D is for Django

I’m always a little concerned about being that thirty something year old guy rolling down the street with his windows down listening to kids music sans kids in the car, but kids music has come a long way. Django Jones’ latest album is a prime example of how far the music has come. It’s one part music festival and one part story time that is both musically impressive but also silly fun that even an adult can appreciate (well, one that’s been through the ups and downs of parenthood). 

 

The album plays like a musical skit show with former Girlyman alum’s JJ, Nate, and Doris at the helm with pup Django popping up here and there on the album. The minds eye will find the trio and their lovable dog sitting around a park or apartment having conversations about their childhood, their fears, cooking, germs, and so much more. Every now and then they’ll break out into song, even if it’s just a few seconds long (which I found hilarious). 

 

The appeal of the CD is that the band incorporates a lot of very cool learning devices that will surely help kids appreciate learning as well as gives them a reason to open up a book for further exploration when the CD is over. Techniques include the use of very big words every now and then. I remember as a teenager, before I found my love for wordplay, I would listen to my music and if I didn’t understand something I’d pop open the dictionary and figure it out. I can see this happening here with kids looking to expand their experience with the album and in the long run, life. 

 

Other techniques include singing silly songs about things that kids wouldn’t normally think about, see Germs, and making a more imaginative approach a much simpler approach to understanding about complex things. There is also the way the band approaches social problems such as being different or being afraid of something and not just helping kids realize their fears and overcoming them but also by making a point by helping them understand they’re not the only ones to have these feelings. 

 

Kids are going to love this album. It’s funny, silly, and informative in all the ways kids want their information delivered. The music is top notch and the messages are a range of just for fun to serious with a light hearted approach. It wouldn’t surprise me if I turned on my television and saw Django and his human friends playing their music and having fun for kids to watch and enjoy. For now, this album is all a kid will need for a fun time.