As Hawaiian as it needs to be

The first-ever winner in the Grammy category of best Hawaiian music album went to the only nominee who was not born in the 50th state – and it arguably was the purest choice possible.

Last week, Charles Michael Brotman, who has lived in the islands since 1976, was bemoaning his role as the “clear underdog,” at least judging by the coverage in the Honolulu papers. “It’s a bit frustrating,” said Brotman, the producer of “Slack Key Guitar, Vol. 2,” a survey of slack key sounds by 10 virtuosos.

One reason for his underdog status was the presence of seminal Hawaiian music stars, such as the Cazimero Brothers, among the nominees. Still, “Slack Key” was the most rootsy CD in the race.

“It’s pure; no overdubs,” Brotman said. “If you like guitar and slack key, this is the CD.”