tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270466722012-01-20T15:41:41.262-05:00Kid's Music Reviews, Children's music news, family concert reviews and kiddie rock videos. Children's Literature and Kid's Book reviews.Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.comBlogger8651100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-89708858022706515182010-02-22T14:52:00.002-05:002010-02-22T14:52:35.571-05:00

Hey there.  You still coming to this dusty blogspot address?  Still waiting for a new article to come through via RSS?  You're missing a ton!   Visit, bookmark and resubscribe to the OWTK RSS feed now at the new, improved (and totally impressive, if I do say so myself) OWTK.com

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-63541801369666663552010-01-04T04:09:00.001-05:002010-01-04T04:09:00.649-05:00

Out With The Kids has moved!  It's officially official, so what are you waiting for?   Head on over to the new and improved OWTK.com now!  Bookmark it, subscribe in Google Reader, become a fan on Facebook, follow on Twitter...blah blah blah.   Goodbye Blogger...hello OWTK.com!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-9703417945720414652009-12-31T19:17:00.000-05:002009-12-31T19:17:07.884-05:00

On 1/4/2010, look out for a brand new OWTK! Happy, safe and amazing new year to each and every one of you.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-33392349678442797902009-12-30T08:15:00.000-05:002009-12-30T08:15:17.791-05:00

In what is turning into a New Year's tradition, OWTK will be attending the Jan. 2nd Gustafer Yellowgold show at World Cafe Live. I may have even used this blog post title before. It's Deja Vu, all over again. It seems the yellow guy visits Philly on the 1st weekend of each New Year and, you know what, I cannot really imagine a better way to kick off another year of great family music. We

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-43312268534111270042009-12-23T21:27:00.000-05:002009-12-23T21:27:21.857-05:00

The Muppets joined Jimmy Fallon and The Roots to sing "12 Days of Christmas". Fallon looks genuinely unnerved at first, but warms up a bit. Pretty sweet stuff. Check it:

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-65086619587339471112009-12-22T21:18:00.000-05:002009-12-22T21:18:05.815-05:00

Here's the newest cartoon video from Debbie and Friends. The terrific song, "Willy Won't Smile for the Camera", is from the band's forthcoming sophomore release, due in March '10. The track is lively and layered, with a stellar piano solo. Love the press conference backdrop 90 seconds in, brilliant. Check it:

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-30622366445607337022009-12-18T10:49:00.002-05:002009-12-20T08:50:48.458-05:00

Last weekend, while the Mrs. slumped into her cubicle for an unpleasant Saturday morning of shuffling papers, the Bear, Mouse and I traveled to Philly for the Debbie & Friends show at World Cafe Live.  We'd been enjoying their ab-fab animated music videos over the past several months, but this occasion marked our 1st time seeing the Boston band live.  The quick 45-minute set was energetic and

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-8709022163851306362009-12-17T22:11:00.000-05:002009-12-17T22:11:44.698-05:00

A band of ragtag, flag waving pirates standing in an inflatable, mustard yellow raft outside in the snow.  Blackjack pickle, nose flutes, a kid in a cake...this video, the 1st from Dean Jones & Felice Brothers' outstanding CD "Rock Paper Scissors", has pretty much got it all.  It's uniquely homespun, and nearly as goofy as the song itself.  Additionally, these might be the least fierce collection

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-35669857034765869542009-12-17T15:46:00.000-05:002009-12-17T15:46:53.792-05:00

Wow, what a playlist: Hipwaders, Brady Rymer, Gustafer Yellowgold and more...all holiday songs, all free from the fine folks at Jitterbug.tv.  Go, be merry and download now.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-49279991821683038442009-12-17T10:58:00.006-05:002009-12-17T12:18:01.258-05:00

At it's core, The Arden's Peter Pan is an elaborate game of playing house.   Just below the surface though, and something especially noticeable in their miraculous production of Douglas Irving's adaption, are larger truths about what it means to be young, joyful and free - three things best experienced before the suffocating adult burdens of beards and offices set in. As parents, we pass on a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-38066408043980599982009-12-16T12:56:00.000-05:002009-12-16T12:56:52.434-05:00

Kid's band Tangerine Tambourine are giving away their Motown-inspired version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.  Simply right click and 'save link as' to download this wonderful take on the Christmas classic. 

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-30617440244468038682009-12-15T20:42:00.001-05:002009-12-15T20:42:56.066-05:00

CLEMENTOWN "POLKA BATS AND OCTOPUS SLACKS - THE MUSIC"   The Sound: Everything, plus the kitchen sink, washing machine and Cuisinart.  There are no fewer than 5 genres of music explored over the course of the 28 tracks included here. A sprawling, glorious and beautiful mess of an album. In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Recess Monkey, Gustafer Yellowgold, They Might Be Giants Best Moments: "

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-38565487050729091092009-12-14T13:00:00.002-05:002009-12-14T13:07:58.460-05:00

Todd McHatton (Glass Stained Twilight) is giving away for free his new, 5-song kiddie Christmas EP, aptly titled "Christmas Songs".  McHatton's dreamy, meandering folk-pop originals recall a chilled-out, less fuzzy Sebadoh. "Christmas Songs" is a nice 15 minute addition to your Holiday playlist, especially if you're a fan of indie pop (ala The Shins). Get your "copy" of this digital release now

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-19953506788549333492009-12-10T15:40:00.000-05:002009-12-10T15:40:47.582-05:00

