Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that there's absolutely nothing offensive or objectionable here. There is, however, plenty of good music filled with positive energy. See if your kid -- or you -- can keep his or her feet still!
Families can talk about which songs make you want to dance. You can also discuss the different kinds of instruments: Point out the horn and the piano and see if your kid can identify it the next time it's played in the song. You can even encourage your kids to "play" along with the musicians with their own "air" instruments.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Tony Whittum
With so much of the airwaves dominated by self-absorbed pop divas, detached rockers, and rappers clutching baggy pants all armed with messages that are either totally inappropriate for young children or absolutely indecipherable, it's good to know that musical alternatives for young kids do exist.
One of those alternatives is NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUND from Putumayo Kids, a division of Putumayo World Music. It's the eighth album in an award-winning Playground series dedicated to introducing kids to different cultures through fun and upbeat music. (Note: A portion of the CD's proceeds will be donated to the Louisiana Children's Museum to help expand their music exhibit.)
This album features well-known New Orleans artists such as Clifton Chenier, whose Cajun-zydeco sounds bop their way through "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie." Charmaine Neville (of the renowned musical family) performs her highly personal version of the classic parade song "Second Line" with hip-shaking sass, and Fats Domino tickles and bounces the ivories -- as only he can -- on "Whole Lotta Lovin'."
Many of the songs may not have been written or performed with children in mind, but the jumpy boogie-woogie and beautifully simple lyrics are timeless, ageless, and definitely engaging.
Fans of this album will also enjoy another Putumayo title, Swing Around the World.
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