Smithsonian Folkways release of 1950-70 children’s songs recorded low-fi in small settings by Glazer and his acoustic guitar + audience participation. Before you pass this off, appreciate the low fi recording, also take note that this is pre-Raffi, pre-Barney, pre-Sesame street, all that. Keep in mind that these simple-folk-melodies-turned-into-children’s songs no doubt played a big role in the minds of youngsters who grew up to be the Beatles, and the playfulness and entertainment of it no doubt influenced a young Jim Hensen, who we all need to give a big nod to. Indie rock, and especially the “twee” influence that occurred about 10-12 years ago are clearly embodied in this. Okay, before I get too analytical, just play track 8. Or any track if you are inclined to be ironic or just throw your audience off balance (Ragnar, Chief, are you listening?). But seriously, this is magnificent stuff, improvised, completely unpretentious, and the vibe of love and appreciation coming through the speakers is infectious. Not to mention the sly adult overtones thrown in here and there (just like Bugs Bunny). Okay, maybe you have to be a parent to appreciate stuff like this, but let me tell you: when you have a kid and theres crap like teletubbies and barney everywhere you fall to your knees and thank god when Sesame Street releases a cd of music or Hollywood puts out The Iron Giant, Toy Story, and Monsters Inc. and passes them off as “childrens” entertainment. This is good stuff.

No track by track, but keep in mind: All tracks low fidelity except track 7 that sounds like a studio recording and, frankly, sucks because so. Tracks 13 and above include vestiges of a band backing him, minimal Hammond organ. I HIGHLY recommend listening to track number 8, even if you don’t play this on the radio. Its beautiful.