See more music reviews

Jerzy the Giant (by The Terrible Twos, Children's Music)

common sense media says

Rockin' album for tots and grown-ups.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this is a very kid-friendly album that attempts to give voice to some common childhood dilemmas. With songs about bullying, being a big brother, and trusting your friends, kids will have an easy time relating to the lyrics. Parents will enjoy an album that's presented in a light indie-rock fashion.

Positive messages: Songs like "Playground" and "The Plan" present positive attitudes toward common childhood issues. "Archibald McCallister" encourages smelly kids to take a shower and "Big Baby J" discusses being a big brother in a positive and honest way.
Violence: The song "Playground" discusses how to deal with a bully and includes lyrics about a kid being bullied and pushed down.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: "Great Big Poop" is a scatological song that continually repeats the phrase "great big poop" -- although it doesn't go into any further details so it stays silly and not too gross.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Jerzy the Giant

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about dealing with common kid problems. Many songs on this album cover life challenges from a kid's perspective. "Playground" addresses the problem of bullying. Do you think the narrator makes a good decision on how to deal with his bully? Could you think of any other ways he can stand up for himself?

What's the story?

What's the story?
From the drudgery of taking a shower to dealing with a messy new sibling, JERZY THE GIANT relates to the pressing issues in kids' lives. This collection of 16 songs that follow the ups (being a big brother) and downs (toilet training) of childhood are set to rock-infused rhythms and beats. The Terrible Twos bring a bumpin' pedigree to their children's music: Lead singer Matthew Pryor is a former member of The Get Up Kids and currently leads the indie-rock band, New Amsterdams.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
If you like Ryan Adams or Five for Fighting yourself, you probably won't mind this modern take on children's music -- and either will your kids. For the youngest listeners, there's the simple repetitive lyrics on many tracks like "Great Big Poop," Elliott Oooh," and "Lily Names Everything Sandy." This might get a little redundant for parents and older kids, but makes for easily understood messages for the preschool set. Grade schoolers will enjoy the easy-going thoughts of dealing with the adversities of being a kid and the rockin' beats that really shine on tracks such as "Jump Jump Jump" and "The Plan." And parents will appreciate the warmhearted vocals, retro pop-rock stylings, and innocent fun found on the entire album. But be warned, the last track, "Whisper the Melody," might just bring a tear to your eye.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: July 29, 2008
Label: Vagrant Records
Genre: Children's Music
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

Review It

 

Review Jerzy the Giant

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you add Jerzy the Giant to your playlist?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already listened to it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more music
About our rating system
ON: Content is 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
Our child development rating guidelines