CD: American Heroes IV
By Jonathan Sprout
Grammy nominee Sprout offers the best entry in his American Heroes series based on the lives of historical figures. Sprout and co-songwriter Dave Kinnoin (another longtime voice in kids’ music) have crafted musical tributes to Roberto Clemente, Walt Disney, civil rights leader Mary McLeod Bethune and (my favorite) peace activist Samantha Smith, among others. These small, personal glimpses into the lives of figures whom history has made larger than life fulfill an educational mission, while catchy melodies and production deliver high entertainment value. William Penn’s urge to “Come with Me!” (to settle Pennsylvania) should be the state’s official tourist song. The spectacularly silly “Dr. Seuss” honors the author by namedropping titles and characters kids will recognize immediately.
American Heroes IV concert
CONCERT: Gustafer Yellowgold
March 22, 2014 The Colonial Theater, Phoenixville
Younger family members are mesmerized while parents earn a chillout in the mellow multimedia delight of a Gustafer Yellowgold show. This character/ band, created by Morgan Taylor (visiting Earth from the Sun), has opened for Wilco yet works best for the 6-and-under set. Gustafer’s mix of songs, gentle patter and sweet characters lead to a performance that leaves all ages entertained yet as relaxed as a massage.
"Cakenstein"
CONCERT: Sugar Free Allstars and Ratboy Jr.
March 29, 2014 at World Café Live, Philadelphia
Kids Corner Presents an outstanding double feature of kindie rockers. I’m thrilled to host Oklahoma’s Sugar Free Allstars and Ratboy Jr. from New York’s Hudson Valley, two rocking creators of great music for kids making rare appearances in the Delaware Valley.
Sugar-Free Allstars in concert
"Where Do Monsters Go When It's Not Halloween," Ratboy Jr.
Kathy O’Connell is a contributing writer to MetroKids and host of Kids Corner, weekdays 7-8pm on WXPN 88.5 FM.
