When was the last time you heard the word "yucky" in an alternative/rock song?

Yeah, me neither. As a matter of fact, I heard several things on this album I've never heard before. Because this is a kids album. A kids album with alternative-influenced guitar sounds, unlike anything else out there. The concept Mr. Bill came up with is, "Why should adults get all the best-sounding music?" The result is When I Grow Up, an album adults will enjoy for the modern production values, and kid's will love for the lyrics.

The aforementioned "yucky" reference was to "Jesus is the Rock," a straight-up pop song about not losing your footing in the difficulties of day-to-day life. Mr. Bill comes closet to the "sing-songy" approach he's trying so hard to avoid with "Wa-Wa-Water" and the title track. But when he experiments with styles you wouldn't expect to find on a children's album that things become most interesting. Like for example the reggae-influenced "Forgive Them," or "Praise His Name" (my personal favorite), which sounds like it could've come right off a vineyard praise & worship album. He has a definite ear for a cool groove, proven most especially on "Unto Him," which has a rhythm that will stick in your head all day after you hear it once.

Also worthy of note is his Web site, which has tons of fun stuff to do, for kids and adults. Games, clubs, contests, and lots of info on Mr. Bill, his band, and his ministry awaits surfers at this site.

All in all, I found Mr. Bill a talented man who's put together a clever album with wide appeal, and surprises around every corner, I hope he gets his chance he deserves to make his music heard