What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that there's nothing objectionable here, just a solid mix of contemporary and classic artists.

Families listening together can talk about the different musical styles and how they are achieved. What about Brad Paisley's songs make them sound so country? If Sheryl Crow used fiddle and pedal steel guitar, for example, would her song sound more country too?

Common Sense Media Review
Where can you find an original score by Randy Newman, along with contributions by some legendary contemporary -- as well as classic -- recording artists? The best place we know is the soundtrack album from the Disney/Pixar movie Cars .

Sheryl Crow revs up the engine with "Real Gone," the kind of irresistible summer-party song she does so well. Throw in some Rascal Flatts ("Life Is A Highway"), Brad Paisley ("Behind the Clouds" and "Find Yourself"), James Taylor on "Our Town" (a Randy Newman original, and The Chords ... and not one, but two versions of the quintessential driving song "Route 66" (one by Chuck Berry, the other by an improbably-rockin'-out John Mayer) and you've got a pitch-perfect family road trip album that works even if no one has seen the movie.

As with all the Disney/Pixar animated projects, a major highlight is undoubtedly Randy Newman's original score. Eleven tracks are included here, including "Opening Race," "Dirt is Different," "Tractor Tipping," and "McQueen and Sally."

The other highlight has to be the understated, ever-exquisite "My Heart Would Know" by Hank Williams. Listen to this one, then replay the Brad Paisley songs. Then Listen to the Chuck Berry, followed by Sheryl Crow. For families so inclined, the CARS soundtrack provides an unintentional but lovely lesson in musical influences -- as well as a terrific way to pass the time, singing along on the road.

Fans of this soundtrack might also like soundtrack to Happy Feet .