| 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. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that this short collection of songs is only iffy in a few spots and even then the questionable spots are pretty mild. Cyrus sings about driving to clubs and obsessing about certain boys on several songs. But in general, this is a group of songs OK for most any age, and positive lyrics about re-connecting with yourself and living life to the fullest can be found throughout.
Longer than a CD single, but shorter than an album, THE TIME OF OUR LIVES is Miley Cyrus's extended play, Walmart-exclusive release. Debuting at the same time as her Walmart clothing line collaboration with fashion designer Max Azria, this CD marks a bit of a departure for the pop-rock Disney sweetheart. Several songs have a hard rock edge and the album's promotion was linked to the infamous "pole dancing performance" and the 2009 Teen Choice Awards.
Who would have expected Miley Cyrus's tiptoe into pop relevancy to be so much fun. Moving beyond her Disney days, Cyrus lays the groundwork for a more mature, interesting and exciting sound. Tween party grooves are replaced by rock tracks like "The Time of Our Lives" and "Kicking and Screaming" which retain Cyrus's energy, but just add a little more attitude to the mix. On tracks like "Party in the U.S.A.," one of her most successful songs of her career thus far, Cyrus does a good job of embracing her famous pop princess past while exploring new territory. Although there are some ballads that bog down the up-tempo vibe, "When I Look At You" is a sincere, moving addition to the musical joyride.
Families can talk about how Miley Cyrus has changed her image and her music as she has grown up. Help kids adapt to changes in their beloved characters.
What do you think of the marketing strategy to sell this CD only at Walmart and at the same time as Cyrus's new clothing line? If you like the album, will you be more likely to buy an outfit from Cyrus's clothing line?
Do you think Miley's music is moving beyond Disney? Does this album sound more grown-up? If so, why? Do you think the singer will gain more fans if she branches out form her Disney sitcom image?
| Artist: | Miley Cyrus |
| Release date: | August 28, 2009 |
| Label: | Hollywood Records |
| Genre: | Pop |
| Parental advisory: | No |