My t-shirt and gift shop is participating in today's Shop For Annissa event.  I'm donating 25% of all profits from today's sales.  So you can shop here and here for thousands of novelty t-shirts, mugs, ornaments and what-not, (including lots of New Moon/Twilight themed tees, stickers and souvenirs) and know that you are helping out.  Or, better still, give 100% of your money straight to the Hope

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-87168026003220987942009-12-10T04:44:00.000-05:002009-12-10T04:44:02.237-05:00

Today's Amazon.com MP3 deal o' the day is Elizabeth Mitchell's stunning 2002 release "You Are My Sunshine".   If you don't already own it, head over here to pick it up digitally for just $2.99.  Hurry, this deal is only for today, Thursday December 10th!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-83085168460172440872009-12-09T13:52:00.002-05:002009-12-09T13:52:00.136-05:00

It's been forever since we've seen a kid's concert.  Halloween, I think.   Okay, maybe that's not "forever", but for us a 6-week absence sure as heck feels like an eternity. That all changes this weekend as Debbie & Friends roll through town.  We're seeing the Saturday 11:30am show at World Cafe Live.  It'll be our 1st time seeing the group perform. Immediately following Debbie & Friends in

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-37212783788857087402009-12-09T13:25:00.001-05:002009-12-09T13:25:23.376-05:00

Looking for a last minute gift of music for a child?  So many kid's bands/acts/labels are having specials right now, I figured I'd try to collect 'em all (or most of 'em) in one place.  Here goes: The Baby Grands self-titled CD - THE DEAL: 2 CDs for $19.99 plus pick any other CD from the label's catalog and get it for free at checkout (no extra shipping charges either).  From Backspace Records,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-56857067703871197852009-12-09T06:42:00.001-05:002009-12-09T08:38:04.054-05:00

I had no idea the original Tortoise and Hare fable was so short.  I also had no idea the tale was centuries old.  I mean, I knew it was older than me, but 2000 years!   Those are just two of the tidbits I picked up while enjoying Maestro Classics' new Stories in Music CD "The Tortoise and The Hare".  With music from the little outfit known as the London Philharmonic Orchestra, this CD is a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-23347102215064233452009-12-08T14:10:00.000-05:002009-12-08T14:10:24.122-05:00

Dan Zanes has just made pieces from his most recent DVD, "The Fine Friends Are Here", available as MP4 downloads.  For $1.99 each you can score the videos for "Night Owl", "Wonder Wheel" and the fantastic "Pollito Chicken".  For the fabulous price of $0.00 you can also download the video for "Water for Elephants".  Go get that free one, and the others, right here. The other thing Dan Zanes has

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-11444915392990074632009-12-08T12:00:00.003-05:002009-12-08T12:04:51.667-05:00

Kids grow up, get married, and start families of their own.  It's at this point, or maybe it actually happens earlier - during the growing up bit - that kids start to become detached from their parents.  Phone conversations become more and more infrequent, y'all see each other even less.  It's kinda understandable, but no less tragic. Two people who invest so much in you as youngsters - time,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-17102545133258192332009-12-08T10:15:00.002-05:002009-12-08T10:40:18.225-05:00

Neil Brewer "Neil Brewer and Friends Are Back in School" The Sound: An acoustic time capsule.  Thoughtful reflections of a funnier, simpler time. In the Cafeteria, He Sits With: Bill Harley, Ellis Paul, Paul Simon, James Taylor Best Moments: The elementary school admiration through a cloud of eraser dust on "Not Like You" is absolutely divine, as is the chorus: "those girls were fine and

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-75653283745330405152009-12-07T09:18:00.001-05:002009-12-07T09:18:25.922-05:00

The Hipwaders are back with a new video, for the song "It's Wintertime" from the band's "A Kindie Christmas" album.  I dig the vintage cartoon action, interspersed with Hipwader bobbleheads.  Cool stuff, check it:

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-21283930898549290232009-12-05T06:55:00.002-05:002009-12-05T21:41:59.578-05:00

As reported by Gooney Bird Kids earlier this week, children's music superstars Ralph's World have a brand new album, "All Around Ralph's World", set for a February 9, 2010 release.   The real news though (also scooped by Gooney Bird Kids), is the label behind the release. Since at least 2006, Ralph's World has been teamed up with the devil Walt Disney Company label.  It appears as though that

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-91675867692499184222009-12-04T15:30:00.002-05:002009-12-04T15:33:50.851-05:00

Putumayo Presents "A Family Christmas" The Sound: An eclectic (although less so than other Putumayo World music compilations), mostly mellow mix of Christmas standards along with some lesser known holiday tunes you definitely won't be hearing while walking around the mall. Best Moments: Johnny Bregar's spin on "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" is enjoyable, as most everything Bregar does is. 

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-52899827678032220472009-12-04T09:35:00.000-05:002009-12-04T09:37:01.905-05:00

We were just in A.C. for a college basketball tournament, to cheer on my MSU Spartans.  While in the East Coast gambling mecca, we hit a couple of the well-promoted family holiday events.  Here's my quick take on what we saw: The Tropicana indoor snowfall (every 15 minutes) was underwhelming, but the kids liked it.  The Trop's holiday light show (supposedly the largest light show in the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-13367952018817939092009-12-04T06:28:00.001-05:002009-12-04T06:28:00.382-05:00

So, yesterday there is a knock on the door.  The Mrs. is still at work.  Both girls have recently shot down the hall towards the bedrooms.  At the door was a neighborhood boy, who also happens to be a classmate of the Bear's, and his mom.  The Bear is being invited to the boy's 6th birthday party, an event she'll miss because of a prior engagement (Peter Pan at the Arden with my parents).  Before

