In My Hometown

Review

Common Sense Media says

Charming live performer whose charisma shines.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

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Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that most of the songs are more reflective than educational.

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What's the story?

In his earlier efforts, Tom Chapin would frequently wink at parents in his songs, celebrating childhood with the sensitivity of an active father. IN MY HOMETOWN finds him focusing his empathy more on the child, offering amusingly familiar vignettes: a street fair, a lemonade stand, and a Halloween party at a firehouse. The lead track paints an accurate picture of those panic-filled moments before the school bus arrives. "A Mozart Duet" provides solace for any child who has struggled with piano lessons and recital anxiety.

Is it any good?

 

Chapin explores a variety of musical styles on the album, including Celtic, ragtime, doo-wop, mariachi, and classical. Reggae and ska influences are even heard on two tracks, albeit in watered-down form. Chapin is a charming live performer whose charisma comes across in this recording. It is more rock-oriented than his other albums, but with a decidedly kid-friendly softness.

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What families can talk about

Families can talk about the spirit of inclusiveness that "His Name is Ty" presents, promoting being nice to new kids at school, as well as "My Town Is a Salad Bowl," which celebrates the strength that diversity brings to a community.

This review was written by Andy Davis

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This review was written by Andy Davis
Artist:Tom Chapin
Release date:August 18, 1998
Label:Sony Music
Genre:Children's Music
Parental advisory:No
This review was written by Andy Davis
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is age-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.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.
Our child development rating guidelines

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