Kala
(2007, Dancehall/reggae, by M.I.A., Label: Interscope Records)
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Sassy feminism mixed with some 4-letter words.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 14–15
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Kala was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
Parents need to know that Maya Arulpragasm (aka M.I.A.) delights in throwing the usual four-letter words around in these rich, multilayered sound tapestries. There are also references to violence, product brand names, sexual encounters, and drugs and alcohol, delivered with such a sense of gleeful, self-empowering fun (not to mention no-nonsense feminism) that many may choose to overlook (or not even catch) the explicit content just this once.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- Families can talk about the concept of being multicultural, or "global." Maya is the daughter of British-based Sri Lankan refugees, and the album was recorded in India, Trinidad, Australia, London, New York, and Baltimore. What makes this CD sound "international"? Do you think that being raised in a different culture affects songwriting, musical arrangements, and social and political priorities? Can you guess which tracks were recorded in which cities or countries?
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More on Kala
What’s the Story?
On KALA, Maya Arulpragasam (aka M.I.A.) touches on street crime, religion, war, and all aspects of the party life. She's gleefully explicit and matter-of-factly feminist; raunchy and vulnerable. Her adventurous, "play-with-the-big-boys" attitude might be uncomfortable for some parents, but many families may find that this intense young artist delivers a welcome breath of fresh air -- despite her explicit (and sometimes violent) lyrics.
Is It Any Good?
Maya Arulpragasam's sophomore outing offers a layered tapestry of sound and rhythm. Recorded in several cities and continents, the album takes you on a rich, energetic world tour of international dance beats, while M.I.A skillfully weaves her lead vocals around lyrics that are poetic, imaginative, and visceral.
Music Details
Released on: 8/21/2007
Parental advisory: Yes, Edited version available: Yes
Parental advisory: Yes, Edited version available: Yes
Our Members Say
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Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title iffy and give it
Something fresh and different!
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I rate this title on and give it
Mostly Clean Fun
Some bad stuff but I would consider it clean. You really can't hear what the exact lyrics are, so bad lyrics aren't a problem. The beats and sound effects are really cool and ethnic.
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