meta-DAD’s Top Six CD’s For Kids
That’s right — six. I could not wittle it down to five, and I’m totally comfortable with that.
It’s the end of the year and you know what that means a whole lotta lists are coming out to round out the Best Of 2007 categories. This is not the Best Of… because some of this stuff has been around for a year or two, kinda like my kids. And now that I’m a full-fledged dad always in search of new music I have been checking out some different genres and areas I don’t traditionally gravitate too.
I wrote about this CD when it first came out because it was one of these rare acoustical efforts that travels beyond the coffee shop vibe into something really special. I’m not sure what but in the meantime, I’ll keep listening to it until I figure that out.
Martin & Wood Medeski – Let’s Go Everywhere
I have always associated these guys with the edgy smoke stained jazz club scene of New York City and not the sun-drenched milk-stained nursery set, but this album is definitely worth getting.
This is another not-so new but you-must-know about CD. Squirrel Nut Zippers puts the Wiggles to shame with their retro-swing-big-band extravaganza! To shame, I say!
This is by no means a new album but it has quickly become a classic in our home. This Portland Oregon-based group straddles many genres and many styles. Their music takes you around the world in a single album without the saccharine sweet World Music vibe. It’s just good music that both kids and parents will enjoy.
That’s right, Father Goose of the Dan Zane Dance Party Fame. I must admit Father Goose puts the dance in Dance Party. I’m a SKA fan from way back. You know – The Selector, IRS Records and such. Regardless, if you like reggae in general you’ll love this stuff.
This is not your usual lullaby music. This is intelligent and totally palatable stuff. Mbiras, balafons, pedal steel and autoharp are blended with Moogs, upright bass, piano, guitars, and deep, fuzzy loops. This is their first album, hopefully not their last.
