Family music’s energetic sounds sure beat the heat. These artists create cool listening for a summer day (or night).
ALBUM The Groundwork Music Orchestra’s name is hard to remember, but their CD Introducing the Groundwork Music Orchestra is memorable. The trio combines American pop and folk with European influences into a mix intended for younger kids (under 8). Whether it’s the mournful call-and-response of “Bone Soup” or the kids’ vocals on “Jump,” this album delivers simple songs in a friendly listening experience. Individual players stand out: a beautiful mandolin on the bluesy “Alligator” and a nice tuba setup to “Thelma Lou,” a love song about a gorilla. The album came from and benefits the Austin-based Groundwork Music Project, which provides free music classes to preschoolers. www.groundworkmusic.org
CONCERTS
- The Plants, July 14, 10am, Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA (free). “Monster Under My Bed” from the Plants’ debut CD Sprouting Out is a Kids Corner hit. The Philadelphia group’s infectious rock energy will enliven Rosetree Park’s Day of Fun. 610-566-2730 _ www.co.delaware.pa.us/summer
- Princess Katie & Racer Steve, Aug. 4, 6:30pm, Abington Art Center, 515 Meetinghouse Rd., Jenkintown, PA. I’m hosting this character-based duo’s energetic show at Abington Art Center. They were a big favorite at the recent Kids Corner Music Festival. Their show is centerpiece of a free Kid Fest, 5:30-8:30pm, featuring kids’ art activities. 215-887-4882, http://abingtonartcenter.org/?s=events+
SONG Baron Von Rumblebuss, “Did You See (Where the Cat Threw Up, Cuz the Cat Threw Up Again)?” Voted Kids Corner top song with one airplay. Judge for yourself. It’s from the Baron’s album Agreeably Loud!! www.reverbnation.com
Homemade video of Baron Von Rumblebuss's cat-hurling classic
Kathy O’Connell is a contributing writer to MetroKids and host of the Peabody-award-winning Kids Corner, weekdays 7-8pm on WXPN 88.5 FM.
