These reviews by Fred Koch appeared in the December, 2000 issue of “Chicago Parent Magazine.” Reviewed in this column:
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Holiday time is a great time for music, and most holiday music is family music. Music adds joy and meaning to our holiday celebrations and, in turn, triggers our own memories of childhood holidays (which, in my case, included a large dose of music). Here are a few of my favorite new releases for this holiday season. Arthur's Perfect Christmas (Rounder Records, 2000), features songs from the PBS special of the same name (to be aired the evening of November 23 and re-broadcast on December 24), plus 18 other holiday favorites from around the world. Songs from the TV special include Arthur's little sister D.W.'s versions of "The First Noel," "O Little Town of Bethlehem" and "We Three Kings," as well as some great new songs, my favorite being Binky's "I'm Not Scared of Santa." Other highlights on the CD include a swinging, jazzy version of "Jingle Bells," with some impressive clarinet jamming by Binky; "Here We Come a Wassailing," with a world music groove; and the very rockin' "Boogie Woogie Christmas." There's also a Kwanzaa song ("It's Kwanzaa Time") and a few Hanukkah songs (in English and Hebrew). Go Back to Top Another great holiday release is Celebrate Hanukkah (Craig 'n Co., 2000), a compilation of songs featuring some of the Jewish community's favorite musicians. Produced by Craig Taubman, this collection includes songs by Peter Yarrow, Ben Sidran, Debbie Friedman, Judy Frankel, Rabbi Joe Black, Sruli and Lisa, Linda Hirschhorn, Taubman and others. It's a comprehensive musical look at the Festival of Lights with songs representing contemporary, classical, Yiddish and Ladino musical styles. Taubman has worked for over two decades to bring to life the joy and spirit of Jewish heritage through his music. This is the second release in his "Celebrate" series, which he hopes will introduce an even broader audience to these musical riches. Some of my favorites songs include Ben Sidran's mellow jazz arrangement of "I Have A Little Dreidel," Joe Black's soulful "Tzur Chayeinu," Peter Yarrow's classic "Light One Candle," and Flory Jagoda's "Ocho Kanelikas," a Ladino Hanukkah counting song. I have to admit that until I heard this CD, I didn't realize the full range of possibilities for Jewish music. You'll know what I mean when you hear "Shel Chanukah" from Alan Eder's Reggae Chanukah. Go Back to Top With the steady increase in awareness of the African-American cultural holiday Kwanzaa, there is an increase in related musical releases. Kwanzaa for Young People (and Everyone Else!) (Charphelia Music, 2000) takes listeners on a musical journey through Kwanzaa's seven principles, most of which convey messages about self-esteem and good citizenship. Each principle is explored through its own special song. This is a very kid-friendly introduction to Kwanzaa featuring R&B-flavored melodies and singable lyrics that are easy for children to understand and remember. Go Back to Top Young children are sure to enjoy Happy Holidays (Youngheart Music, 1999) from Meeka and Her Cool Cousins. Meeka was 5 when she, her friends and family recorded this CD of kids singing great original songs and having a blast doing it. Children love to hear other children sing and perform, but lots of recordings which feature "kids only" singing don't cut it musically. This recording stands out because Meeka and her helpers sound like real kids--maybe a little out of tune, but charming and full of spirit. Meeka also has the advantage of having a dad who is a great songwriter. He and Meeka put a unique spin on the holidays by setting the songs in the Caribbean. In "Postcard To Grandma," for example, Meeka enjoys a balmy holiday but hopes her Grandma is having a white Christmas. Other favorites include "Christmas and Chanukah," "Snow" and "Santa In The Jungle" (to the Bo Diddley beat). Meeka also sings some familiar holiday songs, including her reggae versions of "The Chipmunk Song" and John Lennon and Yoko Ono's "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)." So if you're looking for something a little different this December, bask in the warmth of Meeka's Happy Holidays. Go Back to Top You shouldn't have any trouble finding Arthur's Perfect Christmas in retail outlets, but some of the other titles might not be as readily available. For information about Celebrate Chanukkah call 800/627-2448 or visit www.celebrateseries.com. For Kwanzaa for Young People call 888/299-2650 or visit www.charphelia.com, and for Happy Holidays call Youngheart Music at 800/444-4287. Readers, keep those comments and recommendations coming. My e-mail address is fred@bestchildrensmusic.com or write to me in care of Chicago Parent. 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 |
