Reviews (46)

Fun! Fun! Fun!
I bought this CD for my son when he was 15 months old to listen to because he gets fussy before mealtimes. He loves to listen to music and this CD does the trick. It is a lot of fun for him to hear the other little children singing. Adults might find the little children singing off key, but hey they are only little kids. We are not looking for perfection, just something for our childrens pleasure. Me son loves to hear the kids singing and it has even helped him become more verbal. I really like the creative updated version of many songs, especially the wheels on the bus. This really is a very nice CD and I would highly recommend it. Thanks

Best Toddler CD Around
This is my 4 year old niece's favorite cd! It's really a very fun cd, that the adults can also enjoy. The woman singer has a fun style of singing, and blended with the kid voices, it makes this cd a keeper. My niece's favorite songs on this cd are Wheels On the Bus, Where Is Thumbkin, I'm A Little Teapot and Monkeys on the Bed, and I agree, after repeated listenings, these songs really stand out and have a fun sound to them that the kids will really enjoy. Even for adults listening, these songs are very enjoyable to listen to!

I highly recommended getting this CD for your little ones, it's a wonderful traveling cd, if you happen to have a cd in your car, it does keep them occupied!

Must have CD...fun tunes, inexpensive, my son loves it!
We only had Raffi's Baby Beluga (great CD), and I was needing a change...fast! After seeing the generally positive reviews for this CD, I took a chance...only 7 bucks. My 1 year old absolutely loves it. Yes, it is a little folksy, but that's one of its good points. It jazzes up all the traditional favorites. I like that its not just a cd full of kids singing, that would grate on my nerves. There are parts where kids do sing at times; its really cute and my son claps when they come on. Yes, the lead singer is not Barbra Streisand, but her voice is perfectly fine for the material, and she's silly. My son gets especially fired up for Wheels on the Bus, Where is Thumpkin and Five Little Monkeys. I played the CD at his 1st birthday party, and the other kids hearing it for the first time were loving it. Anyway, the point is, kids love this cd, I only see great, big smiles. If you're looking for an easy going fun cd with all the fav's, this is it. I give it 4 instead of 5 stars because it could be a little longer. Also, for some great unconventional kid's cd's, check out They Might Be Giants "No!" and For the Kids (Barenaked Ladies, Sarah McLachlan). If you like folksy, Ralph's World, and Dan Zanes. Enjoy.

They won't stop playing it !!!!
The CD arrived today and I have already heard it 6 times...all the way through. My son and daughter LOVE it! I love it since I can sing to it and make them laugh! The songs are great and to hear some kids singing along makes it really cool to my kids. My son just went to bed and wanted it on his CD player...again! No parent should go without this CD!

True toddler favorite
My son (a toddler) loves this cd so much! It is one of the few alternatives to the Wiggles that he loves to listen to. The songs are bright and engaging. Although I originally bought this cd hoping it would have classic versions of old songs, I really like what they've done with them. The singers are obviously having a lot of fun. Unfortunately, my son loved "teapot", as he called it, so much that he eventually loved it to death (big scratch). We bought the 4 cd set put out by Music for Little People which has most of the songs from this cd plus 3 other cds. Unfortunately, the only song that the set doesn't have is "teapot". ... Read more

Amazon.com

For centuries the world over, mothers (and fathers) have been cradling, cooing, and crooning to babies and small children with song. There's scarcely a one of us that cannot recall a particularly gentle song a special someone sang for a wee self--to calm, soothe, and aid slumber. This tender music is to the soul what mother's milk is to the body, and we call it the lullaby. Rooted in age-old tradition, Lullaby: A Collection presents an even dozen lullabies from around the globe. Particularly beguiling are the African "Be Still My Child" by Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the traditional Spanish "A La Nanita Nana" as sung by Tish Hinojosa, and Bobby McFerrin's "Common Thread," which you may recognize as the theme from the American documentary Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt. Other featured artists include Sweet Honey in the Rock, Judy Collins, Derek Bell, and Loreena McKennitt. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Wonderful!
I bought a number of lullaby CDs to make mix tapes for my mommy-to-be friends, and this CD was by far the best. It includes international lullabies as well as more familiar tunes (in new arrangements), resulting in a rich and deep collection of different musical styles that is both soothing and enjoyable. This is not "toy" music that will eventually insult adult ears after repeated playings -- I don't have kids, but have been listening to it simply because it's good stuff. Don't buy trite, condescending music for your baby -- complex music (like classical music) is better for them anyway. This is an intelligent, sophisticated collection of lullabies that I can't recommend highly enough!

A wonderful CD to share with your child at bedtime
I bought this without knowing anything about it while looking for lullabies for my newborn daughter. It is a great collection of international lullabies that instantly became our favorite. The songs are beautiful and very soothing. The variety of languages and styles really works and all of the artists are great. It doesn't make a bit of difference if you understand the language that the performer uses or not--the love that you feel while rocking your child to sleep comes through in every song. We listened to this almost every night for months at bedtime. Now that my daughter is a toddler, it is great music for "quiet time" or nap time during the day. My gift now to the new babies we know is a kids cassette player and this tape--I love it that much!

I'd give it 6 stars if I could.....
This has been our favorite lullaby CD. We decided to listen to the CD about three months before the baby was born to "try it out". We listened to it every night from that day on! The songs are all relaxing. The music and voices (even if you don't understand what is being sung) are beautiful. If you want a CD with a nice variety of songs that exposes your child to different languages you will not be disappointed!

Get it, but ANGELS ALL AROUND works better for sleep
This is one of the best lullaby CD's you could get. It's much better than most of the other kind of smooth jazz type lullaby CD's.

It's top notch for quality. But it's not the most quiet and soothing.

The most quiet and soothing one is GENIE's ANGELS ALL AROUND.
I would definitely get that one and all 4 Genie CD's if you want to relax yourself or your child for real.

Pure Gold
We received this album as a gift and fell in love with it immediately. It works like a charm getting our little ones to sleep. It's also relaxing for adults to listen to. We never take a long car trip without this CD! ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Great Baby lullaby CD!!!
I bought this for my newborn baby partly so I could learn some lullaby songs to sing him myself. I would play it and sing along. We eventually had a few favorites, and I would at least sing our top three favorites every night (with or without the CD), but somethimes we'd sing all the songs with the CD. My husband would just play the CD and rock the baby. Many months later, after not having played it in a while, we took the CD with us on a trip out of town and when our "baby" got fussy during the long ride from the airport to our destination, we popped in the CD and put on the #1 favorite, and he was asleep in half a minute!!! Beautiful songs. Beautiful voice. "All through the night" is so beautiful it still makes me tear up.

