Author Archives: kidscangroove

Guest post: Mista Cookie Jar interviews The Zing Zangs

Posted in Interviews by

zing zang pic

I am excited to bring you a guest post today by CJ Pizarro, aka Mista Cookie Jar. In the following post, MCJ interviews the classy cool Kindie group, The Zing Zangs. These highly ambitious teens have accomplished quite a lot in their young careers. Their positive energy shines in the following interview, which has no doubt contributed to their creative success thus far. One can’t help but wonder what’s to come.

Take it away Cookie!

The Zing Zangs — look out for this duo! These 13-year-old Canadian fellas, Trevor and Elliot, have an unstoppable amount of energy and creativity to share with the Kindie world. I interview Trevor here, who not only is the main songwriter, frontman, and Zing Zang visionary but is also a multi-instrumentalist, producer, video director, kids music internet DJ, and an all around nice kid matured WAY beyond his years. I am proud to consider him a peer even if I am 20 years his senior.

Their debut album, Blast Off!, is a 13 track banger featuring Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Todd McHatton, Dirty Sock Funtime Band, Sugar Free Allstars, Rocknoceros, Tim Kubart of Tim and the Space Cadets, Miss Gail of Miss Gail and the Jumpin’ Jam Band, Baze and His Silly Friends, Groovy David, Jungle Gym Jam, and myself, Mista Cookie Jar.  Pretty epic for a debut I’d have to say!

Blast Off! celebrates a unique brand of freedom in songwriting from the sillier tracks such as “Moustaches” and “Vending Machines” (which is about the random stuff you’d find in a Japanese vending machine) to the touching, “From a Frown,” a sweet ode to a Teddy Bear. Raw and pure in the spirit of great indie D.I.Y. records, the dimensions of youthfulness, silliness, and wonder are all displayed clearly in the their musicality and Trevor’s careful lyrics. One is reminded of the playfulness and pop-rock sensibilities of Recess Monkey, The Aquabats, and even Weird Al Yankovic. The opportunity to pick the brain of Trevor himself made me feel like one super-curious kid talking to another as fans of the same musical scene and fans of each other.

MCJ: So what’s your story, guys? Who are you, where are you from and when did you start making family/kids music?

T: We’re two energetic 13-year-olds in Vancouver, Canada, making music for younger kids and their families! We just released our first album, Blast Off!, in October. I’m the front-leader of [The Zing Zangs], and I got into kids music when I started hosting an online kids radio station called GooberKidsRadio. The general concept for The Zing Zangs is indie pop/rock music that’s specifically made for kids to jump, sing, and dance around to. The key to it is the huge amount of imagination in each song!

MCJ: How did you first hear about and get into Kindie?

T: Sirius XM’s Kids Place Live (ch. 78) is what first got me into it. Elliot got into Kindie because he got dragged into it.

MCJ: So tell me more about the concept of Blast Off!?

T: Blast Off! released on October 2. It’s superhero themed, we go aboard the ZZ spaceship as “Commander Rock” and “Elliot the Ninja.” The key to the songs on this album is the actions. We recently played our first concert, and it was amazing to see how much energy pumps out of the kids! We’re proud to say the audience was covered in sweat! We strived to put all of that energy from a Zing Zangs’ concert into the album.

MCJ: Do you have any evil villains to go with your superhero theme?

T: I’ll tell you what – just for fun – at one of our upcoming concerts we plan on an evil monster to come and try and crash the show. Then we’ll have a rock-off. It will be so epic.

MCJ:  How did you get all these cool Kindie guests on it? Quite an impressive list. What was it like working with such talent?

T: It was an honor to work with such great people in the industry and hear our songs with different voices singing them! I was helped by excellent people in the business – like managers, publicists, live show booking management, you name it. I dreamt up “Looking Up at the Stars” last year as a finale song for an album…and to hear all of my favorite Kindie artists that I grew up listening to, singing all together at once, it was truly amazing.

MCJ: How do you guys know each other, in real life? And how did you start making songs?

T: A lot of the songs like “Moustaches” and “Vending Machines” were songs from old homemade movies we made a few years back. We drew comics all the time at school, so we often wrote theme songs for “Pizza Man,” “Kraft Dinner Man,” and “Taco Man.” We’re currently planning out a music video for an unreleased song about [me and Elliot] meeting each other on the playground as 7-year-old kids. This is actually how the two of us met in real life, so I know it will be cool to be able to make [the video], because we’ll both be behind the camera.

