Sweetened by the sun

Hawaiian music has seen a major sales lift in the past 10 years. While many baby boomers still embrace the works of the great slack-key guitarists, younger generations are showing up in hordes for the many island-based artists who include California on their tour itineraries. Multitalented teacher, composer and musician Keola Beamer was the first Hawaiian artist to reach the Top 15 on the Billboard World Music Charts (with 1994’s Wooden Boat). Though sales numbers don’t always reflect talent, Beamer’s bark is equal to his bite. Although he still resides in Maui, Beamer’s visits to the continental United States draw capacity crowds who revere both his work ethic and song repertoire. Of course, a stop at the ol’ opera house out in the sticks is a must. Beamer plays the Palms Playhouse, located at 13 Main Street in Winters, on Friday at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. Visit www.palmsplayhouse.com for more info.