2005 music reviews (January-June)

albums by Jessica Harper and Chicago Parent Records, reviewed January 2005

One may appreciate different kinds of art in different yet equal ways. And if that same "one" were a musical archeologist sifting through a Jessica Harper find, he or she would discover treasures that would benefit the whole family: a voice that dances on a bed of world music; songs that gently chord universal themes of acceptation and inspiration; and harmonies that are tight, tight, tight!

Parents and teachers alike will appreciate the depth of Harper's celebration of the visual arts on her new release, Hey Picasso. She shares her own life-long enjoyment of art, and, in doing so, creates new art, and a new appreciation. So the cycle continues through a rich tapestry of childhood experiences, family life and inspiration.

If you're considering a museum outing with your family (or your kids have a museum field trip on their school calendar), have your children give a listen to Hey Picasso. Then encourage them to look at a painting and think what the person trapped in the painting might be feeling or thinking at that particular frozen moment. In this way, you will begin to plumb the depths of Jessica Harper's, Hey, Picasso.

Hey Picasso, Jessica Harper, Rounder Records; CD $14.98; 2004; phone 800-ROUNDER, website www.rounder.com. Buy Hey Picasso at Amazon.com!

My children's music reviewing compatriot, Fred Koch, from the Windy City, Chicago, has compiled Singin' in the City, an engaging, fun-filled amalgamation of talented artists and musical styles that celebrates life and the child.

The "first lady of children's music," Ella Jenkins, anchors this collection with "Annie My Cooking Friend," "I Looked Into the Mirror" and "You'll Sing a Song and I'll Sing a Song" (performed by Koch). These songs are nicely complemented by Justin Robert's "Little Raindrop," Jim Gill's "Spin Again" and Susan Salidor's "I've Got Peace in My Fingers," as well as selections from Joel Frankel, Nelson Gill, Tricia Sebastian and Steve Rashid. All in all, an engaging, danceable collection.

Singin' in the City, Vol. 1 – Children's Music, Chicago Style, various artists, Chicago Parent Records; $14.95 CD; 2003; website www.chicagoparent.com.

Also check out:

Alphabet Songs Vol. 2 – Ivan Idea, Steve Weeks, A Bumbles Production, 2004; $12.00 CD; website www.steveweeksmusic.com, phone 719-632-9468, "Songsmith Steve Weeks is back, with nary a false note, as he shares nine more letters of the alphabet (I-Q). The songs are highly creative, finely performed and ably produced – This stuff is good! Nine more to go…go Steve, go!" John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Alphabet Songs Vol. 2 at Amazon.com!

Second Grade Rocks! Smart Songs For Super Kids, Lauren Mayer, Curriculum Rocks, 2004; $17.00 CD; website www.curriculumrocks.com, phone 650-578-9704. "Moving on up to the second grade, Lauren Meyer's songs are an inviting mix of fun, musicianship and appropriate curriculum content. Another fine tool for the classroom." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Smart Songs For Super Kids at Amazon.com!

Mouse Jamboree, Mary Kaye, Mary Kaye Music, 2004; $15.00 CD; website www.marykayemusic.com, phone 800-BUY-MY-CD. "Clever songs, nice arrangements and pleasant, gentle harmonies makes this collection easy on the ears." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.

Yahoooo, Chris Morrison, Prairie Rhythm and Song, 2004; $14.99 CD; website www.prairierhythm.com, phone 405-601-7599. "Upbeat, earnest, participatory tunes of self-esteem." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.

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albums by Netwerk America and Magic Maestro Music, reviewed February 2005

Nettwerk America, in cooperation with VH1's Save The Music Foundation, has released For The Kids Too, the aptly titled follow-up to 2002's highly successful and artistically satisfying For The Kids. Artists from the pop and rock world leap into the children's music field with gusto. The performances are inspired, the original songs burst with focus and imagination, and the cover songs are delightful.

Some of the highlights, and there are many, include: Australian artist, Butterfly Boucher's "I'm Different," which is defiant in a positive self-esteem sort of way; Chicago native, Ralph Covert, joins in the fun "At the Bottom of the Sea"; Zany duo, They Might Be Giants' rock-driven "John Lee Supertaster" purloined from their album, No!; and Lisa Loeb and Elizabeth Mitchell's beautifully crafted and wistfully performed original "Catch the Moon."

Proceeds from the CD's sales benefit the Lili Claire Foundation, which helps people born with neurogenetic disorders. A good cause all around!

For The Kids Too! Various Artists, Netwerk America, 2004; $14 CD; phone 800-764-3472, website www.nettwerk.com, www.musicforkids.com. Buy For The Kids Too at Amazon.com!

