“On the 15 songs here Cali showcases her solid uke chops (both strumming and picking) and her warm and friendly vocals. A clutch of standards share the CD with some well-crafted and hummable originals. Highlights include the title song, Cole Porter’s ‘True Love,’ ‘On Green Dolphin Street,’ ‘Soup Du Jour,’ ‘Enjoy Yourself’ and a swingin’ version of the Andy Griffith TV Theme songs with her uke licks standing in for the famous whistle. Other top tracks are her songs ‘Happy Ever After? No Such Ting’ and ‘Maui Nights.’ Expertly produced by Rick Cunha with a supporting cast of fine studio musicians, this CD is a gem.” [Flea Market Music]
— Jim Beloff, Flea Market Music
“Cali, I wanted you to know directly that I find your current CD a wonderful pleasure to hear. My enjoyment began with the first bar of “Are You Having Fun!” Yes!
— Ernie S.
Cali Rose shows her versatility with this CD. She strums, picks, and sings her way into your heart with a combination of fun little ditties, love songs, and a few classics. I love “True Love,” “Beautiful, Beautiful Hanalei,” and “Soup Du Jour.” Those three songs were just wonderful. Kudos to Jim Beloff and Herb Ohta for “Soup Du Jour.” That was the highlight of the album. I do want to acknowledge Cali Rose’s “Home Is Where I Set My Tushie Down.” It is a tune with cute lyrics and a meaning that is inspirational. This CD was a very nice mix of tunes and styles. If you like upbeat, positive, happy songs, this CD is for you. Read the entire review (in PDF) from Ukulele Player Magazine, Issue 7, August 2009
— Ukulele Player, Aug 2009
I just wanted to let you know that your two albums I bought are helping me reach my new fitness goal. I am in the process of getting my health and physique back to when I started to be a flight attendant almost 30 years ago. I listen to those lovely quirky fun songs and your beautiful voice and uke playing and my workout is so much more fun! I already lost 15 lbs…
—T.R.
Note: This album was nominated for Best Adult Contemporary Album in the 2009 Hawaii Music Awards. It didn’t win and some folks were a little upset about that, like Ric Douglas, who wrote me the message below…
8 things That Can’t Be Robbed From Cali Are:
- Classiness
- Grace
- Musicianship
- Poise
- Talent
- Positive Attitude
- Beauty
- Craig (Cali’s husband)
…in no particular order
— Anon
“I listened to your CD on the way to work this morning and also as I was out doing errands at lunch. It’s great – I was smiling the whole time I was listening. It’s got great compositions, great singing, great musicianship and it’s very well produced. Unfortunately, it’s had a huge psychological impact on me. My letter of resignation has been submitted and I will be in Maui until further notice.”
— Mike S.
“Congratulations on your success. You are putting smiles on people’s faces far and wide. What pleasure–and humor. I tell you, my tush is happier for having listened.”
— Diane V.
“Cali Rose has contributed her CD “Are You Having Any Fun?” as a door prize. If you aren’t having any fun, you will be when you listen to her sing and play the ukulele. Funny, ironic and too cool to conga! This is what the uke is all about, thanks Cali!”
— Cathy of Crossroads Ukulele Festival
We just got your CD in the mail! What a wonderful production, and you are as good as they get!! Thank you SO much for sending it to us… We’ll do some more listening, but so far our favourite is “Maui Nights.”
— Bosko and Honey
“…a sweet and simple joy to listen to. What an uplifting array of music and lyric. I am so impressed with your originals, your poetry, singing, and with your ukulele playing! It’s a first class production, and I wish you all the success that you have merited in the sales and distribution.”
— Emerson P.