STYLE: MOR / Soft Pop RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 43866-13498 LABEL: Decani Music 11151 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Simon Redfern
Bernadette Farrell is best known for the liturgical music she has composed since the 1970s and here she brings us a collection of songs aimed squarely at younger kids, being sung by a choir of around 30 or so children from Portland, Oregon (USA). There are two discs in the set, the first of which contains 14 largely piano accompanied songs followed by instrumental versions of the same so kids can sing along karaoke style. The second is a DVD which has visual performances especially aimed at those with hearing difficulties, using both British and American Sign Language; what a great idea that is! The album starts well with "Sing For Joy" which is very short, quite catchy and simple which kids can easily pick up. "Listen To Jesus" follows and which sadly loses the catchiness of the opening track and quickly dips into a far more traditional style both in its musical and lyrical content, heading further down that road with "God's Greatest Gift". The odd lighter moment does come in the shape of the title track, but overall the material seems better suited for adults. It is a pity there are not more accessible tunes for kids to latch on to as I think these also do more to showcase the choir's excellent vocal talents. Although I find it hard to argue with the lyrics and the message, I think it would be difficult for them to strike a chord with all but kids from the most traditional backgrounds.
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