TDmonthly's ToyFair 2006 Preview--Audio & CD Product Category

Bari Koral Family Rock Band: Rock and Roll Garden by LOOPYTUNES

This 11-track album includes an array of pop and rock children's songs. 4/16/2010

The Big Picture by JACKPOT MUSIC

The Big Picture is a socially conscious salute to Uncle Rock’s musical heroes, including 12 original songs and two covers. Known for his rockabilly style and lyricism inspired by Roald Dahl and Shel Silverstein, Uncle Rock offers a musical variety show here with songs about recycling, acceptance of differences and the importance of shopping locally. Publicist Beth Blenz-Clucas of Sugar Mountain PR told TDmonthly, "These songs are fun but also provide food for thought." Launch date: April 13, 2010.
— Jenn Savedge of Mother Nature Network praised the CD for being “socially conscious” but not “sickeningly sweet.” She told fellow parents, “You'll honestly be glad when your kids want to hear it again and again.”
— Jeff Bogle of Out With The Kids was equally impressed by the mellow and more upbeat songs featured on the CD. He proclaimed, “If you’ve never owned an Uncle Rock album before, now is the time to rectify that situation.” 4/14/2010 (Price: $15) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Green Golly & Her Golden Flute by TUGBOAT MUSIC

"Green Golly & Her Golden Flute" introduces children to classical music via a lighthearted embellishment of the tale of Rapunzel. Green Golly relies on her musical abilities to help unravel the mysteries of life in this engaging tale of romance and rescue. Elizabeth Waldman Frazier, President of Waldmania Public Relations, told TDmonthly, "Green Golly & Her Golden Flute brings a breath of fresh air to kids’ recordings, combining classical music, storytelling, and comedy." Launch date: May 11, 2010.
— “The music is gorgeous!” enthused Heather, The 24/7 Mom. Heather felt that “the story is absolutely hilarious,” and that “this CD is an awesome way to introduce children to classical music without them saying, ‘Mom!  Turn on Hannah Montana.’ “
— Sheri of This Bird’s Day incorporated the CD into her daughter’s bedtime ritual: “The classical music is soothing and relaxing, and it has the added benefit of a beautiful bedtime story to kick off Baby Bird’s nighttime routine as well as mine.” 4/14/2010 (Price: $15.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Great Day by MILKSHAKE MUSIC

Featuring a mix of rock, folk and classical sounds, this 12-track album showcases the talents of the Milkshake band. It was nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children. 4/8/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Earthworm Ensemble CD by WESTERN SEEDS RECORDS

Earthworm Ensemble is a 22-piece folk/country group producing music the whole family can sing along to. Their self-titled CD contains 11 songs about worms, a pizza moon, growing corn and a superhero dog and bear.
— Dadnabbit’s Jeff Giles applauded the album’s ample heart, homespun feel and eco-friendly subject matter. He concluded, “Children’s records don’t get much timelier, or more well-meaning, than this.”
— Kathleen of Katydid and Kid enjoyed the lovely vocal harmonies. The casual feel of the recording made it perfect for her to dance to with her child.
— CanCan of Mom Most Traveled called the CD “fresh.” She shared the music with her pre-K students, leading an interpretative dance to “Bang A Drum” and humming along to “That’s What The Earthworm’s For.” 4/8/2010 (Price: $15.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights: I'm a Rock Star by LIMBOSTAR

Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights rock kids and parents alike with I’m a Rock Star. The 13 tracks on the album range from the rockin’ title track to the jazzy “I Like Jazz” to a game of “Joanie Says.” The CD also includes the soothing “Give Me a Hug” and Spanish song “En Español.”
— Katy Farber of Non-Toxic Kids exclaimed, “This music is hard to resist — infectious fun, that begs you to dance and move with your little people.” Both Katy and her kids had a great time singing and dancing along to Joanie’s pop-rock.
— Amelia Stewart, whose review on My Sentiment Exactlee includes a track-by-track breakdown of the CD, described it as “a perfect collection of songs for a daycare or preschool.” Though not all the songs were to her taste, Amelia reported that her son thoroughly enjoyed the music. 4/7/2010 (Price: $15.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

More Story Songs & Sing Along by DEBBIE AND FRIENDS

This CD features 10 kid-tested tunes by Debbie and Friends designed to get everyone in the family playing and dancing along. The release from the Boston-based artist, More Story Songs & Sing Alongs, features familiar themes like “I Think I Can,” “Simon Says” and “Little Red,” as well as songs featuring goofy wordplay or that encourage movement. Each song promotes social interaction and creative and physical activity. Even Sesame Street’s legendary music teacher Bob McGrath joins Debbie for a good-bye song. Launch date" March 30, 2010. Awards: Parent's Choice Foundation Audio Award Fall 2010 4/6/2010 (Price: $15) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Rockabye Baby! Lullaby Renditions of Journey by ROCKABYE BABY!

