Born from a simple act of love, Lolo Paniolo blends island roots with gritty Americana and surfy twang. Founders Joe Freeman and Micah Albao, 90s rock veterans, began playing live music for their wives’ hula performances with Encinitas-based Kehulili O Kailani—and never looked back. They dove deep into Hawaiian traditions, fusing them with rock, and formed a band with Peter Hix (lap steel/guitar/ukulele), Ryan Green (bass), and powerhouse vocalist Ciara Atencio. Today, Lolo Paniolo honors Hawaiian music while pushing its boundaries, performing across San Diego at venues, festivals, and cultural events. Think hula in cowboy boots—aloha with attitude.
Born from a simple act of love, Lolo Paniolo blends island roots with gritty Americana and surfy twang. Founders Joe Freeman and Micah Albao, 90s rock veterans, began playing live music for their wives’ hula performances with Encinitas-based Kehulili O Kailani—and never looked back. They dove deep into Hawaiian traditions, fusing them with rock, and formed a band with Peter Hix (lap steel/guitar/ukulele), Ryan Green (bass), and powerhouse vocalist Ciara Atencio. Today,...