Well, the relatively small but highly influential island nation of New Zealand is really setting the pace in the world of music at the moment, with the imminent release of this truly exceptional album. Levity Beet and the Aotearoa All Stars contains a unique collaboration of the finest children's music writers, performers and producers from across the country. Here, a rich diversity of the cream of the NZ music scene have combined their respective talents, and in doing so have succeeded in creating a musical masterpiece.
The album opens with the delightful ditty "Let's Build This Home", where a jaunty vibe sets the tone, led by the the warm exuberance of Suzy Cato on lead vocals. The music glistens and shines throughout, providing an opening metaphor of what lies in store for the attentive listener. Here the lyrics briefly explore how this collection of artists built the album, working together in this productive collaboration, represented here as something of a home from home. Whether this involves building a house, a song or an album, we are encouraged to 'build with ideas', ultimately represented through song and dance.
I remember when I first heard the song 'Band Aid' way back in 1985, I was particularly struck by the unique input and individual style of each artist. Who could forget Bono's famous harmonic duet alongside Sting? Similarly here, you can instantly recognise the distinctive sound of Claudia Robin Gunn on the wonderful "Stick", the infectious energy of Craig Smith on the hilarious "Silly Sausage", and the delightful contribution of fleaBITE on the captivating "Sing".
Furthermore, there's plenty of variety on this ambitious album. If you're looking for action songs to liven up your home or the classroom, there's plenty to choose from. Such as the charmingly melodic "Funny Little Bunny" featuring the very talented Judi Cranston. Here, the lyrical invitation conjures up images of happy kids dancing in line with jaunty steps and open hearts. Likewise, the hypnotic"Jump" featuring the fabulous Loopy Tunes, continues in similar fashion with its cool rap vibe and sweeping soundscapes, providing copious opportunities for movement and dance.
The irrepressible Chris Sanders takes centre stage on "Monsters in the Room" and succeeds in adding a certain jollification to the proceedings. The song somewhat unsuprisingly reminded me a little of the Cookie Monster with its raspy vocal and percussive vibe. There clearly is something for everyone here, and no stone remains unturned, such is the diversity and imagination available. The album succeeds because it never rests on its laurels, constantly searching for new heights, where every possible idea is seemingly plucked from the air and transported into a compelling and ambitious musical arrangement.
"Riding Up The Hill" harnesses shades of Simon and Garfunkel's classic "Cecilia" particularly during the intro, where the rhythm both introduces and then propels the sound forward. The lead vocal from MLO provides something of a country vibe, as the lyrics paint a picture of a series of intrepid journeys from the hilltop to the moon and everywhere in between. The song also contains additional surprises, including an explosive rap towards the end, where we are reminded in no uncertain terms that this trip is truly 'amazing'.
"Witches Brew" takes the listener on an extraordinary dive into esoteric mayhem, where the brilliant Itty Bitty Beats add their own unique brand of amazing vocal histrionics to the sound. Here the Munsters meet the B52s to create the most extraordinary musical arrangement you are ever likely to hear. "Sing" has a slight Americana feel, where Gene Kelly is seemingly resurrected for a cameo appearance, encouraging the listener to 'sing in the long grass', when there's nothing to do. The album also finds the space to fit in a musical nursery rhyme for the twenty first century with the masterful "One Baby Burger", where the illustrious contribution of Kath Bee provides a truly compelling vocal delivery.
My absolute favourite track on the album is the delightful "Monster Fish", which includes another superb vocal performance from the award-winning duo Mr Roberelli, laying down a cool, detached almost Caribbean vibe, where we get to 'head down to the river and catch that monster fish'. The bridge is saturated in melody, and the harmonies are truly superb. A real feel-good track, which is guaranteed to lighten your mood on even the darkest of days.
"When We Say Goodbye", finally brings down the curtain, providing the perfect way to conclude the album. A very catchy singalong, featuring the ingenious Music with Michal who adds her own particular brand of crystal clear vocals to the proceedings. The magnificent vocal blend throughout the song adds a tremendous sense of vitality to this jaunty yet slightly melancholy farewell.
Perhaps a little early to claim album of the year, but this has to be a serious contender, such is the depth of talent and strength of content contained here. Each song exudes its own unique charm and succeeds in providing something slightly different. On some occasions the magical adventures of youth are beautifully captured, where distant memories are revisited with a glimmer of nostalgic reverence. The mastermind behind this ambitious musical project is Levity Beet himself, who describes the album as 'a celebration of the power of music to bring people together'. I couldn't have put it better myself. The album will be released on 1st May.
Levity Beet and the Aotearoa All Stars - a timeless classic.