Perfect!
I started playing this CD for my newborn and it is so beautiful I actually look forward to playing it over and over again. Tina Malia's voice is so rich and soothing it calms both me and the baby down almost instantly. I love singing along with it while rocking him and usually listen to a few more songs just for me after he's gone to sleep in my arms. A must buy!

puts baby & mommy to sleep!
This is a great CD, and Tina Malia has a gorgeous voice. The only problem is that I almost pass out while feeding my son when this CD is playing! Her rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" is especially beautiful.

Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful
We received this CD as a gift for my baby shower...Tina Malia's voice is incredibly beautiful. We listen to it over and over, not only does it help come the little one, it helps to calm mommy!

Incredibly beautiful music
This is music we can listen to over and over again. My 3 year-old loves it as she falls asleep - it never fails to calm her down.
Beautifully sung and arranged. Great selection of songs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Dust off your blue suede shoes and polish up the tail fins on the Chevy: this album transports listeners back to the 1950s and early 1960s with all-time classic rock & roll. Children will love the strong rhythms, (sometimes) silly words, and easy-to-follow vocals. Adults will enjoy the cruise down memory lane with megahits like "Rock Around the Clock," "Willie & the Hand Jive," "Rockin' Robin," and "Name Game." Retaining all the spunk and sparkle they did when rock was young, these digitally remastered tunes are ready to inspire a whole new generation of little boppers. --Deborah L. Moore ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A Child's Celebration of Rock 'n' Roll
My daughters and I love this CD. It is fun to sing along and we have a great time listening to it. I think that the songs provide my children with exposure to older music which is much different from the sounds they usually listen to. We really enjoy it for how fun and invigorating it is to listen to.

A rockin' good time!
This CD is so much fun for our daughter. Nothing beats those great ole tunes. You can't help but dance to this music with your child! My only complaint is there are a few songs that we skip over, but most of them are worth listening to time and time again.

Great fun.
My son loves this cd and I like it too.

Great tunes and parents love it too!
Our infant daughter finds this music very relaxing. It's great
"travel in the car" entertainment for both adults and children.
The music is all the old time favorites that everyone can sing along and it's a great collection. Makes a great gift for children and their parents.

My kids love it!
These are probably the songs my grandparents didn't want my parents listening to when they were kids. Oh, well. Change happens. These tunes are super fun for my grammar-school-aged children. They get such a kick out of the "Purple People Eater" that they have to play it for any new friend who comes over. They have had hours and hours or fun singing and dancing to these old classics from the early days of Rock 'N Roll. And parents will enjoy it, too. ... Read more

Amazon.com

What could possibly be cooler than hipping kids to some of the best pop music ever made? Music for Little People makes this project simple by producing a batch of the Beatles' sunniest songs performed by a prime adult band and your children's peers and slightly reworked in kid-friendly keys. The result is largely devoid of over-the-top cutesy-poo histrionics--these kids can really sing and the harmonies are quite commendable. Young listeners will be thrilled to sing along on the bouncy chorus of "Life Goes On," to count and do the alphabet on "All Together Now," and to distinguish the amusing sounds of a penny whistle, mandolin, and zither. Both Raffi and blues artist Eric Bibb make guest appearances, but the shining star at this party is child singer Bernie Steinberg, who takes lead on three tunes, including the touchingly performed "Mother Nature's Son" and the amazingly soulful "Birthday." --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Two thumbkins up!
While my kids love repetition, I myself was getting tired of "I'm a Little Teapot" and "Monkeys on the Bed", so when I stumbled on this CD I thought, "Great!" At first, I thought it was going to be original Beatle songs, with the Beatles actually singing, but it's not and actually I'm GLAD about that. My daughters (ages 3 and 1) don't know the Beatles, but they DO love to hear other children sing, offkey or not.

I only wish that the Beatles had written "Puff the Magic Dragon." It surely would have been included in this wonderful compilation.

Psssst! Hey, kid. . . .
Wait a minute. Considering the song selection, you might as well just make a tape or whatever of the originals, and throw 'The End' into the bargain.

Get the Beatles instead
I thought I had a pretty high threshold for kids music but this is really just bad. I even passed it around my office and solicited comments about which song was, in fact, the worst. I ended up mixing my own Beatles versions of these songs for my son. I'd recommend picking up the Beatles albums and skipping this.

Brings Kids and Parents together
"Beatles Songs for Kids" is an excellent way to close up the generation gap between parents and their children. The only thing that keeps me from giving this a perfect rating of 5 is the noticable absence of such hits as "Why Don't We Do it in the Road", "Happiness is a Warm Gun", and "Maxwell's Silver Hammer".

Please??????
First I know alot of people are saying that this is for kids and people shouldn't complain. But I do not see the point, its not like little kids have a particular attachment to the beatles. I'm sure that there is someone out there that is willing to write songs for this venue there is no reason to destroy classic songs to line the pockets of Michel Jackson(who owns the publishing rights to these songs).
And I also feel that songs like "with a little help from my friends" do not belong here, after all the song is about getting high with friends. Whats next? nine inch nails for kids featuring the song "closer". These songs aren't written for children, they are written for older people, introduce your kids to the beatles when they get a little more understanding for them. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This is a family album in the truest sense. With entertainers like Burl Ives, Danny Kaye, Pete Seeger, Loggins & Messina, Taj Mahal, and James Taylor performing some of their best-loved kids' titles, adults and children can share in the joy and fun of this multigenerational collection. Be it quacking with "The Ugly Duckling," singing along with folksy "This Old Man," bopping to the calypso beat of "The Banana Boat Song," or daydreaming to "House on Pooh Corner," every member of the family will find a favorite in this compilation of songs by the original artists. --Deborah L. Moore ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Excellent CD for kids & adults will like it too
This is one of our 2 year-old daughter's favorite CD's and it's also satisfying for adults as well. There are some old and popular favorites that I remember from being a child (Puff the Magic Dragon, Skip to my Lou, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Bannana Boat song...) and some songs new to me, but that we all love: Sweet Honey of the Rock's Little Red Caboose and James Taylor's Jelly Man Kelly are especially beloved. It also lends itself well to dancing. A good buy.

Collected past points way to future
This album is quite a compilation of favorites, time-tested songs performed by adult-popular artists of great musicianship. Kids start life new, so you can never go wrong with classics like these no matter how much the songs age.

I noticed that many reviewers were thankful in particular that this is a CD that remains enjoyable to them as adults while their kids play it over and over again, because of the excellent songs and top musicianship--these qualities are definitely missing from lots of kids music.

However, I can wholeheartedly recommend one artist whose music is rich in texture and variety, singable and is just as much fun for parents as kids; the underexposed Skip West has put out two stellar albums, 'Blue Sky City' and 'All Around the World', chock full of original songs to delight and expand little minds while having the musicianship and depth to keep parents sane on the 7th listen of the day. Enjoy :^) You can thank me later, hee hee.

Bundle With "Over The Rainbow With Joey" Book For Great Gift
This CD when given to a new parent with the beautiful board book, "Over The Rainbow With Joey" makes the perfect new baby gift. The classic soundtrack found on this CD with other favorites will be enjoyed by baby and parent and make lasting memories.

A CD that lasts
I bought this for my daughter when she was 6 months. Now she is four and my son is two and they still love it. "Little Red Caboose" is there absolute favorite. Plus, I love the original renditions of Puff and several others. A great CD, you will not be disappointed.

Absolutely Fabulous
My kids and I love singing along to all of these wondergul songs. I love to hear the singers that I know and recognize. I love Burl Ives, Danny Kaye, James Taylor the list goes on and on. It is a great addition to our music collection. We won't leave home without it. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Take a spicy Cajun tour through Louisiana's bayou country on Choo Choo Boogaloo! The musical scenery includes foot-stompin', two-steppin,' finger poppin' zydeco emblazoned with hot guitar licks, sassy accordion, and a dash of blues thrown in for good measure. Traditional titles, including "Get on Board," "Iko Iko," "Little Red Caboose," and "Cotton Fields," have been well adapted to zydeco style, while "Crawfish Song," "Mardi Gras Mambo," and "Give Me a Squeeze, Please" are right at home in this celebration of Cajun culture. Children will have a wonderful time moving with the new rhythms and exploring the sounds of various instruments used to create the unique zydeco style. --Deborah Moore ... Read more

Reviews (56)

This CD is SO much fun!
I wish that I could give this CD more than 5 stars! I'm from New Orleans, but my 8-month-old twins are growing up in the Midwest, so it's great to share some authentic Louisiana music with them. And they absoluately ADORE it. Their faces light up and they both start to dance when ChooChoo Boogaloo comes on, and one has even started to 'sing' along. It's also the kind of kids' CD that grownups can love -- very cute, very smart, and lots of fun. I've bought several as presents already. HIGHLY recommended!

The best in my son's collection
The first thing my son (age 3-1/2) does when he gets up in the morning is run to the stereo and put in this CD. It is on pretty much all day every day -- has been for about a month -- and I still love it. I love it even more than my Buckwheat Zydeco CD for grown-ups, partly because it has made my son such a music lover (and he can now recognize a number of instruments from having heard the tutorial on Choo Choo Boogaloo), and partly because it's great music. I just bought another copy for a birthday present.

great for kids of any age
I bought this for my daughter when she was 3 months old and would play it daily. When she was left with my husband while I was out she started to fuss, and as soon as he put this album on she quieted down and smiled! This is such a great album for kids, and for as many times as I've listened to it, I still love it. I wish there were more to enjoy.

Fantastic!
The song selection, recording quality, and performances are all fabulous. Our eight-month old loves it almost as much as his thirty-something parents. We listen to so many times that now we're planning to attend a cajun/zydeco festival! :)

My children LOVE this CD! Replaced Ralph's World
We have been huge Ralph's World fans, listening to Bottom of the Sea or Ralph's World OVER AND OVER AND OVER again. We received this for Christmas and now my 3-yr old son says " Let's listen to the Choo Choo Music!". And my 19-mth old jumps up and down excitedly. Their favorite is the first song. They could listen to that one exclusively- but I need a bit more variety than one song. :)
As an intro to each song, there is the conductor speaking, explaining the the Cajun or Louisiana influence on the following song. The kids barely pay attention to that at this point, but I find it interesting.
We will definitely be buying another Buckwheat Zydeco CD for ourselves soon and will buy this one as gifts for all our toddler friends.
Don't worry, RW isn't out of the picture yet. I sneak him in because I love the CDs so much. So do the kids. :) ... Read more

Reviews (10)

My daughter likes it, and I like it
For the money, this is a great CD. Yes, they have kids singing on it, and sometimes those kids aren't exactly Shirley Temple - if you are picky about that, then maybe it's not for you. But I don't think my little girl can tell the difference. She always quiets down to listen. The music itself is done well. The production is very good as well. Some of the songs are indeed quite catchy. One song, "Pick a Bale of Cotton", just stays in my head long after it's over...

It's a Hit!
I stumbled upon this CD in our local library for my 2 going on 3 year old daughter. She immediately fell in love with this CD! And I was not annoyed by the grown up singers or the children. (let's face it, most children's CDs can grate your nerves after a while). We took it with us for a road trip and she listened to it on her big brother's CD player. Talk about a quiet ride!! Who needs a DVD player in the truck?! We also used it as the background music at her third birthday party. It was a bonafide hit! All the kids loved it and all the mothers kept asking, "Where did you get this CD? It's great!" I'm buying two copies!

Rather Disappointing
I was interested in this CD for my infant daughter particularly because it has so many classic songs on it--many of which I've forgotten since I was young. However, the arrangements are pretty annoying; it's just not a pleasure to listen to. I'd suggest looking for something that's done better musically, even if the songs aren't standards. My daughter and I both enjoy Hap Palmer much more, for instance, even though his arrangements include new lyrics and interludes.

music
I bought this for a my friend's son's 1st birthday because he loves it when his mom sings songs to him. I thought I'd give her vocal cords a break & increase his repertoire. Mom & Dad both dislike the CD BECAUSE it's got kids singing. (Most small kids don't care about staying in tune and it gets annoying if you have good pitch, which both parents do.) Nick isn't so sure yet but he may change his mind. This is not the CD to buy if you're going to play it in the car unless you like listening to small children sing (picture the little kids' choir from church or pre-school programs). Needless to say I will not buy this CD for any of my other friends who recently had children.

Waste of money
Most of the CD has children singing - that could be cute but they don't pronounce the words properly and I don't want my daughter to learn to say "the wheels on the bus go wound and wound" ... Read more

Reviews (2)

What a wonderful CD to give as a present!
I love giving this cd as a gift, to teachers or childcare providers, or new moms. It's kids' music you can stand to hear over and over (and some of us know just how rare that is), and feel good about exposing kids to traditions and musical concepts they might not otherwise encounter. We listen to the numbers songs in the car, we sing the shoo-fly song when we go walking--it's been a gift to my little family to have these songs added to our lives.

