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.

Have you heard it?

Music Details

Artist

Tom Chapin

Genre

Children's Music

Label

Sony Music

Parental advisory

No

Edited version
available

No

Release date

8/18/1998

For Your Family