Family Tree

Review

Common Sense Media says

Simple songs delivered with folksy charm.
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 very young kids will enjoy Frances England's gentle songs about family life, animals, and friendship, but older siblings and parents may find one or two listens to be plenty.

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What's the story?

Frances England, independent children's recording artist and sole winner of the 2007 Oppenheim Platinum Music Award, is back with her second collection of folksy, friendly songs for kids. FAMILY TREE will appeal to young kids who are fond of animals, and/or those who are figuring out friendships and family relationships. The title song lovingly describes a family's new baby from a kid's point of view.

Is it any good?

 

Musicianship on this CD is inconsistent -- sometimes excellent, sometimes amateurish. In general, the songs that stick to very simple, acoustic arrangements work the best; a rhythm section hangs in gamely, but with none of the finesse needed to support England's vocals. One highlight, "Don't Fly Away," features simple finger-picked banjo, a bit of irresistible whistling, and a lilting melody well-suited to England's thin, expressive voice -- plus, it's about bugs! The weakest track by far is "Fast Train to Grandma's," a rambling ditty backed by monotonous rhythm-guitar strumming that shows neither singer nor guitarist off to best advantage.

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What families can talk about

Families can talk about the song "Family Tree," about a new baby joining the family. This can be a complicated time for older brothers and sisters. How did/would you feel about a new baby? Can you write your own song about your feelings?

This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark

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This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
Artist:Frances England
Release date:May 25, 2008
Label:Big Kid Productions
Genre:Children's Music
Parental advisory:No
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 

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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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