Here Comes the Big Red Car (by The Wiggles, Children's Music)

The Wiggles, the Australian kids' music sensation, are adept at producing warm-sounding, family-friendly, kid-safe tunes with an oldies-rock feel, alternating with a folksy feel. On HERE COMES THE BIG RED CAR, they deliver 26 lively, enjoyable songs. (Note: Most of these songs were previously released on the Dance Party CD, so don't buy this if you have that one). High points include "Five Little Joeys" (an Aussie take on "Five Little Monkeys"), arranged with drum and keyboard tracks that are absolutely inspired, and "I'm a Cow," a (very short) song guaranteed to get the whole family mooing along.

If the Wiggles are new to you, this album is a good choice. The performances are accomplished and professional without sounding overly slick. The songs are accessible and easily understood, the content toddler-appropriate, and the production values sophisticated enough not to offend picky parental ears. The Wiggles might not be the cleverest of songwriters, but they are so well intentioned and just plain nice that it doesn't matter. The award-winning quartet will win your preschoolers over without making you cringe (too much).

Released on: February 10, 2006
Label: Koch Records
Genre: Children's Music