The beloved children's book Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel was written over 60 years ago by Virginia Lee Burton and inspired by the activities of her own children. Composer Stephen Simon raptly listened to the story as a child, shared it with his own children and recently put the story to music. In the vein of Peter and the Wolf and Carnival of the Animals, this narrated symphony tells the triumphant story of Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel Mary Anne (nice name for a shovel) as they compete with the changing technology and advent of gasoline and electric machinery.

An informative and educational 24-page booklet is a major plus in the package put together by executive producer Bonnie Ward Simon. Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel should be around for many a year.

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Magic Maestro Music, 2004; $16.98 CD; phone 800-HEAR-MAGIC, website www.magicmaestromusic.com.

Also check out:

Walk With Me, Mark Bernstein, 2003; $12.00 CD; website www.markbernstein.com, phone 317-259-4063. "Uplifting songs of cooperation, love, and positive family values performed by a new and clear voice on the children's music scene." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Walk With Me at Amazon.com!

Jambalaya — Stories with Louisiana Flavor, Dianne de Las Casas, Story Connection Productions, 2003; $17.00 CD; website www.storyconnection.net, phone 504-368-1831; "A spicy Cajun mixture of authentic stories and music, with a definite down-home Louisiana feel presented in fine form by gifted storyteller Dianne de Las Casas." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Jambalaya — Stories with Louisiana Flavor at Amazon.com!

Dancin' & Dreamin' With Dennis, Dennis Berner, Berner Publishing Company; $14.95 CD, 2003; website www.musicbydennis.com, phone 504-283-2403. "Genuine songs about love, acceptance, cooperation. understanding and care for the world in which we live." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.

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albums by Bill Harley and The Banana Slug String Band, reviewed March 2005

Bill Harley has the uncanny gift of telling stories that are autobiographical and yet speak to the child/student that is indelibly etched in us all. The Teachers' Lounge is Harley's 25th foray into the psychiatric trenches of just what the heck elementary school was all about. Through a potent, hilarious mixture of music, stories and poems, Harley takes us in his own personal "way-back machine" to revisit experiences with a new perspective (falls under the category of: "Hey, this'll be funny in a few years").

Harley can enthrall and weave a story with the best of them, hence his much-deserved numerous awards and Grammy nominations. Yet his company is grassroots from the basement up. He and his wife, Debbie, personally ship each and every CD. Makes sense, really, that a master storyteller is constantly discovered by word of mouth. And, if you haven't discovered Bill Harley yet . . . well, tag you're it!

The Teachers' Lounge - More Completely True Stories and Poems, Bill Harley, Round River Music, 2004; $15 CD; phone 800-682-9522, www.billharley.com. Buy The Teachers' Lounge at CDBaby!

The Banana Slug Band educates as it entertains — as it should be. In Wings of Slumber, the talented quartet delivers 14 songs and 61 minutes of gentle, effective, multiculturally influenced material that celebrates the earth, environment, peace and understanding. And if that's not enough, this good music will accompany your busy child to the Land of Nod!

"Through these songs we've tried to create vivid nature images and to affirm the unconditional love that parents feel toward their children," says songwriter Steve Van Zandt. This positive process is ably assisted by guest stars, George Winston, Laurie Lewis, George Kahumoku, and Barry and Shelley Phillips. Catch you on the flip side.

Wings Of Slumber, Banana Slug String Band, Slug Music, 2004; $14.98 CD; phone 888-327-5847, www.bananaslugstringband.com. Buy Wings Of Slumber at Amazon.com!

Also check out:

Foxtails: The Adventure of Freddie Fox, Robert Hanrott and Martha Horsley, BYD Press, 2004; $14.95 CD; website www.hanrott.com, phone 202-342-9189, "Stories that do not condescend. Stories that entertain and educate. Parents,if you can't follow, look to the included glossary. Children, kick back and enjoy the adventures of Freddie the Fox. I did." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Foxtails at CDBaby!

Miss Anna's Music Class: Volume II, Anna Stange, Lucky Dog Music, 2004; $15.00 CD; website www.webserve.govst.edu/users/gastange, phone 708-389-7957. "Tag you're it! Anna Stange is passing on to the next generation of teachers, songs that have flown beneath the radar for countless years, and for one good reason: they are universal, evergreen and touch the child within us all. " John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Miss Anna's Music Class at CDBaby!

Fairy Moon - Songs of the Ring, Maria Sangiolo, Raging River Records, 2004; $15.00 CD; website www.mariasangiolo.com, phone 860-974-1691. "The Scrooge in me is melted by Fairy Moon, and yes, I hear pure vocals, songs that touch my heart and solid production values. Before the door closes, I believe! I believe!" John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Fairy Moon - Songs of the Ring at CDBaby or Amazon.com!

