Josh Lovelace and Friends Present: Young Folk is an album for the whole family with a nice, mellow atmosphere throughout including a few silly, fun songs. The collection is geared towards children by Josh Lovelace of the band NEEDTOBREATHE, who has been nominated for a Grammy. My favorite song on this album is You're My Very Best Friend because it is very sweet with good usage of backup vocals and it describes friendship quite well. It also tells me this is going to be different from other kids' albums with a much more sophisticated feeling to it.
Where this album really succeeds is in its broad appeal. There are one or two louder, repetitive tracks on the album you might find on your typical children's CD, but there are also more quiet, reflective pieces that parents will also enjoy. This is why I give this CD and age recommendation 4 to 15 and rate it 4 out of 5 stars. I think I might go back and listen to this one again. I recommend you listen to this album for its fun, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Reviewed by Benjamin P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
Josh Lovelace's Young Folk album is sweet candy for the ears and soul. It's like being wrapped in a warm blanket, staring with wonder at the night skies with someone you love. Love is the overriding theme in this wholesome family collection that talks directly to and not down to inquisitive little ones, with just the right touch of zany added to the mix. Lovelace and Friends' vocals are smooth and inviting as a summer day. Fine production and songwriting round out a lovely, gentle listening experience. It is very accessible for children and adults alike - striking just the right balance. The flow of the album is perfect with each song a nice surprise. Lovelace draws from his family observations as he treasures every moment through his art. Love of family and each other permeate the collection along with caring and sharing life experiences. The songs are perfectly constructed with the intended audience in mind and include a few gems for adults. I can't say enough good things about it. I love the vocals and instrument choices. I would hope that the listener would model awareness of the moments and observations of the world around us. I definitely give this 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 3 to 8. Reviewed by John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Music Specialist.
Josh Lovelace and Friends presents Young Folk is a rock n roll and folk-inspired collection of children's music the whole family can enjoy. This CD features 15 original songs written by Josh Lovelace, produced and recorded in his East Tennessee home. The record includes exciting guest appearances by Ellie Holcomb, Spirit Family Reunion and legendary children's recording artists Sharon & Bram. There are additional vocals by Josh's wife Whitney and his son Henry, age four. His daughter, Margo, lends her toddler talents in the form of baby coos and sound bites. The songs are inspired by Lovelace's personal experiences as a father of two. While some songs will have you rocking out, there are also a few incredibly smooth sleepy-time ballads. The cover artwork on the inner sleeve is a high quality, colorful portrayal of the Lovelace family enjoying music and picnic time. Included are pages of whimsical illustrations alongside the lyrics to each original track. Lovelace dedicates the album as a "love letter to my children" and the beautiful music and heartfelt lyrics prove that's exactly what it is. Reviewed by Eli Byerly, KIDS FIRST! Adult Reviewer
Josh Lovelace, Knoxville, Tennessee native and member of the Grammy Nominated rock band NEEDTOBREATHE, has been making music his entire life. As a young kid, he would sing songs and put on shows for his family and friends, pretending to be the world's next big superstar. Now, 33 with two kids of his own, he is reliving the spirit of those early years with a collection of children's music the whole family can enjoy. This CD features 15 original songs, written from Josh's experiences as a father. Produced and recorded in his East Tennessee home, the record includes guest appearances by Ben Rector, Ellie Holcomb, Spirit Family Reunion and legendary children's recording artists Sharon & Bram. There is something for every member of the family to enjoy!
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