See more music reviews

Down at the Sea Hotel: A Greg Brown Songbook (by Various Artists, Children's Music)

common sense media says

Whimsical yet mellow folksy tunes for tots.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the 14 mellow songs on this delightful album were written by such luminaries as Neil Young, Tom Waits, and Mary Chapin Carpenter. They're performed, however, by a less famous -- but very talented -- group of artists. Legendary folkie Greg Brown wrote the title song, which inspired the accompanying children's book.

Positive messages: A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Fund, an organization dedicated to eliminating the environmental causes of breast cancer.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Down at the Sea Hotel: A Greg Brown Songbook

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how musical projects come together and how many people can collaborate to create something special. This one has many components -- the illustrator, the writers of the songs (many of them famous), and the performers (most of them lesser-known). Why do some people become famous and others (perhaps just as talented) don't? Is becoming famous always the most important thing, or is it enough to be respected by those who truly appreciate your work? In an era of reality shows where everyone can be in the spotlight, the quiet pleasures of folk music can be a welcome respite.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Seemingly inspired by sea shanties and carnival tunes (listen for the accordion and harmonica), DOWN AT THE SEA HOTEL has an appealing archival quality that will send kids to sleep with their imaginations humming. Richly illustrated by Mireille Levert, winner of the Governor General's Literature Award in Canada, the album comes with either a gorgeous 40-page illustrated book (at a higher price point) or a downloadable (and printable) version.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Down at the Sea Hotel: A Greg Brown Songbook is delightfully mellow, with songs written by such musical icons as Neil Young, Tom Waits, and Mary Chapin Carpenter --and performed by a group of very talented artists. There's an oblique quality to the lyrics on the CD that elevates it above many albums aimed at kids, and the irreverence and playfulness will keep adult ears attuned, too.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: October 23, 2007
Label: Secret Mountain
Genre: Children's Music
This review was written by Amy Weaver
 
 

Review It

 

Review Down at the Sea Hotel: A Greg Brown Songbook

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you add Down at the Sea Hotel: A Greg Brown Songbook to your playlist?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already listened to it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more music
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines