Ella Jenkins

Ella Jenkins does what she does very well, and this record, aimed at kids between the ages of three and eight, is a joy. However, the title is only partly true. It's probably more about language than culture, be it the Spanish of "Ya Se Van los Pastores" or the patois of "Day-O." It's really the songs in English that explore cultures somewhat, from the Irish sensibilities of "I Lived in Ireland" to "North American Tribes" or the African-American areas of "Walking Around in Bronzeville" and a pair of blues numbers. That said, it's a lot of fun (even if the violin version of "Yellow Bird" ends up sounding like the Portsmouth Sinfonia), and for younger children it's something of an adventure. Jenkins is a strong communicator, able to engage young minds (without ever talking down to them) and involving them, even on disc. Her first all-new record in four years, and well worth the wait. ~ Chris Nickson, All Music Guide