Maybe by Next Year. Performed by Kid Pan Alley. CD. Approx. 32
min. Kid Pan Alley Music. 2021. CD: $14.98.
Grades 1-5
Kid
Pan Alley (Ryan Benyo and Paul Reisler) invited children to write lyrics about
their experiences during the past couple of years of social isolation, mask
wearing, and vaccines, which were formed into these 11 memorable songs. Although
no credits are given for the instrumentalists, the background music is an excellent
accompaniment to these pop songs. The professional vocalists include Natalia
Zukerman, Justin Roth, Darrell Scott, Kyle Davis, Randy Kaplan, Michael Lille,
Robbie Schaefer, Vanessa Bryan, Jen Jacobsen, Billy Jonas, and Ben Mason. In “The
Day the Stars Reached the Earth” listeners are encouraged to take care of the Earth.
“Maybe Next Year” I’ll be able to see your smile or frown. “Dead on Arrival” is
my social life until I get my vaccination. I’m “Staring Out My Window” and
dreaming of when I played with others at school or home. When the pandemic is over, I’m
going to “Tear My Mask” into little bitty pieces. “Small Things Make a
Difference” in a world where love shines through the darkness. The “Bridge to Peace”
is a foundation made of empathy, and a road paved with trust, support and
understanding. A bird singing in the window helped the
narrator realize there is “No Limit on Hope,” and the sunshine melted her
tears. “I’ve Got a Whole Lot to Say” but no one to say it to. “I Think I Blinked”
the day I learned the truth that I was adopted. Many are dreaming of the time
when we can be “Together Again” and we don’t have to stay six feet away. These
fine songs will reassure listeners that they are not alone in these trying
times.
Websites: https://www.kidpanalley.org/
