Reviewed by Paul Poulton

There is a tradition of children's music (and movies) that is aimed at children but hopes to rope in the adults too. Harry Nilsson's 'The Point' did a superb job and in some ways set the standard: interesting dialogue coupled with neat songs that groove along, the narration linking one song into the next song with ease and panache. 'Peter's Heart' moves away from 'The Point' by using a traditional orchestral feel. Nikos Papadogiorgos wrote the music and he is influenced by Henry Purcell and Gustav Mahler among others which translates into the lively sounding parts that weave in and out throughout the album. The music is well written and well performed and moves fast from one musical theme to the next. Young Peter in the narrative of the album is performed by Kyle Macris, who does a fine job. He is expecting Jesus to arrive at his house but has a few other visitors first. Including Mr Selfish who scoffs some of the cake that Peter was hoping to give to Jesus. Mr Anger also visits, he's in a mean mood and has plenty to moan about, his motto in life is "Kick and scream, it's okay". As you may have already noticed the writer, Barbara Gante has gone along John Bunyan's route that we find in the classic book, Pilgrims Progress, using anthropomorphic personification for certain vices. It's a good lesson for us all to learn, if we can be aware of the ploys an enemy we have more armoury to resist the enemy. The narrative is not extensive and relies on simplistic parallels that younger children may enjoy but whether they have the patience to sit through it is another matter.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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