Sweet Honey in the Rock is Fantastic!
Although folk isn't a style a music much heard by anyone but its devotees, there can be some real treasures in this section. Sweet Honey in the Rock is one of them. As a young teenager, I find that this music doesn't fit into the "fuddy-duddy" image that young people today think of as Folk. Sweet Honey provides you with cool, soulful tunes, with beat and fire to spare. Try listening to "Young and Positive", and see if that doesn't bolster your self-esteem. The complex harmonies appeal to me especially, since I am a singer, but to the uninitiated ear, they are pure ecstasy. This is a rare and amazing gem in the soup of today's music! ... Read more

Amazon.com

French is probably the only language in the world that can make the most trivial idea sound grandiloquent. Imagine what it can do when the poetic Romance language is set to children's songs. It entertains and educates, bien sûr (of course)! UniVerse ofSong: French is the fun and informative follow-up to UniVerse of Song: Spanish, and seems an ideal tool for starting second-language learning with elementary phrases and basic songs. Jean Rene and his versatile backing combo help make a handful of bilingual kids into lively teachers. It doesn't matter if your native tongue is English or French--the record playfully teaches kids both languages by using common French and English nursery songs such as "Frère Jacques," "Alouette," the ever-delightful "Sur le Pont d'Avignon," "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," "Wheels on the Bus," "London Bridge," and others. Along the way, listeners can also pick up useful expressions in French that sound, well, almost diplomatic. Now, bring on the Chinese and Russian versions of UniVerse of Song, and soon we can send kids to the UN Security Council. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Great CD - my kids loved it
The kids loved it. However, Global Village Kids has a French Nursery rhyme CD that I found that lists the lyrics seperately, now I can tell my two year old what the words mean, and they pick it up faster.

FANTASTIC!
I am amazed at just how much both my 2-1/2 year old girl and 9-1/2 month old son LOVE this CD! These are easily the best and most amusing renditions of Wheels on the Bus and Old MacDonald I've ever heard (Wheels on the Bus gets my little one laughing and waving his arms). And my girl has not only learned French words from the tape, she now asks me "What is the French word for ( )?" as we go about our day. This is FUN music!

Great French Introduction
My 3 year old and 1 1/2 year old boys love this CD! They are both learning the popular songs simultaneously in English and French, as am I. A great collection of songs, well sung and fun! Recommended for speakers of English who want their very young kids to start learning French without being intimidated.

mix of french and english
This is an audio CD mixing french as well as english traditional songs for children. It is 15 songs, with aditional 15 dialog where kids play translation betweem English and French which is an excellent way to encourage kids to speak French. The songs are very close to the heart, signed in both English and french, however most of French songs are by Rene, and the English are by Kids. All their voices are excellent, and you can easily follow them after few trials. I wished that The CD has the songs written, and to seperate the french from the english in seperate tracks.

Good Cd, but...........
This is a really good cd in that it actually introduceschildren to French......but I was very upset by the LACK OF French inthe songs. It's a great idea but there needs to be a lot more Frenchinvolved in the songs.....and I also noticed that the adult male singsmost of the French......while more of the children sing the Englishparts of the songs. This isn't fair considering it's a cd forchildren AND some of the child singers were from a Frenchinternational school. ... if MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE made a cd withthe same basic idea, only all in French with just the childrensinging. ... I'm sure a cd made this way would be a hit. The cd isgood to buy if you want to expose your children to French, though.Just don't expect there to be much French.....which means yourchildren won't be learning much of French. However, it's a great toolas a supplement. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The jewel in the crown in the Music for Little People catalog, Gift of the Tortoise is stunning in its beauty and uncompromising in its delivery of excellence. Expressed from the viewpoint of a very wise tortoise, the lush harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo are supported by renowned guitarist Johnny Clegg and storyteller Gcina Mhlophe, creating a captivating blend of Zulu lore, South African history, and that country's brave optimism in the post-Apartheid era. As the drama unfolds, the listener is drawn into the spell cast by this marvelous group of players as they carry out the chant of ancestral names on "Two Shelleni," the folk legend of the "Boy Who Turned into a Cat," and the classic "Mbube (the Lion Sleeps Tonight)." --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Gift of Excellent Music
This CD is a musical journey. Ostensibly a children's recording, it is rich in harmony and diversity of sound. Some songs sound hauntingly familiar -- possibly because the theme is one that children sing all around the world. The acapella voices are accompanied only by percussion and sometimes percussive vocal sounds. The entire album takes the form of a story -- each song progressing naturally into another. The finale, "In the Jungle" is the best rendition of this song that I have ever heard, and brought tears to my eyes! Incidentally, my musical experience is almost exclusively classical, and the Zulu harmony is now one of my favourite musical forms! Don't take my word for it -- listen to it, share it with a child, and watch his or her body respond to the gentle rhythms and patterns!

They called him Tortoise, because he taught us...
Like most Americans I first heard the majestic harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo when they sang on Paul Simon's "Graceland" album. "Gift fo the Tortoise: A Musical Journey through Southern Africa" provides more of the same in this collection of 13 South African children's songs. You will even find one that you will recognize, called "Mbube," but better known on this side of the ocean as "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." But when you listen to how Ladysmith Black Mambazo sings this familiar song, you will appreciate how their differences make it even better than what you have heard before. Gcina Mhlophe's provides the narration as Fudugazi the minstrel tortoise and introduces each song, providing a context for the children listening at home. "Gift of the Tortoise" presents not just the music but the culture of South Africa. But while this album was clearly put together for the "Music for Little People" series, it proves equally captivating for adults. I have always enjoyed vocal harmonies, from the Everly Brothers to Fleetwood Mac, and there is just something special about the resonant harmonies sung by this group. As Fudugazi tells us: "There is magic in these songs; close your eyes and listen, and you will feel the magic too!" The lyrics for these songs appear in both Zulu and English and on some of the songs, such as "Kanje Kanje," you have children singing in English at the same time Ladysmith Black Mambazo is singing in Zulu. Finally, yes, the title is blatantly taken from Lewis Carroll; it came to mind while listening to this album.

Perfect for Children
My son (3 years old) absolutely loves this CD. The music is beautiful and the stories have enough excitement to keep him listening all the way through, over and over again. I highly recommend this CD as a way of introducing different music to young children, after all, kid's music shouldn't begin and end with The Wiggles!

Not What I Expected
I have the "Journey of Dreams" CD by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. It is delightful, swirling, singing music by a group of men from Africa. I liked it so much that I bought another CD "by" the same group called the "Gift of the Tortise. A Musical Journey Through Southern Africa". Most of it consists of a lady talking- not singing- about the animals, places, and people of Africa. In a couple of places ordinary children are heard singing in the screechy, ordinary way children sing. Every ten minutes or so, a muted male voice sings briefly in the background. There seems to be a big difference between what the producers of this CD consider artistic freedom and what I consider a bait and switch rip off. I threw the CD in the trash.

South African journey
Ladysmith Black Mambazo has this overexageraded voice, when she speaks. It is really taking you of on that african journey.
The wise tortoise explains all the zulu songs and stories. With lots of clicks and animal sounds you can try to copy. One of the classic songs is The Lion Sleeps Tonight. But it is preformed in an more authentic way. That "aaawwwiiii!" is a word, I'm guessing and not some mad women screaming.
Like almost with all African songs, rythm, drumming and clapping hands are basic ingredients. There is also a children choir who preforms. Songs are in Zulu and English language.
As Fudugazi (the tortoise) wisely stated; "There is magic in these songs; close your eyes and listen, and you will feel the magic too!" ... Read more

Album Description

An actual human heartbeat is the rhythm (drums) of special arrangements of traditional lullabies and nursery songs. The songs on this CD actually stop babies from crying, soothe symptoms of colic, and help parents get their children to sleep through the night - without having to let them cry! Each CD includes a Parents Guide - An Introduction to Heartbeat Musical Therapy booklet with common-sense suggestions for bedtime routines that work. Satisfaction is guaranteed or the manufacturer will refund the full purchase price direct to the consumer. These recordings are used medically in over 8,000 hospitals and special care centers to calm listeners, induce sleep and assist in healing. They are also used in over 1 million homes to help establish regular healthy sleep schedules for children and to help families get the rest they need. They are effective for listeners of all ages - from prenatal to elderly - but are recommended for prenatal to 6 years. They can be started at any age. They can even be used during the last trimester of pregnancy to help both mom and baby get a good nights sleep. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

THIS IS THE BEST LULLABY CD AROUND, NO KIDDING!
My sister passed the entire set of tapes to me when my son was born. It was her saving grace with her colic baby. It shortly became mine. My son is now 19 months old and as soon as he hears the heart beats he climbs into bed without much resistance at all. The tapes are now worned out from excessive use and I have recently purchased two cd's, one for home and one for daycare. The CD is a hit at daycare! His friends seem to love the music as well.

Have used it for years
My children are now 14, 11, and 8. We had used this
tape ever since the beginning of our family 14 years
ago. All three children loved it as it was a regular
part of our bedtime routine. It's also a great shower
gift. We highly recommend it!

Best CD Around!
We were given the cd as a gift, thru the Air Force's "First-time parent program" and didn't use it at first. However, when we did start to use it, we felt really stupid for waiting so long. We put my daughter to sleep every night with this cd, and use it as needed during the day. When the cd starts, you can see and feel her start to relax immediatly. Of all of the things that you need to have as a parent, this ranks as one of the top items!

Still using it 5 years later!!!
I bought this CD when my daughter was a newborn. In the beginning I'd rock & sing to her and just before she fell asleep, I'd put her in her crib. Eventually I was able to lay her in her crib and just sing to her and she would be asleep before the end of the 2nd track.

Now, as a new kindergartener, she has been having trouble falling asleep so early. I brought out the old CD and played it for her. She even remembered the music. She visibly relaxed the first time I turned it on and was sound asleep within 15 minutes. It has once again become part of her bedtime routine.

First thing to buy for a new baby!
We received the tape of this and wore it out completely with my son. We started using it when he was a few weeks old and it always put him to sleep. The warning on the tape is true...it will put parents to sleep as well (especially parents of newborns!). I really recommend buying the cd. The second the tape would end, we couldn't get in the room fast enough to flip it over. I'm expecting my 2nd child and buying this cd is #1 on my to-do list! ... Read more

Amazon.com

All aboard! For kids with a yen to travel farther than over the hill and through the woods to grandmother's house, Papa's Dream is a welcome invitation. Narrator Papa Lalo, Chicano rockers Los Lobos, and a passel of grandkids pile into a Mexico-bound flying balloon in celebration of the grandfather's birthday. Tots, tykes, and preteens will delight in the adventures of this flying family, and even moms and dads will appreciate the muscular feel-good rock of Los Lobos as they bop through contemporary stalwarts "La Bamba" and "Wooly Bully," as well as a handful of traditional Mexican folk tunes. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Lalo Guerrero takes Los Lobos and Los Cenzontles on a trip!
Lalo Guerrero, the grandfather of contemporary Chicano music is "Papa Lalo," who wants to go home to Mexico for the first time in 60 years for a grand celebration for his 80th birthday. He brings along his children and grandchildren, the former turning out to be Los Lobos. "Papa's Dream" alternates between Papa Lalo's narration of this grand adventures and the songs, which are sung mostly by Los Lobos but also by Los Cenzontles (the Mockingbirds), a youth group from San Pablo, California, and Guerrero himself. The CD starts off with a nicely stylized version of "La Bamba" and "Wooly Bully," in honor of Papa Lalo's Chicano blimp, shaped like a bull and held together with "wooly thread." I was wondering why these two songs started the album, but then it occurred to me that for most Americans they represent the most famous songs in Spanish in the history of rock 'n' roll; the fact that it is mainly the opening countdown of the latter that is not in English. There is a wide variety of Mexican folk songs, the lyrics to which are provided in the booklet in Spanish or English as the case may be. There is such a sense of joy to this entire experience and by the time it is over you will want Papa Lalo to take you along the next time he goes sailing away. "Papa's Dream" will introduce you to marvelous songs and I bet I will not be the only one who has never heard the authentic version of "Cielito Lindo," just the tacky commercial. There is also a traditional version of "La Bamba." This is simply one of those feel good albums you stumble across from time to time. The Music for Little People series is an absolutely top-notch series of CDs. I have been very impressed with not only the talented musicians they have have collected for these albums, but the creativity of these efforts as well, which seems to always combine great music with elements of the culture that will delight children and parental units alike.

"Papa's Dream" - Los Lobos; Mama's Review
"Papa's Dream is a lively tale about a family that goes on a special trip. It is quite suitable for the classroom of the Beginning Level Learners of Spanish. Notice the accompanying audio CD or cassette, filled with entertaining music, as well as narration. This cassette or CD will be particularly useful for the teacher who may not be themselves fluent in Spanish.

This book and accompanying cassette or CD will enhance your students learning as they are entertained and educated in the Spanish language.

Great job - especially on the music!!

Outstanding
Los Lobos teams up with Lalo Guerrero to take children on an extraordinary adventure and musical tour. I don't know who has enjoyed this CD more -- my children or their parents! We've been trying to learn Spanish as a family, and this has been a wonderful, fun supplement to our language lessons. Some of the songs are in English, but many are in Spanish, and all the lyrics are helpfully printed in the liner notes.

too much narrative
I found the story was too intrusive and sometimes contrived. The idea of Papa Lalo sewing his own hot air balloon was outrageous and that he did it using the hide of a wooly bully is just dumb. The story was too long and took up too much time between songs. I also didn't like that sometimes the story's narrative was overlaid onto the muscial tracks, not just in the beginning and end, but was right in the middle of the songs. I felt there was no escaping from the story. Other things bugged me such as sometimes calling it a blimp while the illustration and other description really is a hot air balloon; the two things are worlds apart. My dislike for the narrative is so bothersome to me that I can't even listen to the CD.

The music alone is great. I just wish the story was toned down (like the perfect balance in Choo Choo Boogaloo).

great mornings!!!
With two small children in the house, happy mornings are the key! They love dancing to Papa Lalo after breakfast. It is such a wonderful story, besides great music. My oldest wants to have a pinata for her next birthday, and is working at learning the Pinata song... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good Wholesome Music
My children, ages 2 and 4, absolutely love this CD! It's great for road trips in the car or when the children need a little exercise. Most of the songs were released before my time, but I've learned all the words. It makes a great gift for baby-boomers too.

5 1/2 YEAR OLD WAS NOT AS THRILLED AS I
IT HAS SOME GREAT DANCING TUNES-NO DOUBT. IT MAKES YOU WANT TO GET UP AND SHAKE YOUR BOTTY. I LOVE IT. MY SON, WHOM IT WAS ORIGINALLY PURCHASED FOR, IS A BIT LESS ENTHEUSTAIC.

Dance Music by various artists
I purchased this CD for my second grade classroom and my students and I love it! Each time I play this music my students can't help but to dance while they are working and sing along with the music. It is definitely one of my favorite CDs to play. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Children Just Love Many Songs. Very Silly and Good for Kids
I give this 4 1/2 stars, so I will round up. It's better than most children's music CD's.

My children love many of the songs on this CD, like "Old Dan Tucker" and Shortnin' Bread." We own many children's CD's and this one ranks among one of their favorite ones. I don't know why. They do skip some songs, so I wouldn't rank it as the best childrens music CD.

The song selection is a little different, which supplements other children's CD's. Overall, it seems to appeal to young children, and the content is decent - imaginative and generally good for kids.

In summary, it's one of the better childrens music CD's available. A child will probably consider it one of his or her favorites.

Imaginative and unique
This album is different from the other children's albums our family owns, and it inspires the imagination. The songs are grouped in themes and have an authentic sound, with high production value.

The first two tunes are nautical, and "Sailing, Sailing" sounds like a "sea shanty" that pirates are singing. We all enjoy the hoedown feel of the next set, with a rousing rendition of "She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain", and "Old Dan Tucker" and "Clementine" are tied together nicely, with a few sobs for darling Clementine.

Our least favorite songs come next, with an off-putting version of "Old King Cole" in which the king does a lot of talking. He talks in "Sing a Song of Sixpence" as well, and when I listen to his haughty voice, I want to lead a revolution to overthrow his monarchy.

The album gets better once you get past the British royalty songs. The steel drums of "Matilda" (not to be confused with "Waltzing Matilda") add a Carribean flair, and "If You're Happy and You Know It" is a lot of fun. The album winds up with a New Orleans/Mardi Gras theme, complete with horns and saxophones, again with more talking in between the songs, but it's pleasing this time. Probably our favorite song on the album is "Shortnin' Bread", which is sung exactly as it should be, Southern-style.

This album comes with all the bells and whistles, in the form of wonderful sound effects. While the selection of songs may not appeal to everyone, we are glad to have something a little different. I haven't been able to determine what our two-year-old thinks of it, but I'm certain most young children would like the upbeat songs. I'm not sure, however, if children would like the grizzled-sounding pirate on "Sailing, Sailing" and that simpering Old King Cole, the ninny. We greatly prefer "Toddler Favorites", which was produced by the same company and has universal appeal.

Not our favorite
I bought this tape for my daughter, who is 23 months old. I purchased Toddler Favorites and one of the Disney classics at the same time. She prefers the Toddler Favorites to all the others. This tape (Children's Favorites) has an odd musical selection. Some of the songs are unfamiliar and rather outdated. I think we were looking for something a bit more cutesy and upbeat. Still, we do listen to it and a couple of the songs are cute.

Children's songs.
This is an excellent compilation. Each song has its own individually tailored production, with different sound effects, and yet the entire compilation has a uniform style. Each song sounds as though it were taken from the soundtrack from a movie, because of the high quality of the production, and also because of the sound effects (boat toots, animal squawks, ocean waves, and various American dialects/accents). Especially engaging was the use of children's voices (spoken and singing) along with adult voices. I liked especially Shortnin' Bread (it would have been fine if the singer on Shortnin' Bread had been featured on every number). Another fine effect, found on Hokey Pokey, was the sound of cheering and shouting children's voices. One critical word: the song titled "Walzing Matilda" is not Walzing Matilda. It is actually the song that goes ". . . she take me money and run Venezuela." The voices might be, perhaps, considered a tad less polished than those found on the exquisite series of Disney Children's Favorites, produced by Jymn Magon with Betty Joyce as the choral director.