MCJ: It was so much fun making the track “Super Speed” with you guys. I love all the synths in the beat during my rap. And I’m happy to say I can’t get the song out of my head! The video looks great, too, especially since we haven’t met once! 

MCJ: Basically, I sent some green screen footage of myself rapping. We had me racing in a car as I did my thing. That’s me with a glass pot lid as a steering wheel! Tell us about the process from recording the song and video to working long distance with a Los Angeles artist. Also, what programs do you use?

T: It was so cool to hear your track over our synth sounds and handmade drum beat! The process to make the song involved sending you (Mista Cookie Jar) some basic keywords and lyrics for the rap – and then you sent it back to us “funktified.” That’s a word that will always be used in my personal vocab from now on.

T: “Super Speed” turned out just as we wanted it to be – a homemade-looking indie video of us chasing a cartoon monster around Elliot’s complex. Plus, as a bonus, we had you driving around in a cartoon race-car! The video made its premiere on The Cool Rockin’ Daddy Video Show. For the “Super Speed” video, I animated all of the graphics, titles, and characters with FCPX.

MCJ: Who played what instruments?

T: I played guitar, drums, keyboards, synthesizers, bass, and kazoo solos. We had occasional lead guitars by Jason Didner (of the Jungle Gym Band) and Todd McHatton. And Elliot jumped around to it.

MCJ: What is your songwriting process as a band and individually?

T: I usually come up with the idea for a song first. Then, I try to make up catchy lyrics. And then I write a chord progression that not only sounds good, but is kind of hard to play (that way I can show off when I play concerts)! Although, most of the songs on Blast Off! were written by me and Elliot when we first met.

MCJ: Tell us about your radio show, GooberKidsRadio. How did you get into that business?

T: I’ve always loved entertaining people and when I discovered Kids Place Live it made me want to host my own show…so I found a site that let me broadcast, and that was that.

T: GooberKidsRadio was created in June 2012. I’ve always had a love for entertaining people, and I had a love for Kindie, so when I found a site that let me broadcast live, I immediately started. The show picked up quite a few listeners. I just reached 11,000, I think.

T: Me being a perfectionist, I deleted all of the old episodes and restarted this year with a fresh new format, featuring new music, kid-callers, giveaways, interviews, birthday shout-outs, and characters. Now, with the busyness of The Zing Zangs, I don’t really have the time to sit back and listen to all my favorite artists anymore. So I’m not only hosting it for the listener’s enjoyment, I’m dancing and singing along as I get to hear it too. You can listen to the live broadcast every Thursday at 8pm EST/5pm PST free on GooberKidsRadio.com

MCJ: What are some of your favorite musicians, kids music or otherwise, and how has it influenced you as artists?

T: I have always been into music that doesn’t put people down or anything like that – which is why I automatically liked [Kindie music]. I grew up with The Wiggles, and when I discovered the Imagination Movers, my mind flew out of my head and into the TV. I was taken to a lot of local kids music concerts in Vancouver, like Bobs and LoLo, The Kerplunks, Fred Penner, The Doodlebops. For Kindie influences, I’d say the first few artists that I discovered in the Kindie world were Recess Monkey, Caspar Babypants, Justin Roberts and, of course, The Pop Ups. When I take my mind off of kids stuff, Elliot and I are both really into the rock genre, although I’m more of a new alternative guy like The Black Keys, They Might Be Giants, and Presidents of the United States of America (“PUSA”). Elliot is into the classics like AC/DC and Def Leppard.

T: The Aquabats actually inspired us to make our first album superhero- themed. We were both blown away by their true rock power and zaniness at the same time. That’s the definition of awesome!

MCJ:  What are your peers listening to these days?

T: Oh goodness! I think like Rihanna, Lorde, and all the other computer-generated music is big these days.

MCJ:  I love how you’re into music that doesn’t put others down. And I think the Zing Zangs go in- line with that. You guys bring a sense of empowerment that is inviting for anyone who seeks it, which is a rare and beautiful thing in this day and age. 

MCJ: In your songs there’s something else beyond the music, often a simple or quirky subject matter, like “Vending Machines” about Japanese vending machines or even, “From a Frown,” about your Teddy Bear (which is quite a touching song), that is relatable to so many people — and then the music brings a certain excitement, drama, or magic to that subject. 

T: I totally agree. That’s what being zany is about. Not ‘trying to be’ zany. Just ‘being’ it. You get it?

