Kids' Music: New CDs and Concerts

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Trees is a brilliant concept collaboration by kindie stars about . . . trees. Molly Ledford (of Lunch Money), Billy Kelly (of Blah Blah Blahs fame) and producer Dean Jones navigate their way through musical roots and many branches of their subject to deliver my favorite (so far) CD of the year. It is wonderful, starting with the title track/opener, a complex counterpoint song. This CD shines with the wit and musical excellence its creators have brought to their individual projects. The catchy razzmatazz of “Acorns” suits the upbeat range of Ledford’s unique sound, while “Angel Oak” leans toward her whispery, reflective side. Kelly’s punk origins are on fine display with “The Dichotomous Key.” His humor sparkles throughout the whole project, especially on “(It’s Just a) Dumb Old Stick” and “The National Tree of England.” It’s educational. It’s fun. It’s a must for nature centers. This CD truly is the sum of its creative partners.


"(It's Just a) Dumb Old Stick" 


Lori HenriquesHow Great Can This Day Be displays a jazzy musical complexity, complete with brassy horn section. The positivity of the title track sets the tone for this uplifting CD, finishing off with a great holiday song called “Another Great Year.” “I Am Your Friend” has the soft-shoe danceability of an Astaire tune. “Monkey Monkey” is rhythmically delightful. “Groove” sets a message of movement to a bossa nova beat. It’s never icky, just filled with a joyous outlook toward life. 


"How Great Can This Day Be"

Next page: What's up at World Café Live in March?

 

Trek to both World Café Live locations Saturdays throughout March for the Peanut Butter & Jams Concert Series to enjoy a diversely delicious collection of kindie artists: Rolie Polie Guacamole (3/7, Wilmington), Uno Dos Tres con Andres (3/7, Philly), Sugar-Free All Stars (3/14, Wilmington), We Kids Rock Band (3/21, Wilmington), Jazzy Ash (3/28, Philly) and Jason Didner and the Jungle Gym Band (3/28, Wilmington). Rock, funk, Latin roots, New Orleans . . . whatever your musical taste, you’ll find it this month at World Café Live. 

 


"¡Salta, Salta!" Uno Dos Tres con Andres


"My Daddy's Record Collection," Sugar Free All Stars


"My Doggie Goes . . .," We Kids Rock Band


"Throw Me Something Mista," Jazzy Ash


"Jungle Gym Jammin'," Jason Didner & the Jungle Gym Band

Kathy O’Connell is a contributing writer to MetroKids and host of Kids Corner, weekdays 7-8pm on WXPN 88.5 FM. 

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