In My Hometown (by Tom Chapin, Children's Music)

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.

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.

Released on: August 18, 1998
Label: Sony Music
Genre: Children's Music