Rock & Rhyme
Self-Released, 2018
8/10
A husband and wife duo from the Washington, D.C. area, Jon and Carrie Lewis return with a 3rd album of family friendly fun with a large batch of tunes that involve counting, dancing, singing, and a whole bunch of other enjoyable activities full of their contagious energy.
The title track starts the album with a hand clapping good time as upbeat sounds pair well with the quick strumming, and “Dance Party” continues the setting with plenty of rhythm and melody in the festive delivery that brings in an organ.
With 20 tracks, the album offers much variety, including the playful keys of Carrie on the theatric “Going On A Bear Hunt”, while the whistling and jangly approach of “Clean Up” builds into an anthemic display of frisky, timeless charm.
Elsewhere, “Alphabet Song” offers a fuller tune where keys and guitars fuel the folk-rock like climate, and “Hermit Crab Going On A Walk” goes the opposite direction with a sparse, cute story that the young ears will adore.
Near the end, “Summer Rain” recruits strong, moving vocals from Carrie in the warm, piano fueled balladry, and “George Is Asleep” finishes out the listen with Mr. Jon and George the monkey having a cute conversation that points towards Jon’s talent as an ventriloquist.
There’s an impressive amount of players lending a hand here, including Ben Shive, Jennifer Condos, Jay Bellerose, and David Piltch, and together they pen a feel good record that’s perfect for the kid in everyone who appreciates variety and playful storytelling.
Travels well with: Rainbow Rock Band- Total Eclipse Of The Rainbow; Rolie Polie Guacamole- Avocado