Glass Candle

Glass Candle’s first “gig “was in Niu Valley at the neighborhood church potluck dinner. The 12-year-old members only knew one song, a surf instrumental composed by bassist Bruce Imai, so they played it twice. They progressed to Niu Intermediate School “canteen” dances, playing songs by the Young Rascals, Rolling Stones, Credence Clearwater Revival, etc.

A few years later, Bruce’s mom brought home the first record by the band “Chicago Transit Authority”. The ground breaking sound changed the direction of the band and a horn section was added. The band became known for taking on new and challenging music (Blood Sweat & Tears, Chicago, Dreams, Tower of Power) as well as hits of the day. During high school, band members were mostly from Kalani and Iolani. High school gyms and college dances were weekly engagements.

In 1973, Glass Candle auditioned for and won the dance spot at the newly re-opened Duke Kahanamoku’s (“Duke’s”) in the International Marketplace. They would follow the “Zulu” show nightly. Although they wouldn’t start until well after midnight, long lines and capacity crowds were customary. They soon also played the outer islands, opening the way for many other nightclub bands to follow.

In 1974 at Duke’s they began the first local “oldies” show, “Robbie and the Rockets”. Where are they today? Dale Nishikawa (Marcus and Associates, trombone) and John Morioka (Pacific Acquisitions, trumpet) are successful commercial real estate developers. Kurt Kaminaka (keyboards, vocals) director of Artzone, a visual and performing arts center. Bobby Gonzales (bass, vocals) lives and performs in Las Vegas. Ira Nepus (trombone) Studio musician in Los Angeles for countless movies. Tours the world with The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Numerous record credits including Diana Krall and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Larry Trela (trumpet) band director, King Middle School, Bruce Imai (bass, vocals) computer designer, Silicon Valley Dirk Van Nordheim (sax, vocals) performs in Los Angeles area with his children. The late Frank Marcella (drums) was a successful musician in Taiwan after a long standing gig with Sonya Mendez’ Revolucion at The Wave Waikiki. Doug Rivera (vocals) lives in Florida. Robert Shinoda (musical director, guitar) Guitarist, arranger, composer, producer for shows, recordings, TV, film scores. Leader of Nueva Vida band.

Performing at this year’s “Nightclub Band Reunion”:
Bobby Gonzales, Kurt Kaminaka, Bruce Imai, George Do, John Morioka, Doug Rivera & Robert Shinoda with a little help from our friends! (you!) Mahalo, and hope to see you there!