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-51141432781863626202009-12-03T15:06:00.000-05:002009-12-03T15:08:22.928-05:00

A Florida teen kills herself because of the shame and embarrassment over a sext (sexy txt message for those keeping score at home).  Seems she sent over a nude photo of herself to a boy she liked.  Not that sending one to a boyfriend is smart, but a self-nude to a dude you merely LIKE - not a good decision.   What does the behavior say about us as parents and adults, the ones charged with

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-79620723030701565632009-12-03T13:59:00.003-05:002009-12-03T15:12:51.753-05:00

In case you were wondering what the article looks like in print, here is the image which includes a hilarious photo of John Upchurch and Mark Greenberg (John and Mark's Children's Record). The online version of the top 10 list on the Time Out New York Kids website has been updated to now include a music player.  Go there and listen to a song from each band on the list. Oh, and in case anyone

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-17956441528770411472009-12-03T09:16:00.003-05:002009-12-03T09:47:50.151-05:00

OWTK has been covering the WorryWoos from the start (hi Nola!).   You remember, those adorable, beautifully illustrated books and snuggly plush monsters of emotion?   Today the world, or at least those who watch morning TV, discovered 'em too.   The WorryWoo Monsters were featured on NBC's The Today Show (holy cow!) this morning.  The nation saw Squeek and Rue, heard about The Monster in the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-4591484288632370552009-12-03T07:14:00.000-05:002009-12-03T07:14:00.049-05:00

Little Cook - A silly little game for Daddy (or Mommy's) little sous chef.  My kids love to help me prepare and cook food and now they can get their fill even when the family kitchen is closed.  With the Little Cook app, kids can make a salad, eggs, pizza, soup, sandwiches or an ice cream sundae using a variety of ingredients.  Make a delicious dessert and receive kudos from the a little girl

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-92063895293842906602009-12-02T22:32:00.001-05:002009-12-02T23:31:47.965-05:00

The Grammy Award nods have been announced. Here are the finalists in the Best Musical Album For Children category: American Heroes #3 - Jonathan Sprout Banjo To Beatbox - Cathy & Marcy With Special Guest Christylez Bacon Family Time - Ziggy Marley Great Day - Milkshake Jumpin' & Jammin'- Greg & Steve Pete Seeger Tribute — Ageless Kids' Songs - Buck Howdy Ziggy has got to be the favorite,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-43221971680092916012009-12-02T06:55:00.001-05:002009-12-02T10:38:21.745-05:00

Who doesn't love video of a youngster bustin' a move?  Watching a child dance is irrestible and now, it can be highly rewarding!   Putumayo Kids is holding a Dance-Off video contest, the rules of which are pretty simple: put on some Putumayo music and let your kiddo(s) go wild.  Capture the hilarity on video, upload it to your preferred public video site (You Tube, etc.) and send Putumayo Kids

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-17270824640968214492009-12-01T20:51:00.001-05:002009-12-02T20:00:29.481-05:00

I had no idea that ratings summaries are not printed on video game boxes. Shows you how many games I've purchased in my life.  Serious gamer I am not.  Turns out you get just a tilted T or an M, along a few words ("drug use", etc) and are left to wonder just what exactly that means as far as game play goes. So, it's rather big news that the ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Boards) has

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-80088250217865246932009-12-01T11:45:00.008-05:002009-12-01T12:11:46.484-05:00

DEAN JONES w/ THE FELICE BROTHERS "ROCK PAPER SCISSORS"  The Sound: A big rock-n-roll party, kinda like "The Last Waltz" for kids, with Dean Jones (of Dog on Fleas), The Felice Brothers, Uncle Rock and a handful of others, including Lily McNamara who takes the lead (and nails it!) on the title track and John Hughes (also from Dog on Fleas) who happens to sing 3 of my favorites.  I could

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-63778273042695708632009-11-29T14:54:00.001-05:002009-11-29T14:55:04.040-05:00

The Mrs. celebrated her 31st birthday last week.  To mark the special occasion, I delivered to her a tasty cinnamon chip muffin topped with a candle en fuego, a cup of hot English Breakfast tea, and a bitchin' iTunes birthday mix using nothing but the finest in kid's rock-n-roll.  Many of these tunes are not yet available on iTunes, otherwise I'd have turned this into an iMix for you to sample

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-18768893063152780302009-11-25T09:31:00.000-05:002009-11-25T09:31:40.291-05:00

OWTK is happy to be able to give away four (4) PUCCA DVDs to 4 luck winners.   These funny movies will certainly make awesome gifts and/or stocking stuffers for the little anime fans in your life.   Want one? Head on over to the OWTK Giveaway page for your chance to win.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-42096517404904672822009-11-25T08:51:00.001-05:002009-11-25T08:53:58.643-05:00

...just in time for the Advent/Christmas season...  Here's your chance to win a sorta collectible advent calendar that is comprised of 24 full color miniature storybooks, each 4 pages long, that also double as Christmas tree ornaments.  Nice stuff. Want it?  Head on over here to the OWTK Giveaway page for your chance.  

