Sometimes we need a hug, no matter how big or small we are, we just need the warmth of something to surround us and let us know that everything will be ok.

Over the weekend, my 3yr old was overtired and simply tapped out. We are going through the lovely transitionary period where the nap is no longer an option but either is staying up all day. So, last Saturday evening when my daughter couldn’t quite hold it together, she just stood in front of me with tears streaming down her face. She was defeated. So, as we sat on the floor and I held her in my arms, I turned on “It’s A Big World” and for the next 15 minutes we were enveloped in the calming embrace that is Renee & Jeremy.

Renee & Jeremy is made up of two wonderful L.A. based artists who, aside from this effort, are parents and solo artists in their own right. One half of the duo is Renee Stahl, who has released solo albums for film, TV and advertising. The other half, Jeremy Toback, current member of Chop Love Carry Fire, released a couple of solo albums in the late 90’s, and formed the band Brad with Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam. As a whole, these two produce soothing sounds that pull you in and sweep you up into an aura of love.

Renee & Jeremy’s debut, “It’s A Big World,” was released in 2007. The first 2 songs written (“Welcome To This World” and “Falling Star Lullaby”) were inspired by Jeremy’s youngest son. What’s even sweeter is that the album was recorded while Renee was pregnant with her first child (they actually recorded the album in the baby’s nursery). Knowing this further increases the depth and sincerity in the sound and spirit of this album. It’s totally authentic and filled with so much love.

While “It’s A Big World” was intended to be a lullaby album, there are a few upbeat songs. One in which I absolutely love and how I came to know Renee & Jeremy is “Night Mantra.” The song’s lyrics are “I will be your home/I will be your guide/I will be your friend/always on your side/sleep now in your room/quiet of the night/surrounded by the moon til you see the light.”

Other great songs include “It’s A Big World”, “Free”, “Powder Blue Solo”, “Sleep My Love” and “Shoorahlaywho.”

“It’s A Big World” should definitely be listened to in it’s entirety and on repeat. It is suitable for the 0-5 crowd but can also be heavily consumed by grown-ups whether you are a parent or not. We enjoy it during quiet time and really anytime the environment is calling for a more chilled out vibe, as was the case last Saturday when my daughter was having a rough time.

Please check them out and perhaps purchase a copy for yourself and a friend.

You can listen to four tracks from this album at the duo’s website. They also have an extra track on their MySpace page. You can get a free download, as well as, purchase digital copies of their album from their website. Non-digital copies of their albums are also available at other regular outlets, i.e. CDBaby and Amazon.

Below are some additional videos for your viewing pleasure: