Animaniacs [CASSETTE] [Import]

Okay, so I'm a HUGE Animaniacs fan. I love their cartoons -- funny and childish yet containing so many intelligent references that you are constantly kept on your toes. And I especially love their insane songs that always do a phenomenal (and sometimes bewildering) job of putting such diverse topics together and making sense of it all. So when I found this release in Australia back in 1994, I had to buy it, and it immediately found its way to my frequent play list. For fans of the Animaniacs or simply fans of fun and amusing songs and lyrics that can appeal to both children and adults, this is a must have selection of songs to add to your collection. Just sit back, sing along, and have a good laugh!

"Animaniacs" is the fun opening theme song to the cartoon. A quaint show tune, "Yakko's Universe" is a great factoid song and presents a good perspective -- "It's a big universe and we're not." You already are laughing at the title, "Schnitzelbank" is the "international friendship song" (though what "piece of bread, Wakko's head" has to do with friendship, I don't know) and is funny as all get out (especially if you've seen the cartoon or can visualize what's going on in the scene)! "What Are We" faces the standard question -- what ARE the Animaniacs anyway? Another cute show tune, it concludes that the Warner Bros and Sis are simply "cute." Rendering a classic as only they can, "Yes, Brothers Warner We" is a remake of a Sir Arthur Sullivan classic that tells the tale of the Warners at sea. An absolute classic, "Yakko's World" has to be heard to believe how well they've merged all the countries of the world into this one song. I challenge anyone to sing this one without the lyrics in front of you... I still can't do it! A bit easier, "Wakko's America" is great for kids to learn all the states and their capitals. "Video Revue" is hilarious for the movie nuts out there (the juxtapositioning is brilliant). Another Sullivan parody, "I Am the Very Model of a Cartoon Individual" is a hilarious rendition of this classic poem. "I'm Mad" is sung by the psychiatrist character and the Warners. Imagine the kids in the back of the car during a road trip and this one will be hilarious and far too realistic at the same time. A quick and to the point listing, "The Planets" has the obligatory "Uranus" joke. Both sweet and manic, "The Etiquette Song" might mention all the silverware, but it certainly has bad (and funny) ideas for proper behavior. "I'm Cute" is Dot's theme song sung in classic 60s tv theme song mode that has a cute ending (thanks to her frustrating brothers). "The Senses" goes far beyond merely the 5 senses, such as "sense of honor, "cents," "census taker," and (of course) "nonsense." Another song I challenge you to sing without the lyrics, "Be Careful What You Eat" rattles off ingredients from your favorite junk food for its lyrics. The tune is a very recognizable Offenbach composition. "Let the Anvils Ring" is an anthem to the classic Warner gag -- the falling anvil. The release ends where it began, with the "Animaniacs" theme song, however this is an extended version with a bridge sans lyrics featuring added sound effects as well a brief change in tempo and style.

This release definitely gets a strong 5-star rating for its solid content -- and being a huge fan doesn't hurt either. [Having seen the cartoons for these songs does help enhance the experience of listening, but it is by no means required.] From the silly and inane to the downright deep, this Animaniacs release is just what I need when I feel like I've been locked up in the tower and need to break free from the monotony. It's especially great for a creative boost when I'm blocked.

There's something here for everyone. For learning, there are great factoid songs like "Yakko's World" and "Wakko's America." If you like parodies, you'll be laughing and thinking while listening to "Yes, Brothers Warner We" and "I Am the Very Model..." And if you want originals, look no further than "I'm Mad" and "Schnitzelbank" for sheer brilliance and joy. So maybe you've got to be "zany to the max" to enjoy this one. If you are, then I'd like to shake your hand; it's a pleasure to meet you! Is there baloney in your slacks, too?

"Yakko's World" and "Wakko's America" alone are worth the price of the disc and are sure to become favorites among both the big and little ones in your family. Adults will be amused by the pop culture references and whimsical, yet intelligent lyrics of each song, while kids will get off on the catchy tunes, and playful attitudes of the voice actors from the series.

Whether you're a fan of the show or a casual listener, "Animaniacs" is a great CD collection for all ages!

Highly Recommended.