Mouse Jamboree (by Mary Kaye, Children's Music)

In singer/songwriter Mary Kaye's second release, MOUSE JAMBOREE, she clearly reflects the lives of her daughters (ages 4 and 6). Reminiscent of Jonathan Richman's sensibility, Kaye writes of simple pleasures like hole-digging or sitting by the heater. Other songs tell magical tales of elves, unicorns, and tooth fairies. In one track, Kaye's whimsical perspective offers a Thumbelina's-eye view that allows little listeners to see the world through teeny-tiny eyes and consider a life in which "a blade of grass is like a tree." "The Library Book" recounts the tale of a cherished library book checked out over and over again. It could even help get kids psyched for a library visit.

While many children's music artists cast a wide net, singing about generalized childhood topics for the generic kid, Kaye's lyrics reflect a mom who closely observes her children's interests. Her warbly vocals recall Natalie Merchant or Rickie Lee Jones, and her appealing folk-rock arrangements include some pleasing harmonies and vocal layering that's a notch more sophisticated than your garden-variety kid entertainers. Kaye's rich warm music is something that families will want to play again and again.

Released on: January 15, 2005
Label: Mary Mary Music
Genre: Children's Music