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-72880700200646721542009-11-24T06:30:00.000-05:002009-11-24T06:30:01.835-05:00

We haven't heard from Mr. Tobocman in quite a while, and we most likely won't see a new kid's album from him for a while still.  BUT, here he is with a brand new, upbeat and rather terrific Hanukkah song.  It's just a buck to buy digitally, but before you do listen to the whole thing right here.  No matter what you celebrate, I think you'll find "Hanukkah All Over The World" quite enjoyable.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-69132850248537967942009-11-23T15:11:00.000-05:002009-11-23T15:11:21.565-05:00

Hanukkah, like you've never experienced it before.  I present to you Mama Doni's "Chanukah Fever"...be prepared to boogie:

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-415247498404306232009-11-23T09:15:00.016-05:002009-11-23T09:21:40.444-05:00

I could sum up this review in two little words: NO FAIL. If your kids are anything like mine - young and, at times, easily frustrated with failure - you've probably had a hard time playing Rock Band with them.  A half a minute or so of missed notes and wham! - they're gone.  As a family, we hardly play our Wii Rock Band because of the impossible expectations - hell, I can't even master the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-72244859163533334372009-11-21T18:44:00.001-05:002009-11-21T18:44:42.395-05:00

Hullabaloo is giving away a full album's worth of kiddie holiday music for free.  The 10 cuts included on "Holiday Hullabaloo" are new interpretations of some classics performed with just guitar and voice.   "Up on the Rooftop" and "Here Comes Santa Claus" are the tracks that really standout for me. It's a solid overall effort, even with no track reaching the heights hit on "High Roller" or "

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-60401772262600202192009-11-21T10:15:00.004-05:002009-11-22T12:03:34.594-05:00

I just got done listening to Bill, Ella and Liam count down the top 11 kiddie albums of 2009.  Maybe you were listening as well.  If not, and if you're curious about the discs that made the cut this year, head on over to the Fids & Kamily website for the complete list with write-ups on each record. Many of you have already seen my top 10, as it was published in the current issue of Time Out New

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-40947923582250988812009-11-19T18:28:00.007-05:002009-11-20T12:29:48.430-05:00

...as written by me.  This is my first piece for Time Out New York Kids magazine.  The article is online now (officially this time) and will appear in the December issue on newsstands soon (or now, possibly).  *Important to note that the albums are in no particular order.  Check it out here.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-31191728992907585482009-11-17T08:57:00.003-05:002009-11-17T11:52:01.642-05:00

Seeing Bill Harley live is something every parent, child, music lover, story aficionado and, well, english-speaking human being should experience at least once in their life.  He is Bill Cosby and John Denver, all rolled up into one. The Mrs. and I saw him perform an "adult show" inside a house of worship (that sentence never fails to make me chuckle) this past weekend.  After seeing Bill Harley

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-32526958787592877732009-11-16T22:14:00.000-05:002009-11-16T22:14:13.041-05:00

There is so much potential humor in me guest posting on a site called Momslikeme.com, but (and you should too) is all I'm going to take advantage of.  I managed to write 600+ words and not mention a single kid's CD or book...amazing, I know.  Instead, for my 1st guest post on the local Delaware Valley Mommy site, I tackled economics and money-discussions with kids during a recession.  It's a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-58699375815120079912009-11-16T13:28:00.001-05:002009-11-16T13:28:34.093-05:00

It's said that good things come in small packages.  Michael Rachap, through his Readeez, proves that good things also come inside small songs. Readeez are just like the people they're intended for - short, sweet, charming and, sometimes, a little goofy.  Mr. Rachap is one hell of a songwriter, crafting adorable 60-second pop songs wrapped around all the subject matter a kid's gonna need in life,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-40717555976979348592009-11-13T11:25:00.005-05:002009-11-13T11:39:33.826-05:00

Not content with simply dominating the kiddie music world, They Might Be Giants have recently released their 2nd sing-along book (Nov 3rd, from Simon & Schuster).   Titled "Kids Go!", it's a book designed for action - jumping, shaking and, well, go, go, going!  The simple text isn't going to blow you away but it will, combined with energetic illustrations from Pascal Campion, undoubtedly have

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-44553260966799453962009-11-13T09:11:00.000-05:002009-11-13T09:11:34.258-05:00

I reckon there is a healthy debate over which series of books rule the roost for the 5-9 female demographic.  Junie B. Jones is sure to have her legion of supporters, as will The Baby-sitters Club and The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids, but it's a pair of 7 year old ladies that intrigue my girls the most. Ivy & Bean, a relatively young series, has just released it's 6th book - Doomed to

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-87592681149579403342009-11-12T06:49:00.004-05:002009-11-12T06:51:31.284-05:00

THE HIPWADERS "A KINDIE CHRISTMAS" The Sound: A little bit of Pernice Brothers and a dash of mid-80's R.E.M. - a melodic college rock vibe. In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Brady Rymer, Eric Herman, The Baby Grands Best Moments: Stand-out tracks "Wake Up" and "Tinsel & Light" are where the Joe Pernice-reference really comes in to play, with stunning effect.  "Wake Up", with it's parade

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-26719531104932486272009-11-11T07:06:00.002-05:002009-11-11T09:36:38.171-05:00

A snappy little girl and a dog without a proper name take centerstage in this new-ish series of books from author Jean-Philippe Arrou-Vignod and illustrator Olivier Tallec.  Currently there are 3 volumes available from Chronicle Books, although it appears there were some previously published editions dating back to 2007 - all of which can be had from Amazon.com. The 1st book, simply titled Rita

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-11420797741033916482009-11-10T07:55:00.014-05:002009-11-10T12:59:13.600-05:00

