most Promising Artist and Group of the Year.
You can find the trio at various public events throughout the islands, but more regularly at The Aku Bone Lounge and Grill on Wednesday evenings from 8 - 10pm.
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