MCJ:  Can you speak on being in touch with your “inner zany,” if u will? How does it affect your interactions with others, like friends, peers, fans, public or otherwise? I think zaniness just helps me remember how I don’t fit in – which is PERFECT. Why would I want to be just like the guy across from me in the hallway?

MCJ: For me, being involved in a zany creative process with others, or even sharing a culture, like the Kindie, creates a bond. Having similar humor or appreciation for a certain kind of zany brings an automatic comfort with someone, without even having to “get to know” them, you feel me? 

T: Exactly.

MCJ:  You guys bring a primal joy with your music. You can call it the Zing Zang, like a zany fun Yin and Yang. But with more of a Zing of course. How bout Yin Yang Funktified? 

T: I think that’s what our next album should be called. Yin/ Yang Funktified.

What’s coming up next for The Zing Zangs?

T: Stay tuned for Mr. Runklestunk (our puppet band manager)’s very own web-series. And also coming up this year (2014), we plan to release our second CD. We’re going for a much simpler approach this year. It will not be superhero-themed but don’t worry, the silliness is all there. Original songs by “Trevor and Elliot” (not Commander and Ninja), plus a bunch of amazing special guests. It will focus more on the kids’ perspective of life, like not wanting to go to bed, and making a best friend. You can stay on top of the news at our website thezingzangs.net. Also, please check out Blast Off! on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You ca also purchase the album from our store. Thanks, Cookie!

MCJ: And here are some quickies.

T: Bring it!

MCJ: Favorite comedian?

T: Bill Cosby’s great!

MCJ: Cosby is definitely one of my favorite’s too. Favorite Weird Al album?

T: “Alpocalypse” 2011

MCJ: Heard good things about that one! Just listened to his Marc Maron interview. Al Yankovic is the man. Favorite Recess Monkey album?

T: Gosh. One of the older ones. Like “Field Trip”.

MCJ: What are you listening to right now?

T: The keys on my keyboard typing this answer. In reality, I’m listening to Zooglobble’s November playlist. Did you see that “Super Speed” got first track? Yes!

MCJ: Any books or novels on your minds?

T: Diary of a Wimpy kid. Jeff Kinney gets me. That and everything by Jarrett J Krosozcka.

MCJ: Poetry fan?

T: Shel Silverstein is inspiring.

MCJ: Feel the same way. Favorite board game?

T: Mo-No-Po-LEE!

MCJ: Favorite Cartoons?

T: MAD, Phineas and Ferb, pretty much all.

MCJ: Do u like Adventure Time?

T: Oh wait, AT is the Bomb!

MCJ: What about Avatar the Last Airbender?

T: Sorry, but there’s only one cartoon better than Adventure Time. You can’t pull me away from an episode of Regular Show.

MCJ: Do you like sketch comedy? Monty Python? Or vaudeville stuff?

T: Back around 2007 there was a small Canadian community access channel show – you know those types? The ones that probably took around $50 to create? There was this homemade sketch comedy show called “That’s So Weird” and it cracked me up.

MCJ: All time favorite album:

T: Always into the latest album that comes out by one of my favorite artists.

MCJ: All time favorite song:

T: There’s nothing better than rockin’ out to Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” in your jammies.

MCJ: Agreed.

Check this out: 123s and ABCs – Ella Jenkins

Posted in Album Reviews, Reviews by

UnknownWhen the announcement of Pete Seeger’s passing was made, I was in the midst of preparing a review about Ella Jenkins‘ latest release with Smithsonian Folkways. As I read the obituaries of and tributes to Seeger, I thought more about the profound effects each of these artists have had on audiences of all ages. In light of my reflections, it occurred to me how many parallels there are between these two legends. To start, each has earned a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for their musical contributions. Along with this honor, they each have had a rich recording history with Smithsonian Folkways, releasing a legacy that will forever set an example for others within the music and educational fields. Not to mention the multigenerational and cultural impact their music has had on children and families throughout the world. Most importantly, what ties them together the most is that they have lived their lives with purpose and that purpose has been fueled by a sense of pride and joy, coupled with the belief that music is meant to be shared.

On her 34th release with Smithsonian Folkways, Ella’s joyful spirit is captured once again. The songs on 123s and ABCs are simple and highly interactive, presented mostly in Ella’s signature call-and-response style and provide layers of benefits for young listeners. The album contains 16 wonderfully curated tracks aimed at teaching letters, counting and basic math (addition and subtraction). The secondary benefits seek to build language skills, strengthen memory, and develop rhythm through a variety of musical games. And, remaining loyal to Ella’s multicultural appreciation, 123s and ABCs presents songs in four languages – English, Spanish, Swahili, and Yiddish.

