In the early 1990s, a fresh acoustic sound emerged from Honolulu’s Pālolo Valley that transformed contemporary island music forever. Originally performing together under the name “E.T.” (Ernie and Troy) before taking their name from the crater above their neighborhood, Troy Fernandez and the late Ernie Cruz Jr. crafted a signature blend of soulful vocals and high-energy ‘ukulele picking that captured the heart of Hawai‘i.

Across landmark albums like Tropical Hawaiian Day, Valley Style, On Fire!, and Making Waves, the multi-Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning duo created an enduring catalog of music deeply connected to island life and surf culture.

At the center of that iconic sound is ‘ukulele master Troy Fernandez. Having made his professional debut at just 13 years old, Troy’s lightning-fast, innovative playing style redefined what the four-string instrument could do—sparking an island-wide ‘ukulele resurgence and inspiring generations of players, including virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro.

With Ka‘au Crater Boys – The Second Chapter, Troy Fernandez takes the stage at Blue Note Hawai‘i to honor the duo's shared Pālolo roots, bringing their cherished musical legacy forward and delivering the legendary songs that defined a generation.