Allegra Levy

Songs For You And Me

Little Moon, 2023

9/10

Listen to Songs For You And Me

The jazz singer-songwriter Allegra Levy brings us her first album for children and families, and it’s packed with originals that are diverse, fun and full of clever storytelling for all ages.

“Hello Song” starts the listen with soft acoustic guitar and Levy’s very friendly voice that harmonizes with the backing vocals amid Jason Yeager’s frisky keys, and “Noodles” follows with upbeat singing and radiant banjo from Andrew Baird that welcomes occasional group vocals from kids.

Elsewhere, “In The Tub” touches on Levy’s jazz skills thanks to Dan Urness and Mike Fahie’s brass moments, while “Toodalo, Kangaroo!” is just so infectious with its charming singing, Timothy Norton’s animated bass and Katie Seiler’s well timed backing vocals.

“The Way Of The World”, the best track, arrives close to the end, and showcases Roxy Coss’ bright tenor sax and Aidan Levy’s glowing tenor sax to complement Levy’s soaring vocal scatting, and “A Quiet Song” exits the listen indeed soft, where a lullaby brings ukulele from Baird for the soothing finish.

Already a very esteemed artist in the area of jazz music, Levy is quickly making a name for herself in the area of ‘kindie folk’, as evidenced by this creative, joyful and excellent use of silliness that’s aimed at the younger ears.

Travels well with: Stephanie Leavell- Made To Bloom; Katie Dwyer Music- Let’s Move