The album opens with “Easy as ABC,” an alphabet game that encourages listeners to associate a word with a letter and then use that word in a sentence. As Ella sings, “C is for caring/ And I care a lot about you,” it’s hard not to feel comforted by her sincerity. It is this line that captures Ella’s authenticity and loving heart.

“Eight Clay Pigeons” and “And One and Two…” are fun counting songs that encourage movement while “ABCs” is a sweet little chant that underscores the positive effects music has on learning: “123, 123 were the very first numbers that were taught to me…/ ABC, ABC were the very first letters that were taught to me/ XYZ, XYZ were the very last letters that were taught to me.”

123s and ABCs is another fine example of how wonderful it feels to sing along together. Ella is a teacher, a leader and a friend who has devoted her life to sharing that which has enlightened, educated and enriched so many children’s (and grown-ups’) lives. The following quote perfectly describes Ella’s grace and thoughtful approach to music making. (source: NPR):

“I think most people like music and most children like music, and there’s a variety of music. But whatever you happen upon with something that you really feel that you really like, I’d say listen to it and listen to it often. And if you want to kind of emulate it, if you want to try to repeat or imitate, do it in a way that when you’re sharing it, someone else is going to think it’s beautiful, too. So there are a lot of wonderful composers around the world, and sometimes we get a lot of them right here in Chicago. But anyway, when you get these and you start to sing or you can dance like the people that you have heard or watched, then put your best performance forward, and I think the children will do the same.”

123s and ABCs is highly recommended for all ages and can be purchased through Amazon, iTunes and the Smithsonian Folkways Site. 

Bonus: Smithsonian Folkways is also offering a free download of the track “Easy as ABC.” Read more on Ella Jenkins on her Smithsonian Folkways Artist Spotlight page.

Singled Out: “You’re Bound To Look Like A Monkey” – Papa Crow

Posted in Reviews, Upcoming Release by

papa-crow-snowstormFollowing the awesome rendition of Manu Chao’s “Bongo Bong,” Jeff Krebs, aka Papa Crow, has a new single from his upcoming mini-album, Monkeylele: songs about monkeys performed on the ukulele.

“You’re Bound To Look Like A Monkey” is based on a song that Krebs’ grandpa used to sing for kids back when he was a kid. It’s a fun track that is clever and….cute. The lyrics refer to monkeys in an unexpected way that serve as a good reminder not to take life too seriously (especially if we are bound to look like a monkey). “You’re “Bound To Look Like A Monkey” is a sprightly, knee knocking little tune. Another promising glimpse into what is proving to be a great album so far.

Kidquake!: The Not-Its! celebrate kid power!

Posted in Interviews by

276663_411718105569109_1977145708_n

I recently attended a presentation at my daughter’s school called “The Celebration of Learning.” The entire presentation was focused on young change makers, i.e. kids who are making positive change for the greater good. Each grade level (K – 5) researched, interviewed and spoke about a change maker and the outcome(s) of their efforts. It was incredible to hear these little voices talk passionately about how they were inspired by these young people. In some cases, there were kids showcasing what they are personally doing to give back, i.e. creating a petition to save a sacred Nature Area in California, hosting a bake sale to benefit the ASPCA, standing outside a homeless shelter (with mom) doling out food on cold nights, raising money to help build a school in Africa, and even raising money to name a sea turtle (“Wilson”) from Costa Rica and track another sea turtle (“Chubby”) from Bermuda who has traveled 600 miles since birth.

The Not-Its!, one of Seattle’s most popular kindie rock bands, refers to these acts of kindness as “KidQuakes.” Or, as bassist Jennie Helman describes it, “A KidQuake! describes an act of good, by a kid. It’s that seismic energy kids have that translates to dance, smiles and good times.” Lead singer, Sarah Shannon continues,“Kids are powerful, they have some serious mojo to make good things happen.”

When I first heard about what The Not-Its! were doing, I was blown away. As the parent of a child who is regularly disgusted by litter on the streets (and has walked around our neighborhood with a mini broom and a bag picking up garbage), I can personally attest to experiencing that serious kid mojo. The innocence and sense of justice kids have is incredible and something I have always been intrigued by. As one of the students**, age 10, put it: “I believe [kids are the ones who will make changes in this world] because children can have more open hearts. They believe in things that grown ups don’t. If you told a grown up that humans could fly, they wouldn’t believe you because of ‘course’ humans can not fly.  But if you told a young child he would think ‘could humans fly? Maybe if you…’ They would think of ideas. That is why the younger generation is going to save this world.” Kid power!

