Press:
"Global is the Carnival that gypsies would lay down their boots and pull up digs for...Early on, delights included the rollicking Blue Hulas at the Star Bar, who twanged their ukuleles to hilarious and highly danceable renditions of Lou Reed and Vanilla Ice. Nice."
-Tsunami Magazine
"Byron Bay has a bit of a thing with ukuleles (perhaps being the surf capital and the headquarters of the Ukulele Collective is the reason for this), and the Blue Hulas is a band that not only comes from Byron Bay, but also features Australia’s acknowledged Uke-Duke, Azo Bell. With Timorese frontman Benhur Helwend, Jamaican Harry Belafonte’s grand niece Renee Simone on sweet vocals, and Indonesian guitarist Adi Noersadi, this happy-go-lucky mob are a multicultural musical montage which had the punters dancing at each of their aloha-reggae shows (at the Bellingen Global Carnival 2009), covering Pink Floyd and Lou Reed classics in funky style”.
-Peter James Dawson, The Echo October 2009
"If you can imagine Lou Reed done with ukuleles, then you have a fraction of an idea of what the Mullumbimby Music Festival was about. Hawaiian-style local group the Blue Hulas were the perfect choice to kick off opening night...with their upbeat enthusiasm, lovely harmonies and a distinctly unique version of Walk on the Wildside." -Editor Michael McDonald, The Byron Shire Echo, November 2008
"Uke Beauty at The Rails...the cruisy island style beats of the Blue Hulas...infused with the contagious sounds of the 'weapon of mass affection' (that's the ukulele, in case you haven't heard) & driven by a pulsing rhythm section...will have you sweating and swaying to their tropical sounds. Don't miss this up and coming Byron Bay band!" -Mandy Nolan, The Byron Shire Echo, March 2008
"[The Blue Hulas] have a cruisy island sound that will have you chilling out and wanting to get lay-ed. With a lei silly. Flowers around the neck." -Mandy Nolan, The Byron Shire Echo, 2007
"There's something magic about the ukulele. It's a tiny instrument that creates big music - and a huge feel-good vibe. The Blue Hulas, our own local Island-style band, has a cruisy tropical sound that features the sweet voice of Benhur, accompanied by the angelic vocal styles of Renee Simone plus a hot rhythm section." -The Northern Rivers Echo, 2006
Weddings & Parties:
Just a short note to Thank you to the Blue Hulas for creating Magic on our very special day. From the moment i entered the room downstairs,people were telling me "what a great band, belle". My wishes were already fulfilled, I could feel the love in the room. Your music helped create a fun, loving and groovy vibe which instilled a heartfelt feeling that lasted the whole night. Thank you, people are still talking about "that band" and some are surprised at my good taste...and because of your professionalism I knew I had nothing to worry about. -Belle Power, 2010
"So effervescent" -Marg Bryant, Director, All Girls Surfriders Lennox Head
"The Blue Hulas played at our wedding and I truly believe it made the day....12 months on and people are still talking about it. All of the guests young and old absolutely loved the band members and their amazing music. We are planning a trip to Byron Bay just to hear you play again! -Clare Warner, 2009
"The Blue Hulas played a Hawaiian themed beach wedding I conducted at Little Wategos Beach in Byron Bay November, 2006. The performance was very heartfelt, had happy energy and was very 'Aloha' spirited, by this I mean it had a great community feel to it, just like the Hawaiian people have. I know my clients were thrilled with the Blue Hulas' performance...and also commented on the efficient and professional attitude towards their wedding; in the lead up to the wedding and on the day itself. I will always highly recommend them to my current and future clients." -Anthea Amore, Wedding Celebrant, Byron Bay
"I wanted to thank the Blue Hulas again for such an amazing end of summer/going away party! Everyone has been raving about the band all week and I just had the best time ever! I wish I could have it all over again…I wish the band all the success in the world and I look forward to the next time we have you to play (and there will be a next time!!!) -Holly Lane, Palm Beach, 2007
"For feel-good island style music, audience rapport & magical on stage chemistry that gets people leaping to their feet dancing with delight, the Blue Hulas definitely take the lei. The Blue Hulas have supported my dance group 'The Hulahines' at pubs, parties and corporate venues - they’re unfailingly reliable, professional, considerate, flexible & always a joy to work with. What I love most about these ambassadors of Aloha is their unique ability to blend in wherever they are - to tune into the special feeling of each event, formal or funky, & deliver an individual performance that enhances the occasion & makes it memorable. -Lilith Rocha, Journalist & hula dancer, Byron Bay
Giving Back to the Community:
"On behalf of the Byron Bay Rotary Club, I wish to thank The Blue Hulas for playing a great gig on Australia Day 2007 at the Byron Bay Surf Club. The quality and style of music contributed greatly toward what was ultimately the most successful Australia Day function for many years! Thank you The Hulas!" -Bruce Hammond, President, Byron Bay Rotary Club
"During A Taste of Byron Carnival 2006 the Blue Hulas were used for entertainment on the fringe of the main arena and around the Chocolate Bath. They were very crowd friendly and attracted groups of all ages. The Blue Hulas were extremely cooperative and a pleasure to work with. I would not only like to give them my recommendation but also my praise for their professionalism and assistance towards a great community event" -Sandy McKee, Former Director, A Taste of Byron Carnival
"In December, 2006 the Blue Hulas very generously donated their time participating in an event conducted by Byron United. The "Light Up Byron and Late Night Dining & Shopping Experience" on Friday 15th December was enhanced by the public entertainment provided by the Blue Hulas, who created a colourful and vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening. We commend the group to anyone as entertainers for the Byron Community" -Diana Liptrot, Executive Officer Byron United (formerly known as the Byron Chamber of Commerce)
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