Some years ago, Justin Roberts was a Montessori teacher
and music director, composing songs to musically interpret the school's curriculum
themes for the kids. From this he created his first children's recording, the
critically acclaimed "Great Big Sun". This latest release, "Yellow Bus", should
be headed down the same road.
That Roberts pays attention to the always-honest feedback from the kids who
participate in his performances is evident - not even one of the recording's
eleven tracks is weak. It's also apparent that Roberts has the heart of a child.
Kids don't need any warming-up period to accept these fresh, honest tunes. Parents
might, but only momentarily as they realign their expectations of what children's
music is all about.
Roberts' music sounds like a cross between Paul Simon, Kenny
Loggins, and
the BareNaked Ladies. There's nothing sticky sweet in his lyrics to have parents
running from the room (or wishing they could). The songs are put together in
such a way to be immediately understandable to children, and thought-provoking
and stirring for adults. The softer tracks are wonderfully honest - and honestly
sweet. All Eyes on You helps put worries to rest, and reminds parents
of the simple beauty of their children. Then there is Mama is Sad,
a heart-wrenching song about a child whose parents have divorced, the helplessness
he feels, and his desire to support his mother in the only ways he knows how.
After all, he'd give her the moon but "it's way too high".
The title's many upbeat tracks feature playful animals, simple messages, and
toe-tapping music. Willy the Whale entertains children not only with
kid-pleasing alliteration, but also a funny main character who tries to be
"wough
and tough" and only discovers happiness when he is true to himself. In the
Car is the one of the catchiest of the bunch, and is, not surprisingly,
an ideal bopping-along-in-the-car song.
Yellow Bus was a joy to review, and it's even found its way into
my CD-changer for listening on my own time. It makes me feel young again, which
can only be good.
Rating: 
