Kindred

Kindred. Performed by Renee & Friends. CD. Approx. 30 min. Label: One Melody Records. 2019. Price: CD or download: $13.98.

Grades K and up

Soaring and heartfelt vocals, with beautiful harmonies, are the hallmark of these 11 outstanding songs, nine originals written by Renee Stahl and two covers. The songs are performed in several musical styles: rock folk, pop, soft shoe, and rap. Renee is joined by several guest vocalists, including Ziggy Marley, Lisa Loeb, Elizabeth Mitchell, Christ Stills, Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Jeremy Toback, and Jennifer Paskow. Several songs also feature children’s voices. Tom Rossi performs most of the background instruments, with assistance from other musicians on guitar, bass, upright bass, violin, cello, horns, drums, cymbals, and glockenspiel. Sung in a round, “Kindness” is cool. Those who want to change the “Super Fragile World” should also think about changing themselves. Ziggy Marley performs a wonderful cover of a Cat Stevens classic--“Where Do the Children Play?” The future “Leaders of the World” stand up for what they believe in. “Home” is the place I love. “Kindred” is family that makes one laugh when they’re feeling blue, and with whom one’s heart is free. “Nothing and No One” can  ever take away my love. An ant can’t move a rubber tree plant, but he has “High Hopes” in this cover of a classic Sammy Cahn tune. “Be Curious” about the big wide world. You can “Rely” on me. “How Did You Get So?” sweet, big, strong, smart, and beautiful, asks a mother of her child. This smooth and thoughtful album, so easy on the ears, will appeal as much to adults as to children.
Website: www.reneeandfriends.com