His latest, to be released Tuesday, is jammed with expression and invention in a myriad of styles and Fiji's take-charge technique continues to demand attention and attract fans. "Come on Over," with its R&B elements, could easily have Motown roots, until the midway point when Fiji throws in a hip-hop rap that socks it to the present. "Kamakana O Kalani," likewise, starts off as a soulful strut that's embellished with sweet choral backing, but evolves into a searing rap, returning to a blues tune — with a Hawaiian title, yet. "Warriors Prayer" is Fiji's take on "The Lord's Prayer," sort of, with altered lyrics along the way — which could provide strength and inspiration in some quarters.

"Xperience" should succeed at the cash register if Fiji can sustain visibility with periodic gigs that provide access to fans. And too bad the CD lacks vital liner lyrics to support the product.

Many of the tunes have had previous lives in other capable hands; Kahumoku's fingerings on his guitar, and his earnest, uncluttered vocals bring new resonance and expression to "Manu 'O'o," "Green Rose Hula," "Hi'ilawe," "Ka'a Ahi Kahului," "Wai'alae" and "E Aloha Mai."

Further, Kahumoku interprets two of his father's (George Kahumoku Jr.) originals, "Hale Ohu" and "He Pumehana I Ku'u Poli," reinforcing his roots, his heritage, his 'ohana and ultimately his 'aina. But he also shares an original in the title tune, a rhapsodic it's-a-new-dawn kind of instrumental ditty. Throughout this CD, there's an obvious bond to the land that he adores and old-school ethics — of projecting a very personal posture in defining his musicscape.

The group's sound is safe, melodic, precise — with the reggae back-beat dominating — fueled by the creative juices of Imua Garza, who composed nine of the 12 tracks, plus two with collaborators. And yes, his uke-strumming is omnipresent, along with lyrics that come from the heart.

When the beat is shelved, as on "I'm Yours," Garza waxes sentimentally, pulling at the heartstrings — with harmonic support from the group.