Raffi Albums (18)
What The Critics Say
Children's music superstar Raffi maintains his stellar standards on this charming 16-song album. Don't be fooled by the title, which is something of a misnomer: this isn't all play music. In fact, it covers a range of moods and subjects, not to mention genres.The bearded Pied Piper from Canada weaves together a selection of familiar covers and imaginative originals. There's a Celtic folk version of the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine," a delicate piano treatment of "Eensy Weensy Spider" (with an additional, Raffi-penned verse), and, in an interesting choice, an airy rendition of "What a Wonderful World." Among the original numbers, "Raining Like Magic" is sea-breeze calypso, "If You're Happy and You Know It" skips along on Chico Marx-style piano, and "It Takes a Village" is bright reggae with an important message. Reaching farther around the globe, "Tsetang Gangla (On the Playground)" is an adaptation of a traditional Tibetan children's song and the dreamy "May There Always Be Sunshine" alternates between English and Russian. Of special note are "Jane Jane," a bouncy tribute to Dr. Jane Goodall, who studied the chimps of Tanzania for 40 years, and the swingy title track with its nod to legendary jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. Instructive, tender, joyful, and thoughtful, this is vintage Raffi. Let's Play! comes with lyrics for all the songs. ~ Adrian Zupp, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Raffi Radio continues with the folksinger's basic gentle, melodic formula, adding a touch more rhythm to the mix. ~ Sara Sytsma, All Music Guide
'Raffi's Christmas Album'
Release Date 7/1/1991
Tracks 15
Label Universal Special Products
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
This is an essential collection that's perfect for kids and still enjoyable for adults. ~ David A. Milberg, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Raffi turns more to his own originals on this, his best collection, but also turns in excellent versions of traditional songs such as "Apples and Bananas" and claims some nominally adult songs such as "Octopus's Garden" for the children's market. For ages 4-9. ~ William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide
