Kimya Dawson
Alphabutt
© 2008 K Records
When you think of most kids’ music, some words that might come to mind are “fun,” “simple” and “creative.” Kimya Dawson’s music can be summed up the same way, but her tunes are rarely mistaken for kids’ songs. The songstress for most of the Juno soundtrack (now with a child of her own) has unleashed her talent on the kids’ music world with Alphabutt. While her lyrics are suitable for kids, don’t expect Dawson to sacrifice any of her unique style. The title track gives kids a new song defining what each letter in the alphabet stands for. Some parents may find the song a little crude—not vulgar, but perhaps inappropriate for some children. Personally I find the album true to the mindset of kids. Plus, most of the songs are pretty darn funny; be sure and check out “Bobby-O,” a song about Fabio’s younger, skinnier brother. Dawson’s friends and their children assist with the singing duties.

Brian Vogan
Little Songs
© 2008 Brian Vogan
The trend lately for 20- and 30-something music educators is to write some kids’ tunes, record an album and spend their summers on the road. So far, all of the teachers who have tried this feat have successfully pulled it off—like Brian Vogan, a music teacher living in Seattle, whose debut album features songs all directly influenced by the children he visits with and teaches each week. Little Songs is geared mostly to the younger listeners—but don’t mistake this for overly juvenile or simple. Vogan’s expertise is early-childhood music, so this album will resonate with preschool and kindergarten kids. Vogan does a great job of seamlessly mixing various styles of music like indie (“That’s How a Pumpkin Grows”), rock (“Firefighter”) and country (“We Call it Fall”). Brian Vogan has hit the ground running with his first album. You don’t want to miss it.

Daria
Grandchildren’s Delight
© 2008 public domain and Daria Marmaluk-Hajioannou
Daria has a great knack of weaving classic children’s tunes with hints of world music. On her fourth release, Grandchildren’s Delight, Daria dips into the bin of classic music for kids to add her twist to songs such as “You Are My Sunshine,” “O Susannah” and “La Cucaracha.” Also included on the CD is one of my favorite folk songs, “Liza Jane.” (I’ve heard many artists perform this song and I believe I have yet to hear one that’s bad.) And don’t pass this off as yet another folk album. Yes, there are a handful of folksy songs, but it’s so much more than that. There are 15 tracks here to fuel your child’s love of music or kindle a new passion for music. Grandchildren’s Delight will stay an important part of your collection for years to come.

Visit Dave Loftin and have a serving from his cereal bowl at www.wawl.org and read his weekly playlists on SMCB.BlogSpot.com