Make a Circle

PreS-Gr 3—This collection of 10 easy-listening pop-style ballads by Los Angeles—based composer/musician Jennifer Paskow indeed makes a circle. (The closing track is a repeat of a song on the disc, this time with an acoustic arrangement.) A thread connects all of the tracks on this concept album. It starts with the importance of loving oneself in order to love others, accepting people for who they are, and connecting with the wider world. There is an innocence to Paskow's breathy soprano vocals that engenders trust and intimacy with listeners. Standout songs include "The I Love You Song" (a reassurance that "I l-o-v-e y-o-u"), "On the Inside" (the need to look inside people to see what's in their heart), "I Am a Tree" (a lighthearted reminder to care for others), and "Celebrate This Day" (a celebration of life). Also notable is Paskow's arrangement of the traditional song "This Little Light of Mine." Leaning heavily on acoustic instruments, keyboards, and percussion throughout the recording keeps the music easy and simple, which works well with Paskow's singing style.