DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH. Diamond, Charlotte Hug Bug Records, 1986. Phonodisc. 1-22", 33 l/3rpm, stereo. $9.98. Distributed by A & M Records (Canada), 939 Warden Avenue, Scarborough, Ontario. MIL 4C5. Pre-school and up Reviewed by Christine Buchanan Volume 15 Number 6 1987 November Diamond in the Rough, the 1986 Juno Award Winner for the Best Children's Album, is this singer's second recording, the first being 10 Carrot Diamond produced in 1985. Fifteen selections are offered, including traditional favourites such as "When I First Came to This Land," "La Bastringue," and "Collinda" and, as well, seven songs written by the artist herself. It is clear that Charlotte Diamond has genuine lyric skill, and she is to be applauded for bringing in fresh material and energy to the Canadian children's music scene. Her1 songs "What Kind of Tree Are You?" and "The Days of the Week" are examples of pieces which are deceptively simple and yet are truly engaging and invite immediate participation. I have a minor quibble with the record cover that promises "more sparkling songs and stories." This label might lead the browser to think the record contains several longer told stories. In fact, there are only two items, "The Foolish Frog" and "Boa Constrictor" which might really be called "stories." However, this is a recording which can be definitely recommended. The singer's voice is clear and pleasant, and her renditions are enthusiastic. She conveys a genuine love of music and a wish to share it with the listener. The instrumental accompaniments are interesting and lively, and the recording as a whole shows effective arrangement and pacing. Words are included but unfortunately no music or chords. One song is in French, and three others feature French sections, and one includes a Spanish version. This record, and its predecessor, are welcome additions for the home, and also for the school and public libraries seeking to expand their children's music collections. It will be worth looking out for future recordings by Charlotte Diamond. Recommended. Christine Buchanan, Toronto, Ont.