cELLAbration! A Tribute to Ella Jenkins (by Various Artists, Children's Music)

C"ELLA"BRATION! A TRIBUTE TO ELLA JENKINS contains a liner note from producers Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer: "It is with love, honor, respect, and a large measure of fun that we bring together many of today's finest folk, children's, and family performers with a delightful children's choral ensemble to pay tribute to a master and mentor. Thank you, Ella." Performers include Tom Chapin and Pete Seeger, along with accomplished musicians and the University Park Children's Ensemble. Sweet Honey in the Rock's rich rendition of "Did You Feed My Cow?" draws on spiritual, gospel, and jazz. Tom Paxton's "I Know a Tom" -- "Tom Thumb, Tom Sawyer, Tom Foolery," -- is hilarious with hand claps, mouth pops, and a little help from his grandsons.

The album takes the listener around the world, from the Swahili "hello" in Red Grammer's "Jambo" to the Latin rhythms of Mariachi Los Camperos to Mike Stein's violin in "Rushing Around Russia." The productions are just right with a variety of instrumentation and nothing overdone. Jenkins' songs have light that shines through every reinvention. With a delicious mix of musical styles and cultural references, the album lifts the spirit and satisfies the ear.

Released on: September 21, 2004
Label: Smithsonian Folkways
Genre: Children's Music