Aloha-Hoa-He (Sansibar)

Achim Reichel's song "Aloha-Hoa-He (Sansibar)" is a nostalgic and vivid recount of a sailor's journey to the exotic and idyllic island of Sansibar. The lyrics paint a picture of a world traveler who has seen many places, from Singapore to Aberdeen, but finds Sansibar to be the most enchanting of all. The song begins with the hardships of the voyage, describing the grueling ten-week journey filled with deck scrubbing, cursing the world, and enduring the harsh elements of the sea. This sets the stage for the stark contrast that follows upon reaching Sansibar.

Upon arrival, the sailor is greeted by a serene and heavenly scene, with the sun standing high in the sky and a sense of peace enveloping the atmosphere. The sight of thousands of boats approaching, filled with men and women whose bodies glisten in the sun, creates a dreamlike and almost surreal image. The song they sing is familiar yet unique, adding to the mystical and enchanting aura of the place. This moment of arrival and the subsequent celebration with laughter and flower garlands thrown aboard captures the essence of a paradise found after a long and arduous journey.

The song also reflects on the time period, around 1910, adding a historical context to the narrative. The mention of the crew's health and the playful reference to the ship's officers adds a touch of humor and realism to the otherwise idyllic portrayal. The repeated chant of "ALOA-HEA-HEA" throughout the song serves as a joyful and rhythmic reminder of the sailor's unforgettable experience in Sansibar. Achim Reichel's storytelling through music transports listeners to a time and place where the beauty of discovery and the joy of human connection are celebrated in a timeless manner.