Hot Pepper!

by Maesyn

Every Hawaiian loves a homegrown musical success story.

(Who better to carry forth the island vibe to the world?)

Come and celebrate your culture Friday, December 17th, with your local band-gone-global, Pepper.

Pepper is composed of three members, all of whom are surfers from Kailua-Kona on Hawai‘i. A funky, spunky crew, they create island-influenced music in the vein of pop, reggae and rock.

While the band has played all over the world on the Warp Tour, their roots remain entrenched in Hawaiian culture. A tribute to their homeland, they are calling this their “Volcanic Rock Out Tour.”

Well known for their impeccable harmonies and infectious rhythms, you will be guaranteed to dance, sing, and get elevated with the musical playfulness and funk of the tight three person crew.

The founding members met in middle school: guitarist/vocalist Kaleo Wassman, and bassist/vocalist Bret Bollinger. They were heavily influenced by Hawaiian icons Gabby Pahinui and Israel Kamakawiwoʻole.

After auditioning and casting off drummers like wildfire, the ambitious duo found drummer Yesod Williams. Once the rhythm section clicked into place, the band was off and running, touring with major acts like Shaggy, Snoop Dog, and Slightly Stoopid. They played the Warp Tour and made a name for themselves almost immediately in the scene.

To date, Pepper has released five studio albums, and one live album. Through their own label, Law Records, they independently sold over half a million records. Their new singles, “Wake Up” and “Mirror” have been getting lots of attention.

Opening up the night and warming up the audience will be Mishka, a fellow Hawaiian surfer musician.

The show will take place outdoors on the lawn at the MACC. Gates open at 5:30, and the show starts at 7 pm.

Tickets are $25 in advance, and $30 on the day of the show.

Buy tickets at the box office or by going to www.mauiarts.org