Songs for children to grow up with
This is an excellent collection of songs. It was great to find all MY old favorites in one CD. My 11 month old son actually dances and does hand motions to the music. He cant wait to hear the song "If your happy and you know it", one of his favorites. It is a great CD for him to grow up with. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Children of all ages will delight in the simple melodies featured in A Child's Collection of Folk Music. These story-songs are repetitive and eminently singable. Material ranges from traditional twangy banjo numbers like "She'll Be Comin' Round the Mountain" from Folk granddaddy Pete Seeger to the soulful song-in-the-round "Run Molly Run" by contemporary gospel group Sweet Honey in the Rock. Moms and dads will have the opportunity to share some of their favorite folk artists with the next generation: Michelle Shocked, who does a lovely traditional Irish-minstral-type ballad; Taj Mahal, who performs a bluesy "Little Brown Dog"; and Woody Guthrie on "Riding in My Car (Car Song)." And for all the Deadhead mommies, there's Jerry Garcia and David Grisman performing "There Ain't No Bugs on Me." Kids will particularly enjoy the Cajun boogie of Buckwheat Zydeco and the trip-over-the-tongue island music of Cedella Marley Booker. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (9)

you'll love it too
My 3 y.o. loved it. The music is upbeat and fun, and you'll crack your kid up when you sing your own version of Ridin' in My Car. And Their Ain't No Bugs on Me is a great song. I don't know about your kid, but mine can handle a lyric like "How in the hell can the old folks tell ..." especially when sung so cheerfully and, um, innocuously. Mostly, it's a cd that you yourself will enjoy listening to ... even (believe it or not) the supplied version of Skip to My Lou.

A Child's Celebration of Folk Music/Various Artists
Loved it except for the "Ain't no bugs on me" song. It uses the phrase "how in the (hell) can the old folks tell" In my opinion, that is not appropriate for young children.

Concerned mother actually listened to lyrics
Most of the songs are enjoyable and of the caliber I expected after reading the reviews posted. However, on Garcia's version of "Ain't No Flies On Me", there is a mild obscenity, which is fine for an adult compilation, but unacceptable for a compilation directed to children. As the rules for this forum prohibit obscenities, I cannot be more explicit about the exact lyrics. I am extremely disappointed in the editors and will be returning my CD.

Just wish they had the lyrics printed in the jacket
Love this cd -- it's lots of fun to listen to, the music is enjoyable for both children and adults. It touches on a variety of cultures and styles, and the rhythms and lyrics are fun. My only complaint is that the words can be hard to understand, and the lyrics aren't in the cd book/jacket thing. I'd like to sing along with it, and teach my son, but I can't understand the words sometime!

Very well done compilation
All of the songs on the CD are excellent. I especially like Doc Watson's rendition of the 1864-song "Grandfather's Clock". Buckwheat Zydeco's "Crawfish Song" is also refreshingly good. The kids enjoy the CD immensely and adore Pete Seeger's "She'll be coming around the mountain," but you should be prepared to listen to the first few songs over and over and over as your kids' attention spans wane. We usually just leave the CD playing in the background.

This is a wonderful collection. ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of Cajun music's chief qualities is its cheerfulness; it's impossible to listen to it and stay depressed. This same quality makes it perfect music for kids, and Papillion succeeds admirably, from the rollicking gaiety of "Down on the Bayou" to the zydeco rhythm of "Zydeco Dancing" to the bluesy shuffle of "Sugar Bee." Most of the songs, as one might expect, will move the tiniest feet, from "Oh Papillion!" to "Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!" (which means, unsurprisingly, "Let the good times roll") to "Let's Go!" There are slower songs as well; "Fais Do Do" ("Go to Sleep") is a lullaby, and the highly recognizable "You Are My Sunshine" closes the CD. Between musical tracks, Papillion takes his young listeners on a journey through the Louisiana bayou, with an odd French lesson or two along the way. Recommended! --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Cajun for Kids...and Grownups!
This CD is infectious. The songs are great and the narration in between does well to teach both child and grownup alike about the cajun culture and music. The lyrics and music are so catchy even adults end up singing along. My 5 year old daughter's (and my personal) favorites are "Cocodrie" and "Crawfish!" It is a great CD to keep in the car! We have had it for probably four years and still love to listen to it.

Aieee! This CD has it all!
I have never taken the time to write a review. But, as I say, this CD has it all... pleasant music for people of ALL AGES, and the most delightful monologues which include discussion of Cajun culture, and language instruction (French Acadian dialect). Papillion is a charmer, and Cajun for Kids is a pleasure to listen to. Many of adult friends who don't have children buy copies for themselves because it is a treasure. Papillion puts everyone in a good mood. I wish there were many more CDs like it. Laissez les bontemps rouler!

My Kids and I love It!
My kids (ages 4 1/2 and 6 1/2)and I just love this CD. We listen to it on drives all the time. We all sing along. The narrations between songs are very interesting. They've helped my children learn something about the Cajun heritage. I highly recommend this if you want something different and fun. But then again, my kids also enjoy the Beatles and Santana so they enjoy a wide variety of quality musical styles.

Cajun artist Papillion leads us in a Fais Do Do!
Papillion's "Cajun for Kids" is the Music for Little People album I have enjoyed the least and it is still a really good album for kids. I must not like Cajun music as much as I would have thought. Like most of the excellent albums in this series we alternate between songs and narration, as Papillion introduces each song and tells us some stories from Cajun culture. Adults will probably recognize only a couple of the songs, "Jambalaya" and "You Are My Sunshine," but the fun about these albums is hearing new songs from different cultures. The Music for Little People series is absolutely great. Apply any and all adjectives that come to mind. In fact, if you do not have children, plan on having some just so you can pick up all of these albums.

Delightful! More Papillion Available on his Web Site!
My daughter and I love Papillion's Music!
Cajun for Kids is absolutely Delightful.
We have listened to this album for 3 years now and it is still her favorite.
I find that she has (in a way) grown with the CD... first when she was 2 she responded to the beat and joyful nature of the music... she began "Shouting" along with Papillion! As she has grown I find her listening more carefully to the songs and stories and asking me questions or telling me about her favorite parts. I love that this is quality music that I enjoy as an adult and that Papillion provides many levels for Children to relate to and grow into and discover new treasures in the songs and stories. We were tickled to discover Papillion's colorful and interesting ... and to Purchase ... Papillion's New CD "Hugs and Smiles!" This CD is just as much of a treat as Cajun for Kids!
Check it out at www.papillion.com! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This compilation of singing and dancing ditties will brighten even the grayest day! A rousing version of "Iko Iko" by Sebastian the Crab followed by the Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Yertle the Turtle" set the pace for this happy, upbeat album. After taking a few moments to catch your breath with classics "Inchworm" (by Victoria Jackson) and Kenny Loggins's "All the Pretty Ponies," you'll be ready to two-step with Buckwheat Zydeco's "Choo Choo Boogaloo." Whether it's ring-ring-ringing with Raffi's Bananaphone or twirling with Thumbelina, the wide selection of musical styles offers enough variety to be a sure hit with all the members of your family. --Deborah Moore ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not droll or difficult for adult ears.
What a great CD! I have the first one and like this one just as much if not more (haven't heard it 100+ times yet) The CD I have is in such poor shape I decided to shop for a new one. Highly recommend.

