Music Review: To The Sea
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this is a low-key album that's all
about good times and good vibes. There's nothing really to
worry about here, as Johnson weaves a laid-back collection of
songs together full of sincere emotion and tender thoughts. It
might not be the first choice on your tweens' playlist, but the
general appeal of Johnson's vocals might mean this is an album
the whole family can enjoy together.
- Families can talk about music lyrics. One song here mentions wine in the title. How is this different from other songs that include references to alcohol?
- What types of music do you like to listen to with your family? Do you listen to different music with them than you would when you're alone? What musicians seem to cross generation gaps and appeal to a variety of ages?
- Families can talk about wanting to fit in with the crowd. There's a line from "At Or With Me" that says "Are they laughing at or with me? Why can't we just say what we mean? People are just trying to fit in..." How does fitting in change when the socializing is done online? Is it as easy to tell someone's message or tone when it's just words on a screen?
Perennial favorite Jack Johnson once again shows that nice guys can finish on top. TO THE SEA debuted at the number one spot on the charts, but that's nothing new for this popular surfer/singer who has had two other albums debut at the top of the charts in the last five years as well. Recorded in Johnson's eco-friendly solar-powered studios, Johnson’s album is about going down below the surface to discover things of value and depth.
Like the smooth waves of a crystal-clear sea, Jack Johnson's harmonious vocals are crisp and refreshing. Sure this album remains firmly planted in Johnson's trademark mellow sound, but if it ain't broke, why fix it? Luau riffs and amusing observations on the human condition make this release, like so many of Johnson's previous works, a shining example of how great pop music doesn't have to be shallow; it can go as deep as any sea.
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