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Nueva York (by Dan Zanes, Children's Music)

common sense media says

Spanish album is festive fun.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this album is Dan Zanes and Friends' first Spanish-language album and features songs drawn from the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Paraguay, and elsewhere.

Positive messages: Multi-cultural musical fun and caring for the Earth. Translation: "Care for the water/care for the water/Care for the water, care for it" and "Children of the world ask for bread and song/The end of wars, the end of sorrows."
Violence: Translation: "The witch catches me/she takes me to her house/Turns me into a flowerpot/and into a pumpkin."
Sex: Translation: "Give me your hand, dove/So I can get to your nest/They told me you were alone/And I came to be with you" and "To go up and let yourself fall/In the arms of a lady."
Language: Almost all in Spanish!
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
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More on Nueva York

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the historic concept of the U.S. as a melting pot, and the joy of exploring a variety of cultures through music. Kids in Spanish-speaking families will find the lyrics easy to hear and understand; Spanish students can practice vocabulary by singing along.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Grammy-winner Dan Zanes enlisted the aid of some very talented friends on his new children's CD, and the result is a collection of Spanish-language songs that employ a variety of Latin rhythms -- all energetic, danceable, and festive. The spirit of collaboration and friendship shines through, even on the few songs where Zanes is twisting his Anglo-sounding voice around Spanish lyrics and rhythms, creating a sound that's just a bit awkward.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
The standout tracks are those performed by Dan's amigas, especially Silvia Sierra and someone called "La Bruja" (the witch), whose rich delivery of "Pollito Chicken" contains some English lyrics, an irresistible rhythm section, and an improbable tale about learning Spanish by singing about chickens. Overall, it's delightful to see a popular artist stretch in this inclusive, multi-cultural direction while having so much danceable fun.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: June 10, 2008
Label: Festival Five Records
Genre: Children's Music
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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ON: Content is 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
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