Bumblz Tunes – Songs in the Key of Bee, songs written by Dan Konyha & Dag Livgard (The Bumbiz Band), Bumblz Media, Inc., 2004; $9.99 CD; website www.bumblz.com, phone 604-677-1672. "I heard the buzz and there's honey in them thar tunes! Bouncy, sweet, well-written, wholesome songs based on clever animated characters created by Ed & Dan Konyha." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Bumblz Tunes – Songs in the Key of Bee at Amazon.com!

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albums by Various Artists, reviewed April 2005

April showers usually bring May flowers, but in this case, we have some April flowers that we've picked especially for your auditory pleasure — something old something new, something borrowed and something blue, and, no showers. Enjoy.

Ship of Chocolate Chips – More Great Sing-a-longs for Children, Joel Frankel, Crunchy Records, 2005; $15.00 CD; www.joelfrankel.com, phone 773-588-3353. "Frankel's fourth children's CD is a musical treat that will tickle your sweet tooth all the way down to your funny bone. An imaginative mixture of musical tall tales and intimate insights to the child within us all." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Ship of Chocolate Chips at CDBaby.com and Amazon.com!

I Love My Shoes, Eric Ode, Deep Rooted Music, 2005; $14.00 CD; www.ericode.com , phone 253-826-2115. "Seasoned children's performer Eric Ode brings to the table a complete feast of energy-filled new songs and fun lyrics that totally invite and encourage participation. Mom and dad may even embarrass themselves by dancing 'round the condo…" John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy I Love My Shoes at CDBaby.com!

A Pocketful of Song – Children's Songs and Lullabies From Around Europe, Jonathan Hayward & Various Artists, 2005; $15.00 CD; www.pocketfulofsong.co.uk, phone 00 44 (0)1273471776. "Classically trained musicians and singers perform acoustic renditions of 22 traditional folk songs and lullabies from Europe and China - A gentle introduction for the children and a soothing reminiscence for grownups." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com.

Monkey Business, Eric Herman and the Invisible Band, Butter-Dog Productions, 2005; $11.99 CD; www.erichermanmusic.com, phone 509-943-1547. "Inspired, clever and nicely produced rock tunes that will at once have you dancing in the streets and bent over laughing with milk squirting out your nose – if 'Prune Juice' doesn't get you moving then nothing will." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Monkey Business at CDBaby.com and Amazon.com!

A Mother's Voice, Diane Rose, Small Not Stupid Records, 2004; $10.00 CD; www.dianerosemusic.com, phone 310-399-2533. "Simply produced – voice and guitar – tender uplifting folk songs of hope and acceptance." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy A Mother's Voice at CDBaby.com and Amazon.com!

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albums by Don't Blink and Paul Tracey, reviewed May 2005

As a children's music reviewer and a performer of the same, I sometimes try to visualize other children's artists as bugs on the windshield of an out-of-control car. And then I wake up and smell the coffee and listen to a group that just won't stick to the windshield!

Parachute Express - Donny, Stephen and Janice - drive me nuts. I've sent them lousy songs to record; vilified them in school periodicals; sent them to entertain North Korean soldiers, but yet, they release Don't Blink, a wonderful collection of scintillating, captivating and spiritual music that speaks to the heart. I'm sorry, but my paparazzi can't find anything on these three. They truly believe in love, truth and happiness. There must be someway to thwart their evil plan! Their music is well written, superbly performed and downright addictive. That is why I beg you not to listen to this album. Save yourselves! I see a windshield dead ahead!

Don't Blink, Parachute Express, Trio Lane Records, 2004; $15 CD, $12 cassette; phone 888-445-4687, www.ParachuteExpress.com. Buy Don't Blink at CDBaby.com.

Paul Tracey is a good friend (at least that's the way I see it)- a multi-talented performer of wit, mirth and merriment – a master of voices and guitar voicing and brilliant songwriter to boot. His new collection of 35 traditional Mother Goose Rhymes is simple yet complete. The poem-songs are, like a fine wine, meant to breath – the essence of the meter is meant to be appreciated, and the moment to savor. Mother Goose rhymes, compiled to reflect true historical figures and events, are stripped bare and are presented by a true connoisseur of fine listening. Catch you on the flip side!

Parent Song – Mother Goose's Nursery Rhymes, Paul Tracey, Kunjani Music, 2004; $17 CD; 310-454-4575, www.paultracey.org, www.parentsong.com

Also check out:

Tiny Tunes – Music For the Very Young Child, Carole Peterson, Macaroni Soup, 2005; $15.00 CD; website www.macaronisoup.com, phone 847-384-1404, "Carole Peterson talks directly to her young audience in a leisurely manner much as Fred Rogers did so splendidly. She never condescends but mark this, you will be up and moving from the get-go! I'm packing this CD when I check into the home because even I can follow along." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Tiny Tunes at CDBaby.com!