RENNE and JEREMY "C'MON" The Sound: A joyous acoustic celebration of love and family.  If the duo's sublime debut "It's a Big World" was the musical equivalent of the sweet silence of pregnancy, birth and the 1st couple months of a baby's life - one filled with sleep and unmatched level of peacefulness - then "C'Mon" marks the toddler years - a bit more raucous, with more outward energy and a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-68792995346232761472009-11-09T07:10:00.003-05:002009-11-11T09:53:27.786-05:00

A Nutty Nutcracker Christmas is a madcap mash-up of Where the Wild Things Are, Candyland and The Nutcracker.  It's a super cool romp through the world of imagination, the depths of which are best explored sans electronic distractions. Ralph Covert (of kiddie rock band Ralph's World) and G. Reilly Mills have penned a remarkable tale of adventure, heroism and the creative power that lies between

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-68339996909644163472009-11-07T06:10:00.000-05:002009-11-07T06:12:14.249-05:00

The Monster in the Bubble is the 3rd and finest installment in the WorryWoo Monster series of books by New Jersey author and illustrator Andi Green. The series is centered around emotions - Nola is lonely, Rue is insecure and Squeek, the pink hero of The Monster in the Bubble, well, he's locked himself inside a comfort zone.  He (that's right, a boy who's pink - gasp!) shares tendencies with

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-45215467611793845252009-11-06T07:00:00.029-05:002009-11-06T08:28:03.484-05:00

The Jimmies are HUGE in my house.  They're probably the Bear's fave band.  Nary a day goes by without her belting out "Everyday's a holiday with you!", rustling her hair along with "Bedhead", or crooning to "Taddy" while the Mouse strums her air guitar and bounces around the living room like she's on stage at the Warped Tour (circle '95, you know, when it was cool). When "Trying Funny Stuff",

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-90771122465036249472009-11-05T17:07:00.000-05:002009-11-05T17:07:28.013-05:00

Peter Himmelman + Awesome Record Store + A chance to win a trip to NYC for a live Yo Gabba Gabba! show = one fantastic way to spend an afternoon in Tinseltown. This Sunday, November 8th, Amoeba Music is playing host to Kid's Day, an event comprised of a free Peter Himmelman (hey, someone I know just interviewed him) family concert @ 1pm and a Yo Gabba Gabba "Music is Awesome" listening party @

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-58922019189105292572009-11-05T07:11:00.004-05:002009-11-05T11:14:26.507-05:00

Peter Himmelman is a fascinating man.  He's an accomplished musician, having released countless albums, scored numerous TV shows and commercials, and is the host of a long running webcast called "Furious World".  He's also a Grammy nominated children's musician (for his 2007 album "My Green Kite") and recently launched a kid's webcast, aptly titled "Curious World".   Early this year Himmelman

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-26742874622555742012009-11-04T14:00:00.000-05:002009-11-04T14:00:21.907-05:00

My girls don’t go bonkers for TV these days, but when they do it’s not because of Big Bird or Oscar the Grouch. They never ask to watch Sesame Street nor do they turn it on themselves. Sesame Street may have been the one of the most popular children’s television shows, but sadly it’s not the sparkling series it once was anymore. Even though my daughters have three stuffed Elmo dolls, a Cookie

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-12967290030982711352009-11-03T07:43:00.004-05:002009-11-03T07:54:06.033-05:00

SARAH LEE GUTHRIE & FAMILY "GO WAGGALOO" The Sound: Traditional American Folk from the Guthries, Pete Seeger and Johnny Irion. In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Randy Kaplan, Elizabeth Mitchell, Dan Zanes, Dreyer Family Band Best Moments:  "Take Me to Show-and-Tell" is the favorite of my girls, laughing every time they hear about a turtle and spider being brought into school.  My fave comes

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-74790016761503577572009-11-02T06:30:00.003-05:002009-11-05T19:10:46.358-05:00

“Everyone is Someone” is the 4th album from Sheila Carabine and Amanda Walther, a pair of effervescent Canadians known as Dala, and it’s gaining traction here in the States.  This is in large part due to a game changing Sunday brunch performance at the 2009 Newport Folk Festival (the historic Festival’s 50th)   Shortly after their small stage set ended, Dala performed their pop-masterpiece

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-29292742492145519842009-11-01T07:55:00.005-05:002009-11-01T08:07:53.105-05:00

Billy Kelly, sans the Blah Blah Blahs, played upstairs at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia yesterday.  Thanks to the flu and other illnesses, Kelly's backing band was left behind in Lewisburg, PA.  Fortunately, the funny, talented kindie rocker came prepared with a Macbook, flip charts and a beatbox.  While the accouterments didn't totally make up for absent musicians, it certainly made for a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-45837307046658827862009-10-15T13:49:00.001-04:002009-10-15T13:49:43.060-04:00

I just got out of the hospital.  I was treated for the flu, then pneumonia and it sucked pretty bad.  I managed to make it to 33.75-years of age with nary an injury/surgery/major illness.  That was until this past Sunday.  I always hated/feared needles.  The last 48 hours I was reduced to a pincushion.  No fun. While away from my laptop for 72+ hours I found that I enjoyed the disconnection,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-61178229342896332962009-10-07T11:11:00.003-04:002009-10-07T11:18:32.974-04:00

A couple weeks ago, I reviewed the delightful new Scholastic DVD collection "A Very Brave Witch". Now, I'm giving a copy of the DVD away to 1 lucky reader. Head over to the OWTK Giveaway page for your chance to win this spooky Halloween Kid's DVD. You have until Tuesday 10/13/09 to enter.This new OWTK Giveaway page is going to see a lot of action in the coming weeks as I try to supply families

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-87540406781478956242009-10-06T19:26:00.007-04:002009-10-06T19:35:37.274-04:00

