Bananaphone

Review

Common Sense Media says

A glimpse into why Raffi wins awards.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

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Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this album bundles educational elements into a very enjoyable package. In "C-a-n-a-d-a," children are introduced to the unique elements of the singer's homeland. "First Peoples" covers many First Nations by name and highlights key cultural values. The ecological theme that runs through "The Changing Garden..." and "Naturally" is especially thought-provoking.

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What's the story?

We catch a glimpse of Raffi's award-winning talent on BANANAPHONE. The title track and "The Gorilla Song" are musically infectious and lyrically ingenious while remaining simple enough for all to appreciate. "The World We Love" and "The Changing Garden of Mr. Bell" are sweet and gentle, and both inspire respect for the world in which we live. At a few points, though, the album loses a bit of its sparkle. Two instrumental cuts, "Spring Flowers" and "Dee Myth," seem out of place, and adaptations of such folk tunes as "Michael Row Your Boat Ashore" and "Down by the Riverside" are somewhat sluggish.

Is it any good?

 

Raffi's gift for soothing children was in evidence when one very active 4-year-old listener hit the brakes and decided it was time for a spontaneous rest. Raffi's warm, gentle tone is prevalent throughout BANANAPHONE.

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What families can talk about

Families can talk about the topics introduced, such as the culture of First Nations. A few of the songs can serve as a great introduction to the importance of being "green."

This review was written by Common Sense Media Editors

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This review was written by Common Sense Media Editors
Artist:Raffi
Release date:October 15, 1996
Labels:PGD, Rounder
Genre:Children's Music
Parental advisory:No
This review was written by Common Sense Media Editors
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.
OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.
Our child development rating guidelines

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