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Anywhere I Lay My Head

(2008, Rock, by Scarlett Johansson, Label: Atco/Rhino Records)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 14.
  • Is it any good?

    2.0
  • Common Sense says

    Movie starlet does somber Waits covers.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–16

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Somber lyrics about some heavy issues such as abuse and disillusionment and a sorrowful sound make this album emotionally draining, especially for teens. Examples: On "I Never Wanna Grow Up" Johansson sings, "Well, when I see my parents fight/I don't wanna grow up/They all go out and drinking all night/and I don't wanna grow up/I'd rather stay here in my room/Nothin' out there but sad and gloom" and "Lay your head, where my heart used to be/Hold the earth above me/Lay down in the green grass/Remember when you loved me."
  • Violence:

    Not an issue.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Several songs have alcohol references although these references usually are in a negative context, such as one the song "Falling Down" ("Go on and take a swig/of that poison and like it/and don't ask for silverware/don't ask for nothing").
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Anywhere I Lay My Head

Parents need to know that this is an album of melancholy Tom Waits classics that often times deals with some pretty heavy issues, like alcoholism, abuse, and disillusionment. Mature topics are never taken lightly and subject matter that is often glamorized by pop culture, such as drinking, is explored in a more pessimistic and complex fashion. Johansson's vocals contribute the depressing tone on the album and although the content is straightforward and there's nothing really inappropriate for teens, this is definitely not a feel-good or pick-me-up collection.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why Johansson decided to make this album. She has received much criticism for her inexperienced skills as a musician and vocalist. Why do you think she was given the opportunity to make an entire album? Do you think a bad album will hurt her acting career or provide her with more publicity? Would the album receive the same amount of press if a movie star wasn't singing?

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title on for age 6 and give it 5.0

    I'm a big fan of Scarlett Johansson and this album just added to what she can do and what she can do well. This CD is not upbeat or happy but is still fun to listen to. Scarlett Johansson needs to keep making music. Her new single Relator is better than these songs and also features Pete Yorn which makes it all the better

  2. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0

    MUST LISTEN

    I think that too many people are over-analyzing this album because it's covers from a ledgend and I think when a person covers a ledgend they are subject to more comparisons and harsh judgements than average because of it. Just forget all that & listen, the detail the dedication to the music. Think of actor/musicians like Lindsey yuck Scarlet's the real deal.

  3. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 4.0

    Perhaps not for a 'casual' listener.

    Scarlett Johansson has starred in many box-office hits and flops, yet this will fall into neither category. Scarlett tackles Tom Waits incredibly difficult catalog. While more listenable to than Tom's signature growl, her voice can monotonous, like Nico meets Jesus and Mary Chain. That said, I'm huge Tom Waits fan and her version of "I Don't Wanna Grow Up" makes me wish that Tom or Joey Ramone will take over vocals. While there is not much issue with morals, I feel that the indie feel, intelligent lyrics, and interesting compositions make its social message honest, relatable, and intelligent.

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