I love that The Not-Its!, one of our favorite kindie rock bands, is working hard to “showcase and inspire kids who are doing good.”

In my interview below, Sarah and Jennie talk more about the inspiration for one of 2013’s best albums, KidQuake!, what The Not-Its! are doing to highlight all of these amazing changemakers, and how you can become a part of The Not-Its! Nation!

Kids Can Groove: Can you explain the inspiration for and concept of a Kidquake?!

Sarah Shannon: I heard this heart-wrenching story about a little girl who passed away in a car accident here in the Pacific Northwest. When she was alive, she heard that a lot of people in Africa didn’t have access to clean drinking water, so she started a fundraising drive (in lieu of birthday presents) to help build a well in Africa. After she died, her story went viral, funds started pouring in and she raised millions of dollars for clean water.

After I cried for about an hour and a half, I started to think about how amazing it was that this little girl’s spirit – her instinct to do good – was so potent that she continued to make something huge happen even after she passed.

During the time I heard this story, my band, The Not-Its!, were in the process of writing songs for our fourth record. We had a rough little gem that we were calling, “Earthquake.” Boom! The creative muses began swarming and we thought “KidQuake! Kid power for good!” We wrote the song, “KidQuake!,” but then started thinking this needs to be something more. A movement, perhaps? A way to showcase and inspire kids who are doing good.

Jennie Helman: In that moment, KidQuake! took on a whole new meaning. Kids have the power to do good and what better way to help them realize their potential than through music.

KCG: Since you started promoting this movement, have you seen or been a part of any KidQuakes?

JH: Many organizations have already established ways for kids to get involved. This summer, The Not-Its! partnered with Seattle Children’s hospital, who had already published materials on ways kids could raise money for the hospital, i.e. lemonade sales, bake sales, clothing/book drives. The Not-Its! had the opportunity to help promote a lemonade sale at a nearby elementary school, run solely by kids, where proceeds went towards the hospital. The below clip was shared on our Facebook site, which is another example of ways we have been able to promote weekly stories of Kid Power for Good on a national and local level.

KCG: Have there been any KidQuakes within your own families?

SS: I share all of the stories we showcase on Facebook with my kids. This past summer, my daughter’s CampFire troop came up with a KidQuake! of their own. Of course summer is prime lemonade stand time, and we were able to raise money for charity, as a result.

JH: Just last week my 8 year old daughter, Jaden, and I, participated in a fundraising event and 5K obstacle course in which we raised over $250 for LLS (the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society). The event was called the Winter Pineapple Express and we had to each carry a pineapple the entire route. For all our neighbors and friends who donated, we cooked soups or plates of cookies as a Thank You, depending on the amount they donated. Last year she and I did The Big Climb where we raised money towards LLS. Together, we climbed 69 flights of stairs at the tallest building in Seattle. I know that Jaden has been proud of her contributions and is starting to realize the difference she’s making with each KidQuake!. Last Christmas, all my girls spent one Saturday making art and selling it throughout the neighborhood. Their KidQuake! contributions totaled $2.88 and they were more than proud to deliver it to the local Food Bank.

KCG: Where can families participate in and read more about this movement?

SS: We are working on ways to build a social network for families to inspire/encourage each other to do good. In the meantime, we will be showcasing and inspiring families through our KidQuake and Not-Its! Facebook pages, The Not-Its!’ website and live shows.

JH: My hopes are — To generate a movement that The Not-Its! Nation – kids, parents and caretakers – feel connected to and can experience together; to appreciate kids for their acts of good and recognize how the power of kind acts can inspire kids and others towards a more positive approach in life. And, we want to showcase stories that will motivate kids and parents to do more good in their communities.

Dig what you’ve just read? Check out the song that inspired this movement, along with the the rest of the album through the Bandcamp widget below. Do you have a KidQuake! of your own? Share it in the comments below and spread the word!

**The 10-year-old student who I quoted nominated and awarded Pavan Raj Gowda who founded the organization Green Kids Now, Inc when he was 8 years old. Green Kids Now, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity organization purposed to reach youth of all ages around the world to raise awareness on environmental issues, and encourages children to learn, innovate, take action, and share ideas and experiences.

View this: “Santa Flying In Your Sleigh” – Todd McHatton + FREE DOWNLOADS through Dec 25, 2013.

