Rhythm Bears

PreS-Gr 2—Award-winning performer Rodney Lee wrote all but two of the songs on his third album. His was inspired by research that indicated that keeping a steady beat improves language development in children. In addition, he introduces children to various musical instruments, including acoustic guitar and bass, Dobro, banjo, violin, ukulele, piano, organ, clarinet, harmonica, didgeridoo, kalimba, jugs, and drums. Musical styles include funk, soul, pop, and jazz with a country twist. Several of the numbers have rhythmic call and response games in this soulful folk hoedown. The rhythmic games feature hand clapping, foot stomping, shaker shaking, drumming, and blowing on empty water bottles. Among the songs are "Rhythm of Life," "The Why Song," "Teddy Bear's Picnic," "I Can," "I Do But I Don't," "Little Bear Interlude," "Kalimba," "The Train Song," "Say & Play," "Virtue of the Small," and "This Old Bear"(an adaptation of the traditional "This Old Man"). With its excellent musical performances and the interactive songs, this album will be a valuable addition to children's music collections in libraries and schools.—Beverly Wrigglesworth, San Antonio Public Library, TX