Troy Fernandez to perform Kaʻau Crater Boys catalog at Blue Note Hawaii

Musical audiences in Waikīkī can hear the full catalog of the Kaʻau Crater Boys again on October 29 and 30 at Blue Note Hawaii. The two-night event marks a return to the stage for Troy Fernandez, who is performing under the banner "Kaʻau Crater Boys: The Second Chapter."

Fernandez formed the duo with Ernie Cruz, Jr., in the early 1990s. The pair released five albums and performed for thousands of fans before parting ways in 1997 to pursue separate projects. They did not reunite during their lifetimes. Cruz, Jr. died in 2016 while bodysurfing at Sandy Beach.

For the upcoming shows, Fernandez will be joined by local musicians. The group will perform the classic songs from the duo's recorded work. Fernandez described the project as a way to preserve the music and the memory of his late partner.

"I think it's best to try to carry on the legacy that me and Ernie started, instead of just letting it die," Fernandez said.

Fernandez said he spent the time since the 1997 split focusing on his family. He lived in California for a period but maintained a desire to reunite with Cruz, Jr. He recalled urging his former partner to return to the stage on multiple occasions.

"I kept telling Ernie over and over, I mean, so many times, come on, Ernie, let's get back together," Fernandez said. He added that Cruz, Jr.'s best friend informed him shortly before the musician's death that Cruz was ready to rejoin the band.

Fernandez spoke of Cruz, Jr.'s vocal ability during their years together. "He was the best singer in Hawaiʻi when we were together," Fernandez said. "I used to always tell him, 'Ernie, you're the best singer. I don't think there's anybody better than you.'"