Posted in Downloads, Video by

0000570757_100

Todd McHatton has a new video for “Santa Flying In Your Sleigh” from his Christmas Songs album. I love this song because it echoes some of the curiosity and wonder kids have about Santa and Christmas. It’s as though McHatton was inspired by his own children’s questions when he wrote this song, which makes it so endearing and totally relatable. My daughter is approaching 5 and lately she has been asking the same kinds of questions that McHatton sings about here like “Santa Flying in your sleigh/ How do make it all the way/ Around the world? And Santa please tell me one more thing/ How do you know just what to bring/ Every boy and girl?” There is something about McHatton’s music that is so comforting. I frequently find myself thinking “yes, this is exactly the way music should sound.” And you are more than likely to feel exactly the same way.

As a special Christmas bonus, Todd McHatton is offering FREE downloads of all his albums (even Marvy Monstone’s album is available for FREE!) through Dec 25. Make sure you grab them through McHatton’s Bandcamp site or via the Bandcamp widget below. This is a rare and special opportunity. Also, check out my post about giving merchandise in addition to music this year. The post features Mchatton’s book, Grass Stained Twilight, a collection of stories, songs, pictures, and poems that echoes the likes of Shel Silverstein. Download the album and grab a copy of the book for an excellent gift.

View This: “Another Good Year” and “Dinosaur” by Lori Henriques

Posted in Video by

Another-Good-Year-Music-Video-Photo-Made-by-Joel-and-Lori-Henriques

Lori Henriques and her brother, Joel Henriques of Made by Joel, put together an artful video for Lori’s new holiday track, “Another Good Year.” The video was filmed with Joel’s son and daughter drifting paper snowflakes around the screen. The slow movement of the snowflakes in combination with Lori’s bouncy piano and jazzy vocals creates a sense of joy and peace. And the DIY simplicity of this video will no doubt make you want to grab some scissors and start carving out a few snowflakes of your own. In anticipation of this crafty craving, Joel posted a how-to link on his blog which features easy snowflake making instructions for kids (and their grown-ups).

“Another Good Year” isn’t the first time that these two incredibly talented siblings have produced a masterpiece. Lori recently published a video, featuring live drawing by Joel, for her song “Dinosaur.” In this song, Lori’s voice has a certain tenderness that is simply heartwarming as she lovingly sings to the former free roaming reptile. “Dinosaur” is featured on Lori’s 2013 release, The World is a Curious Place, which is filled with curiosity and wonder. The album is available through Lori’s store, Amazon and iTunes.

You can learn more about the making of this video here, and grab templates to make your own Paper City Dinosaur set here. 

Bonus: Made by Joel provides instructions and templates on his website for a variety of art, craft and handmade education projects. The site is extremely user friendly with easy navigation that directs you to crafts broken down by age, as well as free printable activities. Music + art = happiness! Check it out!

Holiday single: “Santa and Baby (Santa’s Little Helper)” – Debbie and Friends

Posted in Downloads, Video by

960217_10202785339659197_567911192_nI posted this up on Facebook but also wanted to give it a shout out here because I dig the message in this song. I also love the colorful animation for this charming tale about a young pup wanting to be Santa’s little helper. Whether four-legged or not, I think all “young pups” will relate to wanting to be a part of Santa’s crew.

Debbie Cavalier of Debbie and Friends drew her inspiration from her friend’s dog, Baby (pictured here thanks to Beth Oram Photography), and the grooves of the Spin Doctors, which works nicely in this song.

You can also stream the song for free via the Soundcloud widget below:

More music for the holidays 2013

Posted in Reviews, Video by

DSC_0145

Christmas is right around the corner! Hopefully things are starting to slow down a bit for many of you as Christmas shopping is nearing completion. Although this is still a hectic period for me, listening to holiday music seems to bring me back to what this time of year truly means. So, I have another little list of songs that captures the joy, peace and even humor of the season. Enjoy!

4058-Sunny Christmas Cover Art med resRenee & jeremy – “Sunny Christmas”

This song was featured in my Songs for the Season Part 1 holiday list last year but I didn’t have a video to post, until now. “Sunny Christmas” is the title track from a 6 song EP that Renee & Jeremy released last year. The EP is done in Renee & Jeremy’s soft, peaceful style. I believe I referred to their music as “comfort food for your soul.” In the video for “Sunny Christmas,” R&J reached out to fans to put together a beautiful montage that captures the harmony, love and togetherness of the holiday season. Sunny Christmas can be sampled and purchased through Renee & Jeremy’s site, CDBaby, iTunes and Amazon.