I don't make a habit of posting about individual shows, especially one's that I'm not attending - but this one warrants a quick mention.Human Tim + Robot Tim will be making their 1st ever LIVE performance together on November 1st in Chicago. If you're near the 2nd city, do try to get to the Beat Kitchen for the Tims inaugural kid's concert.Crafts and activities for the kiddies after the show,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-29421917711417911722009-10-06T15:46:00.003-04:002009-10-06T15:54:16.230-04:00

You've got less than 2 days left to submit your top 10 kids albums of all time, thus becoming a part of an ambitious poll curated by Stefan over at Zooglobble. If you feel woefully inadequate putting together your list - no worries, I felt the same way. Join me in feeling incredibly intimidated, yet fighting through it to submit your own top 10 kiddie records. Do so before the end of the day

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-90108287525365693582009-10-05T07:10:00.000-04:002009-10-05T07:10:00.293-04:00

I was never a fan of comics.Growing up, I think I was the only boy not reading Spiderman or, later on, Spawn. Despite my under appreciation of the style, I spotted some really cool looking comic-esque hardback books at my local library and recently took home 4 of 'em:Otto's Orange DaySilly LillyBenny and Penny (Just Pretend)StinkyAll 4 are Toon Books, a series of high-quality comics designed for

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-20430333905963371592009-10-04T07:08:00.005-04:002009-10-04T07:33:18.679-04:00

Over the past several nights, my dreams have been getting more and more odd. Usually, I don't remember a single one. They're either too vanilla to warrant a memory in the morning or I'm just not at all capable of recalling them. Well, I remember 1 from last night. Here goes:I'm called into the Mouse's room, where the Bear and the Mrs. already have convened, because there is a squirrel in the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-72822160661796928762009-10-03T09:13:00.003-04:002009-10-03T09:18:15.412-04:00

While the kindie music world is converging on Austin, Texas this weekend, OWTK will be rockin' out in rainy Hoboken, New Jersey. This afternoon is the launch party for the newest WorryWoo Monster SQUEEK!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-88944297378027923252009-10-02T18:37:00.003-04:002009-10-02T18:43:27.807-04:00

Ivy & Bean Book 6 Doomed to Dance will hit bookstore shelves in just about a month. As a family we're rather excited, because the 1st 5 Ivy & Bean books have been pretty much stellar. Check out this teaser video for the next installment:OWTK will have a proper review of the book early next month, along with information on Ivy & Bean Day (Nov. 7th) events at bookstores and libraries nationwide.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-69501789339819757822009-10-02T14:35:00.003-04:002009-10-02T14:41:32.994-04:00

The Jimmies are set to release a brand new DVD titled "Trying Funny Stuff". It's a collection of videos and a 45-minute concert (the live set is also included on CD) wrapped up into one fun DVD. There will be a full review of "Trying Funny Stuff" on OWTK next month, but I wanted to make sure all you Jimmies fans know about the DVD Pre-Order special. It's a good one.Buy it now and save $5!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-29699375055635177882009-10-01T13:06:00.000-04:002009-10-01T17:19:50.237-04:00

Dan Zanes is amazing.His hair, the leg slide thing he does, his raspy voice, the musicians he surrounds himself with - all of it practically perfect in every way. The Fine Friends Are Here!, his latest live DVD release (on the delayed heels of 2005's fine All Around the Kitchen!), is no exception.A Dan Zanes live performance is a winning combination of exuberance and warmth. Zanes himself

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-19633516263521352132009-10-01T06:06:00.001-04:002009-10-01T06:06:00.205-04:00

"That's How A Pumpkin Grows" is one of the best tracks off Brian Vogan's debut kids CD, "Little Songs", and now the tune has a sweet video to go with it. The video was directed and illustrated by Alberto Cerriteno and animated by Fashionbudda Studio. It's rather adorable. Happy October.Enjoy:Vogan is hard at work on his follow up to "Little Songs". Expect that album to see the light of day in

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-21142018506549479682009-09-30T08:51:00.003-04:002009-09-30T09:08:57.921-04:00

I'm quite excited for "Go Waggaloo", the Smithsonian Folkways children’s album from Sarah Lee Guthrie & Family. Anytime you can combine 3 unreleased Woody Guthrie tunes, Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie and Sarah Lee's sterling voice - you've got the recipe for some delightful family music.The disc isn't being released until October 27th, but you can pre-order now to score some impressive discounts

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-27815905856324633342009-09-29T09:54:00.003-04:002009-09-29T10:00:11.266-04:00

The South Carolina trio Lunch Money released one of the best kid's records of 2009 and now you can get it for free!As a way of celebrating their upcoming Austin City Limits Festival appearance, they are giving away "Dizzy" (the entire album!) to any and all for free. That's F-R-E-E!All you gotta do is sign up for the band's email list. Easy Peesy! Read the OWTK review of "Dizzy" here. Get the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-26900231235918615992009-09-29T09:47:00.003-04:002009-10-01T17:20:28.572-04:00

Grammy winning kid's music & storytelling legend, not too mention all-around swell dude, Bill Harley is giving away his new good-hygiene song "Wash Your Hands". Just in time, as Flu season approaches and schools are back in session with snot being distributed as frequently as milk cartons. Maybe you heard the song on NPR, now you can own it for free. Get it here.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-79783586880236810692009-09-28T05:00:00.002-04:002009-10-01T17:19:50.238-04:00

