Bongo Boy Records – the preeminent music label for independent artists of any and all genres – offers another eclectic compilation packed with fresh and renowned talent. But this one? This one features especially playful, perhaps educational music specifically for kids (or rather, “kidz”).
Bongo Boy’s Kidz and Katz: Volume 2, a collection of children’s music, features 10 lighthearted songs written with fun, bouncy, and youthful exuberance. Will your kids start singing along after 1.5 plays? Will they demand this collection be played, very loudly, during every conceivable car ride? Yes, and here’s why:
The album kicks off with “Let’s Be Friends” by Wayne Olivieri and Gar Francis. This is an interesting sci-fi waltz with phasing organ and vocals (and an outer space sprinkling of Moog-ish arpeggios). The song’s narrator – an alien – simply wants to be friends, and honestly, I can’t imagine a child ever saying no.
Track #2, “Blue Cadillac” by Gar Francis, is a little more down to Earth (yes, I went there) with a blues-rock offering featuring distorted vocals, harmonica, and a gritty guitar that absolutely means business. Regardless of age, no one will refrain from spontaneous toe tapping after “Blue Cadillac” boldly pours from the car speakers.
“Crickets” by Tiki Cowboys lives on another Bongo Boy Records compilation (Backroom Blues Vol. 12, specifically), and I still love that quirky, phasing mandolin. For some reason, the song conjures images of Jim Carrey; he’s wearing a seriously over-exaggerated smile and bobbing his head to the left in awkward, uncomfortable spasms with each rhythmic strum. Maybe it’s just me?
Song #4, “Happy Today” by Monique Grimme, gives off a Sesame Street vibe. The tambourine, the accompanying vocals that are childlike? Yeah, I’m thinking about Big Bird, Mister Hooper, and probably Oscar the Grouch.
The fifth track, “Froggy” by Greg Guba, explains the importance of school and the necessary acceptance of differences. It’s simply Greg and his acoustic guitar – I picture him lying on a sofa, watching the fire dim, and singing some timeless golden rules.
Song #6, “Dog on the Rooftop” by Libra Sun Club, tells the story of a dog who, by unknown but perhaps extraordinary means, ended up on a rooftop. And although this might be cause for panic, the song drives home the situation’s inherent comedy.
Gar Francis is truly prolific, considering song #8 is his third entry here. And “How It’s Supposed to Be” features his lived-in vocals, that classic blues-based rock, and adept storytelling regarding simpler times. This is another fine offering from Mr. Gar Francis.
“Grace” from The Corridors is a more modern offering featuring some affecting vocals and piano. This piece may ingrain appreciation for more dramatic music; the kind that activates goosebumps more than the funny bone.
“Looking Back” by Kent Hanwell is a peaceful song featuring piano and cello. When the kids need to settle, this is the perfect relaxing agent.
And for the finale, we’re granted the soothing “Baby Don’t Cry” by Studeo. This is piano, vocals, and the sort of music that forgives, cradles, and lays to rest. A great offering from a group featured on another Bongo Boy Records collection (see: Bongo Boy TV – Season 12 Episode 4).
So, is it good?
Yes, and it’s GREAT for kids; it features the sort of lighthearted children’s fare you might expect, but also more serious songs that may grant children an overpowering urge to expand their budding musical tastes. Good stuff, and definitely a capable bridge to broaden musical horizons.
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BELOW: Listen to Bongo Boy’s Kidz and Katz: Volume 2 and check out Bongo Boy Records on several available social channels, and of course, their website. Please support Bongo Boy Records – and all their artists – by playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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