CD Review: Jonathan Sprout's 'American Heroes #4'

Jonathan Sprout
American Heroes #4
Self-Release

Jonathan Sprout's tenth release, American Heroes #4, celebrates historical information in a musical and educational setting for children. The eleven-track release brings to life the historical significance of several, notable icons, including Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Mary McLeod Bethune, William Penn, Rachel Carson, Juliette Gordon Low, Samantha Smith, Roberto Clemente, Theodore Suess Geisel, and Walt Disney. Jonathan incorporates a soft rock, jazzy, lounge, and pop-focused approach that is fun, playful, and educational. However, the music is largely focused on the children, but that shouldn't discourage parents and others from singing along. "I See A Hero" is a lovely ballad with a soft beat and inspirational lyrics. "E=mc2" is an homage to Einstein with power pop and rock elements that are anything but ho-hum. "Come With Me!" is a dance-inspired tune with a colonial-inspired edge. "Through The Eyes Of A Child" is a catchy rock/pop ballad with uplifting vocals and sweeping piano elements. Overall, the music is upbeat and intelligent with catchy hooks and a meaningful message that everyone will enjoy. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Uncle Devin Show's 'Drum Tales!'

Uncle Devin Show
Drum Tales!
Self-Release

The Washington, DC-based educator, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Uncle Devin, brings us a talented mix of ten songs that target younger viewers and listeners. As a children's album, the music is rather innovative and adult-oriented with occasional rap, spoken word, and helium-enriched vocals that get a message across without confusing listeners. The songs touch on social topics of Internet usage, healthy eating/living, days that don't go right, and doing what's right. Some of the songs, especially "Tell The Truth" and "Good Health Final," incorporate dance and electronic elements that stem from keyboard grooves of Eastern Africa. There are some vocal introductions to the percussion on "Drum Roll Call" that are engaging and performative. There are even scat vocals that mimic the percussive sounds. This is part African, South American, and North American. There are lessons in counting, language formation, and dance instruction. The quirky and comedic "I Like Onions" contains instructional learning about one of the most unlikely vegetables to make it in a song, but Uncle Devin succeeds with lead vocals, percussive tones, and munchkin-like vocals. Overall, the music is rather productive with varied vocals, spoken segments, varied percussion, multi-ethnic musical styles, and great lyrics. This one will be a favorite for parents, but the children will get a bigger kick out of the music. I give it five tiny fingers up! ~ Matthew Forss