I imagine there are a good number of young families looking for good music to share with their babies and little children. That may be how you ended up here after all. You can take the easy path and turn to the Wiggles or Barney or Raffi. Those CDs are easily available and most everyone has heard of 'em. Don't.While most folks that read OWTK and other Kindie Rock music blogs think the name

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-32572610776845672392009-09-27T14:54:00.000-04:002009-09-27T14:54:57.546-04:00

Peter Himmelman's new, all-ages weekly podcast "A Curious World" launches today.Check out the 1st episode here.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-55842139120714341772009-09-25T10:16:00.002-04:002009-09-25T21:49:18.665-04:00

There are, I imagine, countless ways to chart the growth of a child. There's the classic physical growth chart, hanging on a wall or a door, that a child backs up against while their mom or dad draws a line right above their noggin. We have a Madeline one shaped like the Eiffel Tower. Moving from diapers to pull-ups to underwear is also a big milestone, one I'm hoping the Mouse accomplishes

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-77597616460089787762009-09-24T09:03:00.006-04:002009-09-24T11:09:40.217-04:00

The song of the summer finally has a video - a hand drawn, hilarious 2 1/2 minutes in which you get to see cartoon-Billy Kelly in a silk nightgown, a tutu and a kilt. In fact, there are more costume changes here than a Britney Spears concert. The concept of the "People Really Like Milk" video is pretty straightforward, giving a black & white visual to every word in the song. It's the

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-90433855376409987732009-09-22T16:38:00.001-04:002009-10-01T17:20:28.573-04:00

Readers of OWTK probably know how enamored I am with Bill Harley. His songs, stories, books and videos continue to impress me and my family. Bill also started a blog this year - a terrific read - and he contributes pieces to NPR from time to time. Tonight is one of those times!Tune in to your local NPR station this evening to hear a new Bill Harley song in a radio piece about the H1N1 virus.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-33222214431638649222009-09-22T14:06:00.003-04:002009-09-22T14:10:17.035-04:00

It's always a good day when new Dan Zanes music is unleashed upon the world. Today marks the 1st day families can pick up the new Zanes DVD/CD "The Fine Friends Are Here". You'll see a review of the DVD on OWTK soon. In the meantime, why not enjoy this video from the set.Dan Zanes and Friends - The Fine Friends Are Here

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-25804147180333657562009-09-16T19:04:00.004-04:002009-11-14T10:48:50.097-05:00

The Sippy Cups join Eric Herman as the only (as far as I know) kindie rock bands to venture into the iTunes app store. The Sippy Cups iPhone app is rather well executed with videos, photos, blog, concert listings and, best of all, puzzles. The 4 puzzles available right now feature some sweet artwork, including the cover of the band's latest release Time Machine. Best of all, this suckers free

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-66918750446216730782009-09-15T12:15:00.000-04:002009-09-15T12:16:28.346-04:00

My girls really dig the Scholastic video library we've amassed in our home. From Arnie the Doughnut to Where the Wild Things Are, there's nothing on TV better than what the Scholastic Storybook Treasures DVD series offers children.A Very Brave Witch and More Great Halloween Stories for Kids is the latest collection (available 9/29/09), just in time for pumpkin pickin' season. The lead tale,

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-56347250073569530802009-09-14T21:54:00.002-04:002009-09-15T11:04:19.389-04:00

I saw 9 a few nights ago and wrote a bit about the film over at iVillage. Check it out here.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-28337000995096312422009-09-12T19:42:00.003-04:002009-11-06T13:10:35.360-05:00

He is Bold. He is Pink...and he is here! We're giddy about the arrival of Squeek, the latest WorryWoo Monster to get the book treatment. Check out this amazing video for The Monster in the Bubble. Then head over to the WorryWoo website and pick up a copy. If you're in the NY/NJ/PA/CT area, stop by the W Hotel in Hoboken on October 3rd for The Monster in the Bubble Launch Party!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-24898106660299956922009-09-11T17:11:00.004-04:002009-09-11T17:15:44.084-04:00

Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner has a new production company and it's 1st effort is Glenn Martin, DDS. It's an animated show for kids that was recently added to the popular Nick at Nite primetime block of family programming.Before you let your kids watch this show about a traveling dentist and his family, read my thoughts on Glenn Martin, DDS published over on iVillage.com.[photo credit to

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-7278067417117697122009-09-09T08:06:00.004-04:002009-09-09T09:31:17.007-04:00

iVillage.com's big overhaul went live this morning, as did a few of my articles for the NBC/Universal site.Check out these posts: Adult Rock-n-Rollers invading the kid's music world.A Trio of Family-Friendly iPhone Apps - Flight Control, Harbor Master and Parachute Panic.A Preview of Angel Cat Sugar, the new character from the creator of Hello Kitty!

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-65023562357380831152009-09-04T10:11:00.000-04:002009-09-04T10:12:10.748-04:00

LAURA DOHERTY "KIDS IN THE CITY"The Sound: Folk music for city folks. A warm, familiar sounding record perfect for toddlers and pre-schoolers.In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Frances England, Little Miss Ann, John and Mark (of John and Mark's Children's Record).Best Moments: Doherty's covers of Robert Johnson's "Sweet Home Chicago" and Burt Bacarach's classic "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head"

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-84623245234116695362009-09-03T07:36:00.001-04:002009-09-03T09:51:33.559-04:00

My favorite kid's theater production ever is coming back to the DR2 Kid's Theater in Union Square, New York, NY.That's right, Dear Edwina's return engagement begins December 11, 2009 and runs through February 15, 2010. That's pretty awesome news on it's own, but here's the best part - order your tickets before the end of September and pay only $25 per person!That should be incentive enough to

