Laura Veirs’ delightful collection of folk songs (which she was inspired to put her own spin on after the birth of her son last year) is a useful tool for parents wishing to instill a love of music in their child without listening to “Humpty Dumpty” on repeat. Her recording covers a wide range of folk songs, from early 20th century work songs to the ballads of Jimmie Rodgers, Woody Guthrie, Peggy Seeger and Harry Belafonte, each lifted and lightened by Veirs’ charmingly jaunty voice. Songs about horses, frogs and mommas will keep a child entertained without driving an adult insane, a true rarity when it comes to music aimed at kids. Guest appearances by Colin Meloy of The Decemberists and Louisville’s finest, Jim James, will make the family sing-along even more enjoyable. The songs are twangy and repetitive enough to keep your mini-me quiet on car journeys, while melodic and restful enough to ensure you don’t need to be locked in a dark room once you reach your destination.
This article appears in November 21, 2011.