With “Lullaby Renditions of Journey,” Rockabye Baby! tells parents “Don’t stop believing in peace and quiet!” Screaming guitars are replaced by pinging xylophones and croaking frogs to transform the power ballads of Journey into peaceful lullabies. It’s designed so that tots and parents alike will enjoy rocking out and dozing off to the sweet sounds of these rock classics.

— Kristen of Goodie Goodie Gumdrops found it “almost impossible not to hum along” while listening to the CD with her little ones. She found the transformation of the Journey songs to lullabies to be “spot on” and recommended the CD as an attention-grabbing baby shower gift.
— Even without kids, music blogger Nick Spacek of The Pitch enjoyed the CD, though he claims he “had difficulty making it through to the end without feeling the need to curl up.” 3/23/2010 (Price: $13.99)

Driving My Tractor by BAREFOOT BOOKS

Complete with a CD featuring the singalong song "Driving My Tractor," this book follows a farmer as he collects animals in his trailer and then hits a bump and they all fly out! It's written by Jan Dobbins and illustrated by David Sim. 2/22/2010 (Price: $16.99)

Sarah Lee Guthrie & Family - Go Waggaloo by SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS

Joined by a host of family and friends including Arlo Guthrie, Pete and Tao Rodriguez Seeger, singer-songwriter Sarah Lee Guthrie presents thoughtful yet playful recordings of traditional songs and new compositions. The album includes three songs featuring lyrics by Woody Guthrie never before put to music and eight songs written by Sarah Lee and family. Awards: 2009 Dr. Toy ("Best Picks" Award) and 2009 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio (“PLATINUM” Award). Launch date: October 27, 2009. 2/4/2010 (Price: $11.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Lil' Iguana's Be Smart, Stay Safe Video and Music CD Kit by LIL' IGUANA CHILDREN'S SAFETY FOUNDATION

This video and music kit is designed to educate children about safety and well-being issues in a fun way. Award winning early childhood safety educational music video and 3 music CD's. "Our programs have actually saved many children as young as age 2 from abduction, child predators and serious accidental injuires," Jim Tomaszewski, Executive Director of LICSF, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2010.
Awards: 2010 Kids First Award 12/16/2009 (Price: $12.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kidz Gear Wireless Headphones For Kids by KIDZ GEAR

These IR wireless headphones are designed specifically for children with guaranteed 100-percent compatibility in all U.S. cars having built-in DVD/video systems, the unique features like automatic power off when not in use, independent volume control on the ear-cup and a comfortable design. "[The] unique design specifically focused on children's comfort, safety and fit make the Kidz Gear Wireless Car Headphones ideal for travel in the car or even at home (use the separately sold IR68KGTR wireless transmitter)," Jack Peterson, VP Sales and Marketing, Kidz Gear, toldTDmonthly. Launch date: Dec. 15, 2010. 12/16/2009 (Price: $34.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Eat A Bowl of Cherries CD and Shaker Drum by THE RHYTHM CHILD NETWORK

"Eat A Bowl of Cherries" is from Rhythm Child, an award-winning family band and real-life "Partridge" family group of musicians. Featuring 10 high-energy songs, the CD is created to promote positive music and personal growth for kids by incorporating pulsating rhythms and movements that encourage parents and children to sing, drum and dance together. Launch date: August 2009.
— "Bowl of Cherries" single ranked #1 on SIRIUS/XM's Kids Place Live 13 Under 13 Countdown, and remained on the charts for 13 consecutive weeks (2009). 12/16/2009 (Price: $14.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Rockin', Rollin' and Ridin' EP by BIG TRUCK MUSIC LLC

Rebecca Frezza & Big Truck's latest musical endeavor. A jam-packed, rockin', rollin' enhanced EP. Includes six new songs, two re-mixes, a guest appearance by Roscoe Orman, a.k.a. Gordon of Sesame Street, and an animated music video.  Launch date: November 10, 2009. ( Watch Video) 12/10/2009 (Price: $8.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Music in my Heart by BIG TRUCK MUSIC LLC

13 original children’s songs that take you on a toe-tapping trip through a diverse range of musical styles, with terrific tunes, rockin’ rhythms and enough energy to make the whole family want to come along for the ride. 12/10/2009 (Price: $14.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Road Trip by BIG TRUCK MUSIC LLC

On "Road Trip," Rebecca Frezza and her band, Big Truck, continue to accomplish their goal of creating children's music that adults can also enjoy.