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-5317370319310150742009-09-02T13:55:00.001-04:002009-09-02T13:57:43.820-04:00

Recess Monkey "Field Trips with Recess Monkey" DVDThe Sound: Beatles influenced (heck, who isn't) goofy, witty pop perfection.In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Billy Kelly, John Vanderslice, Robbert Bobbert, and of course, per their contract, Mayor Monkey.Best Moments: The trike race on Rainbow Road that ends inside the progressive Seattle school where 2/3 of the band inspire & teach the children

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-77032194663285543622009-09-01T18:08:00.006-04:002009-09-01T18:40:27.447-04:00

I've got an article up on iVillage today, it's my 1st for the site. There will likely be more "By Jeff Bogle" on iVillage.com. This one is centered around me sending my oldest gal off to Kindergarten.Check it out and, if you dig it, won't ya leave a nice lil' comment over there?

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-64808287162553277442009-08-31T06:59:00.001-04:002009-08-31T06:59:00.239-04:00

KING PAJAMA "SOMETHING SWEET"The Sound: Piano driven, bluesy rhythms and a heavy does of affection for Carole King.In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: Funky Mama, Sugar Free All stars, The Dreyer Family Band.Best Moments: "Heavy Coat" is the best song on the disc. It's absolutely going to have people giving you eyes as you sing to yourself "heavy coat / heavy coat / will you sail with me / on a

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-38332610606422005982009-08-28T06:54:00.001-04:002009-08-28T06:54:00.327-04:00

The first volume of a new series of books is likely to have several goals but none more prominent than to stoke enough interest in a young reader to keep 'em coming back for more. To that extent, book 1 of the newish Horse Crazy series, "The Silver Horse Switch" (by Alison Lester, from Chronicle Books), shines!Not only do the Bear and I eagerly await future books in the series, but we already

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-19340463681578859492009-08-26T16:42:00.001-04:002009-08-26T16:42:48.750-04:00

The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza, under the banner "House of Kids", will be bringing the kindie rock this fall and winter. Check out the 4 scheduled headliners:Justin Roberts & The Not Ready For Naptime Trio (October 17)Father Goose (November 14)The Sippy Cups (December 5)Gustafer Yellowgold (January 9)In addition to the top shelf kid's rock, all four shows will also feature performers from

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-88179742610444000462009-08-26T09:08:00.001-04:002009-08-26T10:28:54.389-04:00

The Sippy Cups "The Time Machine"The Sound: California kiddie psych rock.In the Cafeteria, They Sit With: The Jellydots, The Flaming Lips, Ralph's World, Eric Herman.Best Moments: "One Day Soon", the album's stand out track, tells of a child excited to learn to swim, read and, before long, blast off into space. The soaring chorus is insanely good. "My Angry Voice" delves into the emotions

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-29612122436730311692009-08-25T06:35:00.002-04:002009-08-25T06:35:00.707-04:00

I'm all for efficiency so, off the cuff, I'm trying something new here. I'm moving to a new format for record reviews in an effort to get through my gigantic batch of CDs a bit faster, cover more family music in this space and lessen the terrible guilt I feel in not discussing some of the really good music being made for us and our children.In short, less prose, more, um, reviews I guess. Expect

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-65607694333841881252009-08-24T09:51:00.002-04:002009-08-24T10:01:24.678-04:00

In case you weren't aware, kid's music superstars They Might Be Giants have a new CD coming out next month.I balked at the $17.99 initial price of the disc. Who the hell is paying nearly $20 (after taxes) for an album worth of tunes these days?I was then reminded that the new They Might Be Giants kid's disc includes a DVD...okay. And now Amazon.com, whose has the 9/1 exclusive (disc doesn't

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-23035387877805363812009-08-22T07:11:00.000-04:002009-08-22T07:12:54.967-04:00

Move over John, Paul, George and Ringo! You and your Beatles Rock Band are great and all but you've got nothing on LEGO people. Coming this fall, Lego Rock Band!(this video is a slow grower...stick with it until the more familiar "Rock Band" bits come in)MTV Shows

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-67264943076406687622009-08-21T06:23:00.004-04:002009-08-22T09:01:02.698-04:00

I don't usually cover website refreshes. Nor do I typically post about kindie rock band t-shirts (or petticoats) but The Not-Its! recently launched a snazzy new presence and have added sweet tees and pink tutus to their online merch table and well, OWTK really loves The Not-Its!Check out the cool new swag here.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-13528152262880103442009-08-20T07:05:00.000-04:002009-08-20T07:05:00.229-04:00

Hullabaloo's latest album of "organic kid-folk" tunes begins with "High Roller", the title track that will make you think Johnny Cash has been reborn. It's a diddy so darn good you may never get past it. "High Roller", the song, not only evokes the spirit of The Man in Black, it's the ultimate ode to being a cool baby out on the town and may just be the best kid's song of the year (also

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27046672.post-66270240368378778852009-08-18T16:55:00.002-04:002009-08-18T17:02:57.530-04:00

The Mouse and I caught Mr. Human Beatbox, Christylez Bacon, at the beautiful Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, PA this morning. Mr. Bacon played a couple tracks from "Banjo to Beatbox", his outstanding collaborative effort with Cathy & Marcy, and a handful more from his world music portfolio.The crowd was slow to warm up to him as he sat up there on stage alone but, about 3 songs in, they did.

Jeff - OWTKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02610796635807773270noreply@blogger.com0