A new release from the Brobdingnagian Bards and already one of my favorites. This album is a brilliant combination of original songs, parodies and traditional favorites. This is an album that works on several levels, but truly this rings as a kind nod to fandom.

I can't think of anyone my age who doesn't have fond memories of "Schoolhouse Rock." The song "Exclamations" takes the old tune "Interjections" and puts a wonderful twist to them. I am certain that this is a convention favorite (with nods to Conan, Battlestar Galactica, and more).

Another bold move is the covering of the classic "Monster Mash" by Bobby Pickett. The Bards manage to keep the original feel to the song, while giving it a wholly new sound. If this track doesn't end up on Dr. Demento's Halloween show I'll be more than a little amazed.   

Along the lines of more traditional tunes there is a fun rendition of "Rattlin' Bog" titled "Bog Down in the Valley". I've always been a fan of speed singing (Barley Mo' is another favorite of mine) and it is rare to hear a rendition that gets this fast while maintaining musical accompanyment.

The next tune on the CD is "Medeluvium Madness", which is one of the better instrumental songs I've heard in a while. Hard to accurately describe, the song is both airy and cheerful, flowing and well structured. If that makes much sense to you, you've most likely heard the tune.

Especially worth mentioning is the first track on the CD, "None But A Harper". Anyone who has read Peter S. Beagle's novel "The Last Unicorn" should be familiar with the lyrics. This is of several songs that have been inspired by various branches of fandom (including the "Princess Bride", the "Paperbag Princess" and even "Angel") and each one of them is an absolute treat. A sentiment that I can safely say carries through this entire album

$10.95 from CD Baby.