2008 Kidz Music Reviews

August Music Reviews
albums from Jonathan Sprout & Sandra Boynton

American Heroes #3 & Blue Moo – 17 Jukebox Hits From Way Back Never

albums from Jonathan Sprout & Sandra Boynton, reviewed August 2008

Jonathan Sprout’s American Heroes #3 delivers another rich punchy packet of diversified heroes including Wilma Rudolph, George Washington Carver, Cesar Chavez, John Muir and Pocahontas to name just a few. The songs are hip and happening - finely produced and performed tributes to some brilliant folks who have left a strong imprint on our society. Perhaps America Heroes # 10 will have a nod to Jonathan Sprout! Yes indeed, learning can be a memorable experience.

American Heroes #3, Jonathan Sprout, Sprout Recordings, 2009; CD $13.98; www.jonsprout.com.  Buy American Heroes #3 at Kidzmusic.com

You’ve heard most of these artists a million times and you think you’ve heard the songs because they are customized to each artist’s style, but all the songs are originals written by Sandra Boynton and Michael Ford. These 17 terrific tunes that hearken back to the classic 50’s & 60’s songs that I remember all too well, will have you stuffing quarters (or was it nickels) into the modern jukebox of your choice. Ultra-selling songwriter, author and illustrator Boynton has another grand slam!

Blue Moo – 17 Jukebox Hits From Way Back Never, Sandra Boynton & Michael Ford, Rounder Records, 2008; CD $9.99; www.rounder.com.

Also check out:

Singin’ in Our Own Backyard, Jack Pearson, OtterTunity, Inc., 1995; CD $15.00; website www.jackpearson.org. “If ever there was a doubt that children’s music was evergreen, give this nicely written and performed collection of upbeat, infectious tunes a few good listens and you too will be a believer.” John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. 

Grandpa’s Car, Madeline L Pots, Madeline L Pots Recordings, 2008; CD $10.00; website www.madelinelpots.com. “Gentle, engaging folk-based songs for little ones who like to swing and sway and listen while they lay.” John Wood, Kidzmusic.com

After School Garage Band, Scott Wheatley, Completely Wheatley Records, 2009; CD $12.00; website www.scottwheatley.com. “Really cool rock songs and arrangements that will appeal to a wide age range including mom and dad and hip grandparents.”  John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.  

Radically Free, Doug Crandall, Tree Ring Binder Records, 2008; CD $12.00; website www.radicallyfree.net. “Nutritionally sound advice wrapped in engaging rock songs that will have kids second guessing their food choices and informing their peers and kin. Free teacher’s guide!" John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.