Here’s some improvisation I recorded one day on a standard Kamaka HF-3 tenor ukulele. The Kamaka tenor is a classic ukulele sound – for strumming of course, but also for single note lines. The strings are the stock Kamaka brand black nylon strings with a wound low G – the Kamaka nylon strings have a soothing, mellow, jazzy tone – but also some nice sparkle and definition. It’s a classic set that wears well. Hope you enjoy.
Tag Archives: fingerstyle ukulele
“Horn” Improv – Nick Drake Uke Cover
Here’s an improv around Nick Drake’s “Horn” I recorded one day between takes of another song I was working on. Appearing as a sort of interlude on the Pink Moon album, Horn is a fascinating little study of a song in its own right. I love the simple, atmospheric melody, and think it translated well to ukulele. Hope you enjoy.
Glass Ball Slack Key / Chicken in the Straw
From the vaults, Glass Ball Slack Key is a favorite chestnut (or kukui nut) of uke players throughout the islands. Also known as “Chicken in the Straw” or “Turkey in the Straw” in Hawai’i (though different from the Bluegrass / fiddle song), this is a fun little ditty that is sure to please aunty or uncle. I learned this song watching and listening to the great Led Ka’apana (it’s also on the classic Led Live CD). Many other ukulele players have covered the song over the years as well. Hope you enjoy.
Recorded in Holualoa, Hawai’i, 3/6/08.
Cannonball Rag – Ukulele Cover
From the vaults, here is a version of Cannonball Rag I improvised on the uke one day back in ’09. The uke is a little out of tune, but sometimes it’s hard to get those friction pegs to stick. Hope you enjoy.
Recorded in Holualoa, Hawai’i, 2/3/09.