One may debate anything but taste.
I prefer vocals and performers who vocalize, just as I prefer to play and sing over playing by itself. I'm not going to let an opportunity to see Jake or any of the other instrumentalists pass. What they draw out of our instrument goes far beyond my imagination. How else will I stretch my imagination to reveal new possibilities? Once I could not imagine playing above the 5th fret. Now I can. What will be next?
I live in a ukulele desert. Clearing the decks for any performer becomes pretty important. This does not mean that Jake's good and Aldrine isn't. They are different performers. Each takes his playing to the edges of his own imagination and talent. It's a win-win in my opinion.
I'm hoping to check out as much music as I can during my short stay on Oahu in July. Most of my time will be on Kauai. Just hitting Oahu for the festival really and four days at the Aulani for James. Mika got an incredible rate, better than Kama aina I think.