From Ragtime to Rock & Roll, Barbara Martin, Rare Bird Music, 2005; $10.00 CD; website www.barbaramartinmusic.com, phone 540-886-2966. "An edutaining musical American history lesson featuring Barbara Martin's solid, clear vocals riding the crest of fine arrangements, accompaniment and stellar production value. Nicely done!" John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy From Ragtime to Rock & Roll at Amazon.com!

Hungry For Manners – Songs of Kindness, Politeness and Love, Mike Soloway, Raging River Records, 2005; $13.99 CD; website www.mikesoloway.com, phone 631-470-0523. "12 gentle folksy songs that encourage positive roll models and values." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Hungry For Manners at CDBaby.com!

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albums by Gary Rosen and Marla Lewis, reviewed June 2005

After decades of giving of his talents and pinpoint insights to the wonderful world of family music, Gary Rosen has embarked on a new chapter of his life: a time to receive. And who best to receive from but his family – specifically, his three talented children, Lela, Penn and Eliza, who lend heft and emotion to his newest CD, Pet Sounds. Last year, Rosen was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease), which on the best of days will put a hitch in ya giddyup, but Rosen sidles up and moves on down the road with musical credentials intact.

This album bristles with immediacy, brilliance and talent to spare. It's a pleasing mixture of new tunes and some classics written with former partner Bill Shontz, from the Rosenshontz days. A bonus track "The Best That I Can," featuring additional lyrics reflecting Rosen's condition, was used as a theme song by the Special Olympics and the Massachusetts Easter Seals when it was first released: I say 'Don't you feel sad, that you've got to slow down?'/ 'Oh no, not when I've got love all around / Don't go feeling sorry for me. I may be sick, but I can see that / I'm gonna be the best that I can...

All three children add love, affection and priceless family memories with their performances but Lela Rosen's angelic voice in "One Sweet Song" stands out: I'd like to sing you / One sweet song / One sweet song for you / While you close your drowsy eyes / I'll sing the sweetest song for you. We should all be so fortunate. Share the love with Pet Sounds.

Pet Sounds, Gary Rosen, GMR Records, 2005; $14.98 CD; www.garyrosenkidsmusic.com, phone 802-257-9566.

New York-based teacher and songwriter Marla Lewis has released a terrific new CD, We All Laugh in the Same Language, that incorporates solid production, a variety of bouncy musical styles and, above all, strong creative lyrics marinated with a honey-dipped voice reminiscent of Jessica Harper. Why is this album miles ahead of most first musical recording forays today? Read on!

Balancing performing with a teacher's heart, Lewis initially earned a masters degree in counseling and guidance then moved on to a second master's in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Fifteen years of teaching and refining her craft with "kid-tested songs" has molded Lewis into a seasoned performer.

"As a teacher, many of my songs are influenced by my classroom experiences," she says. "Often my students will make suggestions to improve a song in progress."

My favorite song, one that brings tears, is "Best Friends" – a song that transcends time and age: If I'm a rainbow, then you're the sun / Shining all my lovely colors on everyone / If I'm a paper, you're the pen / You bring out the best in me, you're my best friend. Lewis is an artist worth learning more about.

As reviewers of children's music our goal is to stimulate and excite the reader to learn more about a particular artist, seek out the MP3 samplers and add the CD to your child's collection. These two are must-haves. Catch you on the flip side!

We All Laugh in the Same Language, Marla Lewis, Plumjuice Records, 2005; $15 CD; www.marlalewis.com, phone 516-785-8456. Buy We All Laugh in the Same Language at CDBaby.com and Amazon.com!

Also check out:

Purple Burt, Mitch Friedman, Meechmusic, 2005; $11.00 CD; website www.mitchfriedman.com, phone 718-246-1760, "A zany, brainy engaging concept CD featuring an invisible purple boy named Burt who's best friend is a snapping turtle. Get the picture? Oh, did I mention he's colorblind? Lots of fun and silliness." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Purple Burt at CDBaby.com!

The Campfire Kev Show – And Other Radio Favorites, Kevin Holladay, Kev Radio, 2004; $15.95 CD; website www.campfirekev.com, phone 502-252-7258. "Kevin Holladay's creative throwback to the days of the pure Americana radio show mixed with contemporary sounds is a feast for the ears and fun for everyone. It's the best looking Campfire Kev Show CD you'll ever hear…." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy The Campfire Kev Show at Amazon.com!

Here We Go! Uncle Rock, Jackpot Music, 2005; $13.97 CD; website www.unclerock.com, phone 845-688-2889. "Simple production values showcase upbeat participatory rock-based tunes from dinosaurs to fairies." John Wood, Kidzmusic.com. Buy Here We Go! at CDBaby.com!

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