_

457666934_640Zak Morgan – “Snow Day”
Zak Morgan’s music is good, and that’s putting it mildly. Zak Morgan’s videos are reallllyyyyyy gooood! In many ways, it’s as if the two share a symbiotic relationship; The videos bring to life the spirit and wit of the songs. After last year’s awesome Halloween video for “The Case of the Dry Markers,” which featured Bootsy (“Bootzilla”) Collins, Morgan comes back with “Snow Day,” featuring a life-sized chicken, although that is just one of the many highlights of this video. “Snow Day” can be found on Morgan’s 2012 release Barber of the Beasts which is available through the Zak Morgan store, Amazon and iTunes.


a1093294532_2Pointed Man Band – “All That Krampus Wants (is High-Fives! for the Holidays)”
From the Portland, Oregon band, a song about Krampus who has been misunderstood. Ready for redemption, all he wants is a high-five, fist bump or five fingered endorsement to set him on a good path for the holidays. That’s fair, right? Although this song is a little more indie than kindie, it (and Pointed Man Band) gets points for taking a clever approach to holiday music. It was released last year, but their full-length debut, Swordfish Tango, made it out this year. Both are definitely worth a listen. You can purchase this single and Swordfish Tango through the Bandcamp widget below.

_

poochamungas2Poochamungas – “Santa’s Eating Pancakes”
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and Santa knows it. As he prepares to drive his sled, he’s eatin’ up some pancakes. Featuring vocals from the band Strain Busy Sky, Poochamungas celebrates Christmas in a charitable way as the proceeds from the sale of this track will go to the Ignite the Spirit Fund. Ignite the Spirit Fund aims to provide assistance, support and food for families of the Chicago Fire Department. You can purchase “Santa’s Eating Pancakes” from Amazon, CDBaby and iTunes.

staceypeasley3Stacey Peasley – “Under the Tree” and “Frosty the Snowman”
Stacey Peasley is a Boston-based musician who has over 15 years of professional singing experience. A teacher for ten years, Peasley channels her love of children and music into an engaging experience filled with catchy songs. Just in time for the holidays, Peasley has 2 singles for fans to enjoy. “Under the Tree,” is a bouncy, country tune that supports sibling love as one child writes to Santa telling him not to “forget about my brother/ even though he can be naughty/ he deserves some presents under the tree.” “Frosty the Snowman,” doesn’t stray too far from the original, but Peasley’s soaring vocals add depth along with a warm and cozy feeling. You can purchase these tracks from Amazon, CDBaby and iTunes.

mzi.labvjbab.170x170-75Key Wilde and Mr. Clarke – “(Sing a Song of) Christmas Cheer”
This one is an oldie but goodie! From their 2011 release Sing Songs of Christmas Cheer, comes a video filled with Wilde’s quirky (but highly appealing) illustrations. Get ready to Fa La La all the way to the new year with this catchy song done in KWMC’s beloved alt-country style. It’s like the “Twelve Days of Christmas” but without the counting and a little more spunk. You can purchase this album through Amazon, CDBaby and iTunes.

_

treetopsisters7Treetop Sisters – “Nicki and the Crew”

The Treetop Sisters are a trio of girls ages 11 and under. In their video for “Nicki and the Crew,” they merrily sing about St. Nick (humorously referred to as “Nicki”) and his crew on the night before Christmas. It’s a party up in the North Pole! Backed by some jazzy, be-bop flair, the Treetop Sisters will have your family dancing ’round the Christmas tree for sure. You can purchase this song through Amazon, CDBaby and iTunes.

Rockaboo Pre-K music and movement by The Not-Its!

Posted in Reviews by

51cb59cae4b014f2c6e33bcb

Get your little rockstars ready to move and groove! The-Not-Its! are expanding their horizons! Seattle’s kindie rockers have developed a Pre-K music and movement class called Rockaboo. Starting January 9, 2014, this 10 week series will be lead by lead singer Sarah Shannon and held in the heart of Seattle at The Wallingford Boys and Girls club.

Rockaboo was developed by Sarah and guitar player Tom Baisden. Each of these artists bring a ton of experience to the table. Sarah is a Seattle mom trained in classical music from The University of Maryland who can boast serious indie cred as lead singer of 90’s Sup Pop group, Velocity Girl, while Tom is a a special education teacher at an arts immersion elementary school.

