Planting Seeds

PreS-Gr 4—Blending blues, folk, and swing tunes, Maria Sangiolo has come up with a "green" musical package of 19 songs that celebrates farms and the countryside on her fourth album for children. Whether singing her own compositions or those of others, Sangiolo is comfortable. Largely accompanied by acoustic guitars plus the occasional fiddle or bass, her beautiful, sweet, clear voice sparkles. Her vocals blend well with those of her guest performers and children, and her passion for and enjoyment of each song is apparent. A host of guest musicians appear on the disc, including Rani Arbo, Lui Collins, Alastair Moock, and SteveSongs. Highlights include "Dancin' in the Breeze" (a jazzy celebration of fruits and veggies found in the garden), "Eggs, Milk and Butter" (a lively, folksy number about foods for supper), "Baa Baa Bamba" (Valen's classic with new lyrics), "Compost Heap" (a rhythmic recipe to build a compost), "Maple Sweet" (an a cappella explanation of making syrup), and "Purple Tree" (featuring a quartet of solo and unison voices and piano). The arrangements are outstanding, and the musical collaborations give this work a real sense of community.—Stephanie Bange, Wright State University, Dayton, OH