These reviews by Fred Koch appeared in the August, 2002 issue of “Chicago Parent Magazine.” Reviewed in this column:
|
| Lately I have been receiving a lot of new lullaby and quiet-time music
collections. Parents of newborns have much to choose from when they need
some music to relax and quiet their babies. Here are some new selections
that can help you bring the joy of music into your homes and your babies'
lives.
Mellow My Baby by Sherry Goffin Kondor (2002, Sugar Beats Entertainment). This is one of the most publicized new releases and the first solo recording for Kondor, who is lead singer and creator of Sugar Beats. Subtitled "Soothing Songs and Lullabies," this 13-song collection features "Child of Mine," lovingly written by Sherry's parents, Carol King and Gerry Goffin, when she was a child. Other highlights include "Never, Never Land" from Peter Pan, "Stay Awake" from Mary Poppins, and a tender version of the Stylistics' hit "Betcha By Golly Wow." Other gently arranged songs include "Over The Rainbow," "The Inch Worm," and traditional favorites "Brahm's Lullaby" and "Rockabye Baby." After Sherry sings the 13 songs, she provides instrumental versions. Mellow My Baby can be found at music retail outlets for about $14 for the CD and $10 for the cassette. For more information, visit www.sugarbeats.com. Go Back to Top Cradle On The Waves: Lullabies and Slow Aires by Teresa Doyle (2000, Bedlam Records). Teresa Doyle, who lives on a small organic farm in rural Prince Edward Island, Canada, is producing some of the most magnificent Celtic and Scottish folk music you will find anywhere. One of her earlier children's music releases, If Fish Could Sing, remains a favorite of mine. Cradle On The Waves proves again that Teresa is an outstanding artist who creates memorable music for families to enjoy together. This magnificent recording showcases mostly traditional Irish and Scottish tunes ("Maid of Coolmore," "Dream Angus") along with a few original songs ("Cradle On The Waves," "Green Grow The Rushes"). Doyle's voice has a clarity and expressive range that is truly captivating; I am amazed at the lush musical nature of her music. The production and musicianship is world class and features mostly acoustic ensembles of fiddles, Celtic Harp, penny whistle, accordion, percussion and guitars. Teresa also has some great sounding kids singing with her. Unfortunately, you're unlikely to find this recording in your local Borders or Barnes & Noble, though they may be able to order it for you. I suggest calling Teresa directly (800/633-8282) for ordering information, or sending a request (along with $18) to Teresa Doyle, RR #3, Belfast, P.E.I, C0A 1A0, Canada. Go Back to Top Late Night Guitar by Tom Salvatori (2002 Salvatori Productions). If you enjoy soothing, acoustic guitar music, local musician Tom Salvatori has the CD for you. This is a collection of 13 original compositions arranged for solo nylon-string guitar. With songs like "Tucker's Lullaby," "Soft Landing" and "Sun Porch on Sunday," you will be quickly transported to a state of relaxation and calm. Since I am a guitar player, I appreciate his approach to creating simple, though not simplistic, melodic guitar pieces for late-night listening. In his liner notes, Tom says the highest honor he's received as a musician had nothing to do with the footlights of Carnegie Hall or any glowing reviews in the press. It came one night when he heard, "Dad, can you come in here and play your guitar?" Though Late Night Guitar may be available locally, you might want to check with Tom for more information. Call 312/318-1553 or visit www.lullabymusic.net. You can also listen online at www.mp3.com/salvatori. Go Back to Top Dream With Me Tonight written and produced by Lanny Sherwin (2001, Sandman Records). This is another independent release that is receiving a cradle full of critical acclaim. It has received awards from Parents' Choice, Children's Music Web and the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio. Written and produced by Lanny Sherwin, these 10 original songs will soothe your children and help you relax and wind down at the end of the day. There are countless lullaby recordings that were inspired by new parents and some of them are very nice. But Dream With Me Tonight stands out for three reasons. First, the songs are musically artistic and well-crafted. Secondly, Melanie Crittenden, who sings all the songs, has a warm and welcoming quality to her voice and presentation. And third, the music production supports and complements the lyrics and Melanie's voice without overpowering or overshadowing the vocals. Favorite songs at our house are the title song "Dream With Me Tonight," "Too Many Animals" and "Snuggle You." The CD also includes instrumental versions of five of the 10 songs. The CD costs $12.98 and is available by calling Sandman Records at 615/790-7275 or visiting www.dreamwithmetonight.com. Go Back to Top Folk Song Lullabies by Phil Rosenthal (2001 American Melody). This CD will certainly delight those, like me, who enjoy Phil Rosenthal's brand of American folk music with its warm vocals, lovely harmonies and intimate acoustic folk instruments (guitar, mandolin, dobro, accordion and percussion). Phil and family mix it up by offering traditional folk song lullabies ("Golden Slumbers," "Hush Little Baby," "Lullaby Medley") combined with some very nice original songs ("Mandolin Dreams," "Go To Bed"). These tender renditions will lull listeners to sleep and maybe win more people over to the folk music style. For information about ordering Folk Song Lullabies, call 800/220-5557 or visit www.americanmelody.com. Go Back to Top If you have read this column in the past, you may know I am a firm believer that the best children's music remains appropriate and meaningful years after its initial release. To read past lullaby and quiet-time recommendations from my Chicago Parent columns, go to www.bestchildrensmusic.com. In the Resource section, you will see "Fred Koch Reviews." Scroll down to read past reviews in "Best of 2001/Quiet Times," "December 2000/Best of 2000/Quiet Times" and "June 2000/Go To Sleep, Go To Sleep." Fred Koch is an award-winning music educator and a nationally recognized children's musician. His new children's music website, www.BestChildrensMusic.com, provides recommendations and information about selecting quality children's music, as well as access to past Chicago Parent reviews. Koch lives in Lake Bluff with his wife and son. Go Back to Top |