The mission of Rockaboo is to enrich children’s lives and connect families through music and movement. The science is indisputable, music boosts brain development. In this class (with a maximum of 12 children plus their caregivers), children will learn about dynamics (loud/soft), pitch (high/low), and tempo (fast/slow). Most importantly, in Rockaboo, families will revel together in the joy of music!

You can find more information, and sign up at www.rockaboomusic.com.

The final stretch – Brady Rymer and Randy Kaplan Kickstarters ending soon!

Posted in Reviews, Video by

Both Brady Rymer and Randy Kaplan are ready to make their next children’s albums and have launched a Kickstarter campaign in hopes to support the recording and production process. With just 4 days left in Brady’s project and 7 days in Randy’s project, there is still time to donate and show your support for these hard working artists. Both Brady and Randy are distinguished children’s artists that regularly produce quality music with depth and a whole lotta soul. Plus, the music just sounds amazing! For those new to Kickstarter: Kickstarter is a fundraising site that allows fans, friends, family and the general public to back a creative endeavor, such as the making of an album. 

Both Randy and Brady have been a big part of our lives since my daughter (almost 5) was an infant, but they both have been making music for much longer than that. As such, I have backed both of these campaigns.

With that, I encourage you to check out each campaign, consider showing your support and ultimately  becoming a part of the music you want to hear.

JUST SAY HI! Brady Rymer’s new album for families that ROCK – Brady is a soulful singer with a tender heart and a ton of spirit. His music is uplifting, engaging and captures the spirit of good ole rock n’ roll. In addition to receiving a 2009 Grammy nomination, Brady has received awards and accolades for his work on Love Me For Who I Am, an album inspired by children affected by autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and related disorders. Just Say Hi! will be Brady’s 7th CD and it promises to be a good one! As Brady mentions on his site: “Just Say Hi! is the most personal batch of songs I’ve written; full of kindness, friendship, and love of family.  Songs about things like falling in love with the ice cream girl, learning to play grandma’s red piano, and just crankin’ up your little light of love and lettin’ it shine.”

Throughout his campaign, Brady has been posting updates with the latest one being a snippet of a video for the song “Ice Cream Girl,” inspired by Brady’s wife who drove a Good Humor ice cream truck as a summer job. Brady also offers some fun incentives with a broad range of pledge opportunities. Just in time for the holidays, Brady is offering 3 holiday tracks at $1 or more as a thank you for pledging. They are great songs! One of our favorites is “Untangling the Christmas Lights.” Other incentives include monster stickers and friendship bracelets, t-shirts, personalized and advanced copies of the CD, singing on the record and for those interested in pledging at a higher level, Brady is giving away his first Gibson guitar. So check it out! Even just a few dollars will help!

Randy Kaplan’s new not-JUST-for-kids CD – Randy Kaplan is regularly referred to as a folk troubadour within the children’s genre. His influences run deep within the folk and blues genres and he skillfully delivers songs that are filled with healthy doses of wit and charm. Randy is a master at combining song and storytelling which is directly linked to his uncanny ability to be honest, humble and totally authentic. His lyrics are clever and written in such a way that tickles the funny bone of both adults and children, while also warming their hearts with a rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young,” which was selected for the Putumayo Kids American Playgound album. His most recent album, Mr. Diddie Wah Diddie, a collection of Country Blues and Ragtime for kids, received high honors and awards including being selected by People magazine (August 2012 issue) as one of 8 Cool Kids’ Albums Now!. Randy also regularly appears on critics lists as one of the top children’s performers to see in concert. And I can personally say that is absolutely accurate! Randy is a natural in front of a crowd and is usually surrounded by groups of children who can be heard shouting, laughing and even yodeling along with him. Randy makes music that he enjoys and feels confident that his audience will enjoy.

Which brings me to Randy’s Kickstarter project. With additional support, Randy will be able to create his 13th album to date (his 5th not-JUST-for-kids album). On his Kickstarter page, you can listen to clips for popular songs from previous albums including “No Nothing,” a song about a monkey who was raised by ducks (one of our favorites!) and the “The Mosquito Song,” among others. Randy also explains how he has been producing family records up until now and what his plans are for making the next one. Backers can also receive advanced mp3s or copies of the new CD, the new CD with a special thank you mentioned in the credits, or even a personal concert via Skype with Randy. There are a broad range of incentives here as well, so take a look and consider helping to make the number 13 a lucky one for Randy!

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1601348535/randy-kaplans-new-not-just-for-kids-cd