Road Trip includes two songs that have been featured on NOGGIN's "Jack's Big Music Show". 12/10/2009 (Price: $14.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

iPom by MIK STAR

A touch of fashion with an attention to sound clarity and power. The new eco-friendly iPom speakers come in 3 different colors with expandable speakers that can be hooked directly to the iPom or placed as a satellite, and a built in subwoofer.

Bring a new look to any room or office with an astonishing sound and a Humanized touch control volume technology. The iPom comes with a remote control and a 3.5 mm output jack to enjoy the sound of your music. 12/9/2009 (Price: $99.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

iBoo by MIK STAR

iBoo comes with multiple cradles to dock your iPod, charge it and listen to your music in a fun way. You can conveniently control the volume up or down through the use of the remote control or through the new humanized patented technology implemented on the iBoo. The iBoo is eco-friendly and comes with a 3.5 mm input jack to be used with the iPod shuffle, your computer terminal, or any other audio source to enhance your listening experience. Available in red, white, and blue. 12/9/2009 (Price: $79.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

iPanda by MIK STAR

Designed with a Panda theme, the iPanda is a speaker that includes patented Humanized Touch technology to control the volume of its speakers while being fashionably sleek and cute. iPanda includes an iPod docking station at the top as well as a 3.5 mm input audio jack for other audio devices. 12/9/2009 (Price: $119.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

iPig by MIK STAR

The iPig is compact in size and packed with defining technology. It is not only an iPod docking station; it is the speaker that will bring life and an awe-inspiring experience to your audio, video and gaming devices. It includes patented Humanized Touch technology control to change the volume of the speakers via the ears on the iPig.

The iPig comes in three different fashionable shiny colors to suit your taste and complements décor around it in your home, office, or dorm room. The iPig is the perfect music buddy for all occasions. ( Watch Video) 12/9/2009 (Price: $119.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Miracle Sounds™ Maternal Whispers CD by MIRACLE INDUSTRIES LLC

Maternal Whispers is a baby sleep CD that mimics what a baby hears in the womb. The pulse and blood flow of the mother (the sounds the baby is most used to hearing) remain perfectly steady throughout, for 72 minutes, giving your baby a rhythmic and familiar sound to sleep to. 12/2/2009 (Price: $12.95)

...and a Happy New Year by THE KIDS AT OUR HOUSE

Award-winning children’s recording artists Danny Adlerman, Kevin Kammeraad, and Yosi, have joined efforts to create what is sure to be the most innovative winter holiday album of 2009. Danny, Kevin, and Yosi have been inspiring kids and families for more than a decade with both music and books. Through their friendship, an idea was born to create a CD that captures both winter holiday originals and inventive remakes of traditional favorites. The humor, love, joy, and excitement of the season shine through in this exceptional, all-ages, family CD. "This album is a collaborative collection of Christmas, Hanukkah, and Winter Songs all cohesively brought together by three award winning recording artists in one all ages, family CD," Kevin Kammeraad, The Kids at Our House artist, remarked to TDmonthly. Awards include Dr. Toy's 10 Best Audio/Video Tape/CDs 2009 and The National Parenting Center’s 2010 Seal of Approval. Launch date: October 15, 2009. 11/30/2009 (Price: $15.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

A Family Christmas by PUTUMAYO KIDS

This 11-track album features various musical styles and artists, including a jazz and retro number from Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, a bluesy tune from Christmas Jug Band, and selections from bluegrass artist Sam Bush and country star Deana Carter. Songs include "Sleigh Ride," "Let It Snow," "Holly Jolly Christmas" and other seasonal favorites. Launch date: 2009. 11/13/2009 (Price: $14.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

AlphaBeat CD by KID 2020 LLC

Suitable for ages 3 months to 8 years, this album features 26 tunes and jingles to help kids learn phonics and the letters of the alphabet. 11/4/2009 (Price: $7.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Risas y Sonrisas Songs to Learn Spanish Music CD with Song Lyrics Booklet by Risas y Sonrisas

The Risas y Sonrisas Songs to Learn Spanish CD includes 39 original and entertaining songs designed to teach students Spanish vocabulary and phrases. A booklet with colorful song lyrics is included. These songs can also be rehearsed using the illustrations and lyrics found in the Risas y Sonrisas program from the Student Book and the interactive CD-ROM. 10/29/2009 (Price: $12.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]