Under the Big Umbrella

Under the Big Umbrella. Performed by Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could. CD. Approx. 41 min. Label: Bangin’ Out a Melody Music. 2019. CD: $12.19; Digital: $9.49.

K-Gr 5

Grammy nominee Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could perform 12 songs, including four covers, that encourage individuality, kindness, and compassion, in Caribbean, rock, country and pop musical styles. Guitar, mandolin, bass, keyboards, accordion, drums, and an enthusiastic children’s chorus backup these lively and catchy tunes. After greetings in several languages, people are asked to meet “Under the Big Umbrella” where there are all kinds of friendly folks. “The Smile Shop” is open with rows and aisles of smiles. Each kind act is a “Drop in the Bucket,” such as complimenting and including people. If everyone looked the same, wore the same clothes, and liked the same foods, that would be boring, but “Different Is Beautiful (Like a Rainbow).” In “Stick Up Stand,” friends stand up for each other, such as standing up against bullies.  With a completely different tune, “Different Is Beautiful (Yeah, Yeah, Yeah)” also celebrates individuality. Don’t copy others and “You Do You” by just being yourself. “Thank You for Being You” and for making the world a better place to dream, for showing the world how to be yourself, and for teaching the world how to take a stand. The band covers Jimmy Cliff’s “You Can Get It If You Really Want” (with adapted lyrics about overcoming obstacles), Woody Guthrie’s “Don’t You Push Me Down” (featuring Sonia De Los Santos singing the lyrics in Spanish), Diana Ross’s “I’m Coming Out," and the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends” (featuring David Gibb). A rip-roaring, energetic album that will have listeners dancing and singing along.

Website: www.bradyrymer.com