Timeless Songs, New Harmonies

Audio

Folksongs and Bluegrass for Children, A Phil Rosenthal Collection. American Melody. CD: $16. Cassette: $11. Ages 2 and up. https://www.rounder.com/.

A treasure chest of timeless songs from the heart, mostly culled from Phil Rosenthal’s American Melody albums. With other superb musicians, Rosenthal performs the gorgeous instrumentals on banjo, guitar, mandolin, bass, fiddle, harmonica and more--and his folk vocals on the original and traditional songs tell vivid stories and reflect a gentle warmth. Animals party in “In the Jungle”; listeners take a dreamy train trip in “The Train Song”; comical “Aiken Drum” has spaghetti hair and a carrot nose. Rosenthal gives Edward Lear’s whimsical “Calico Pie” musical bounce and makes tried-and-true songs such as “The Paw Paw Patch,” “The Teddy Bear’s Picnic” and “Mama Don’t Allow” seem vibrantly new.

Still the Same Me. Sweet Honey in the Rock. Rounder Kids. CD: $16. Cassette: $11. Ages 4 to 8.

An all-encompassing musical embrace from the veteran a cappella ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock. Featuring the same assured, flowing harmonies and celebratory energy that the group gives to its work for adults, this new children’s album plays with African, blues and urban rhythms.

Effervescent improvised songs and percussion are sparked by one lively track, “Rhythm Slam!” Other humorous or soulful songs include the bouncy “I Love to Laugh,” the “We’re Almost Home” spiritual, and the African American Church and freedom song “We Shall Not Be Moved.” “Way Down Deep” is an especially stirring affirmation for every child: “Way down deep in your deep deep heart is a fire / Way down deep in your deep deep mind is a garden.”

Liner notes include lyrics and a child-friendly interview with ensemble members.