MUSIC REVIEW: School Library Journal - June 2001

Jammy Man. 1 cassette or 1 CD. approx. 36 min.

SongTrunk Music. 2000, 2001 release. cassette: $10; CD: $13. 

By: Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, King County Library System, WA.

PreS-Gr 4-This is a fun collection from Paul Trunko that both children and parents will enjoy. "The Jammy Man" is defender of his room. The authoritative lyrics, "this is my room and I'm the boss, all you bad guys better get lost," will empower young children who may be fearful of bedtime. The dynamic songs detail the everyday life of children and include positive messages that run the gamut from taking a "Good Nap" to a reminiscence of childhood in "Kid." The songs consist of many different styles including folk, bluegrass, blues, reggae and country. They range from lively tunes with catchy rhythms, to songs with slower tempos more appropriate for quiet times. The marching song, "Thumb in the Thumb," takes children through the act of getting dressed. Trunko wrote all the songs, including adaptations of "Ain't No Bugs on Me" and a medley of "America the Beautiful" and "This Land Is Your Land." He states in the liner notes, and it is obvious from listening to the songs, that he was strongly influenced by Not For Kids Only by Jerry Garcia and David Grisman. The performers provide pleasing, smooth vocals and are accompanied by dobro, guitar, acoustic bass, banjo, and harmonica. This is an enjoyable collection for the whole family.