Fantastic fun!
My 3-year-old son absolutely loves this CD. I got it on a whim, because it's hard to find good kids' music. Luckily, this one's a winner. In fact, all the "Child's Celebration" CDs are worth a listen. We dance to this one almost every night.

Not as good as the orginal...
The songs on this CD were okay, but we prefered the first CD, Celebration of Song. Two of the songs on this CD were good, especially Inchworm. However, one tune was rap...and we didn't like it at all.

fast-paced musical fun
This is a great album (we have the cassette version). Appealing to both kids and parents, it's a fun mix of silly, upbeat songs (Choo Choo Boogaloo and Bananaphone) and slower, more sentimental tunes (Inchworm, All the Pretty Little Ponies) that stay with you long after you're finished listening. My 7-month-old loves it, and he's patient enough to let me listen to it over and over again! It's kids stuff with a sophisticated twist. I'd also recommend the Music For Little People Lullaby Album, it's super-sweet and the mix of songs is really unique. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Despite American schools' penchant for introducing foreign language at the middle-school level, research continues to prove that the earlier a child is exposed to a second language, the more likely she/he is to become bilingual. Based upon this tenet, in addition to Music for Little People's strong commitment to multicultural edu-tainment for children, the label has issued Uni Verse of Song as the first in a series of bilingual recordings especially created for children from preschool through fourth-grade levels. Featuring acclaimed artist Maria del Rey, she is here joined by a group of children singing standard American tunes in both English and Spanish. Oftentimes, verses as in "She'll Be Comin' Round the Mountain," are sung in English and directly followed by a translation in Spanish, thus making the language come to life with both fun and content. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Uni Verse of Song: Spanish
My two year old daughter and I really enjoy this CD. The songs have a fun beat and are sung in Spanish and English. Also, Spanish words are reviewed in English and Spanish throughout the CD. We listen to it in the car and she moves her head back and forth to the rhythm and sings while in her car seat. The words are very easy to understand. I would definitely recommend this CD for all ages wanting to learn Spanish.

It hurt my ears
I have just listened to the samples available online, and being a native spanish speaker, the gramatical errors I have heard hurt my ears. I am also bringing up my baby bilingual english/spanish, and as someone mentioned in a previous review, mixing the two lenguages goes against the expert's advice, as it creates confusion for the baby.

As a bilingual educator Universe of Song is great tool !
Having worked with children day in and day out for over 15 years in the classroom. I have a treasure of special music CDs I love to use. All of Maria Del Rey's CDs belong in my favorites catagory. They are expertly done imbued with such joy and musicianship. I have found great success when children hear a phrase in their native language then in the language they desire to learn, they gain a sense of confidence with the power of music learning phrase by phrase. Kid tune out when
it's all in one language. Del Rey is brilliant to unite all the tools I need for teaching and cultural awareness with out the usual snobbery I see in other educational materials. Maria
Del Rey's cheerful and beautiful voice works wonders for the class morale as well.

Too Cool Of An Idea!
I am a grand mother of bilingal twin granddaughters, I found this Tape to be a delightful idea, As, we would like to sing together songs we know all the words too. they do very well with both languages. I love this is is fantastical! What a joyful sound to hear multi laguages singing with joy in their voices. i know My Andrea and Elizabeth will think it is awesome themselves.

Very enjoyable
My 15 month old son enjoys when we sing them together! It has helped my husband learn some Spanish too! I do agree that it is a bit confusing to have each song part English then part Spanish. I imagine that for a child who is learning languages, it may create confusion. However, since many people speak languages this way, I don't think it merits throwing this great CD away. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When your brood's in a mood, tell 'em (as Duke Ellington surely would've) it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing. Maria Muldaur's Swingin' in the Rain is just the ticket to perk things up and get those kiddos shuffling off to Buffalo rather than to the time-out corner! With a generous helping of horns, along with guitar, bass, and keyboards, Muldaur puts her sweet and lively spin on swing with revamped renditions of yesteryear's pop. "Aba Daba Honeymoon" is a zingy little number sure to get the gang singing along between giggles and "If I Knew You Were Comin' I'd've Baked a Cake" is pleasantly sassy. "Animal Fair" is a welcome inclusion sandwiched by the nonsensical "Mairzy Doats" and "A Bushel and a Peck," a tune for tuning up the old shuffle-ball-change and waltz-clock combinations. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (11)

5+ stars for maria and the three little fishies
In my continuing quest to find music that my children and I can listen to (often over and over and over again), and something (ANYTHING) to substitute for the Thomas theme song after we have played it constantly for over an hour, I purchased this CD. This CD was a hit even for my opiniated three year old twosome. Now at least we can alternate Thomas with the "Three Little Fishies". They have even developed hand signals for the "little fishies" swimming "over the dam" and the BIG SHARK. The other songs on the CD are great too and I hope that we will be able to hear more of them too some day. Thank you Maria for another wonderful CD.

Sensational
I was given this cd by Ms. Muldaur when she visited Milwaukee. Hearing her sing these great 40's tunes that were made popular by many of the popular singing stars back then is wonderful to listen to especially now that she has cleverly incorporated jazz and swing to the melodies. Her voice is sultry and pleasing to the point that you keep wanting to hear more and more. I haven't regretted buying this particular cd. It's sensational. I hope she does another 13 children's songs with a jazzy and swinging background.

and all that jazz
Maria Mulduar selects great musicians and eclectic, memorable songs as she not only delights kids but we grown ups too, and teaches us Americana through her taste in old time music. If you are old-you'll be reminded of singer Red McKenzie and his Mound City Blowers [Benny Goodmans little group recording under s a different name, or if young you can relate to the Sqirrel Nut Zippers. So...put on your Raccoon coat and get ready to Charleston. 23 Skidoo and cat's meow, vo vo dee oh doe and oh you kid!

You'll want to dance along with your child!
What a find! After several attempts to find music for my son that I can tolerate, this is a refreshing discovery. Clever lyrics, catchy tunes and decidedly jazzy/swingy arrangements. This is music that adults can listen to while introducing their child to an actual music genre, rather than yet another rendition of children's classic. Your child will notice the different instruments being played and you'll both want to dance to it!

What a great CD!
We just received this CD today, and it is awesome! Maria Muldar has the best voice, and it's so cool that she did a CD for KIDS! My 9 month old son loves it! It's up-beat, and you can really boogie to it! =) ... Read more