It’s interesting how becoming a parent changes your outlook on just about every aspect of your former life - and music is no exception! As a young adult, I loved heavy rock and punk, and was heavily into the Canadian rock scene (this is not an oxymoron). While pregnant with my first child, I realized that my musical ways were going to have to change since every third word was a vulgarity I wouldn’t dare repeat today. Also the general content of this kind of music just felt inappropriate - I wanted my son to feel as though the world was happy, not full of torment and unrequited love.

That’s not to say that I had to trade in my Tea Party albums for “101 Children’s Favourites” - at least not completely. Music designed just for children surely has its place in our household, but I also think it’s important to expose Jaden to a wide variety of music. To that end, I’ve sought out musicians for children and adults alike, whose content is upbeat and music interesting to listen to. There have certainly been a lot of stinkers along the way, but I’ve managed to find many that are interesting for myself and my son. Quite often I even hear Jaden humming a tune or two from the “grown-up” albums, which is much better than me singing “The Wheels on the Bus” all day, every day.

A Kitchen Party in Any Room - Great Big Sea

Last modified on 2007-11-30 18:16:06 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

I have to preface my review - though Canadian, I’m not from the East Coast of Canada: I’ve never been to a kitchen party, and I will never drink Screech (though I’ve had a chance, but I gave it to my husband). That is not to say I can’t enjoy the wonderful music of Great Big Sea - a Celtic-esque group from the “tropical island of Newfoundland” whose music is a compilation of pop and traditional east coast music. No matter what your tastes, I think Great Big Sea is a must add to anyone’s music collection.

This group has been around for awhile - since 1993 when they put out their self-titled debut album. I discovered them way back in 1997 and thanks to my Newfie brother-in-law, Gord, have been enjoying them ever since. Over the years they’ve grown to be my absolute favourite group, and I currently own all of their material with the exception of their Great Big DVD. I can’t say enough about how great their music is for uplifting the spirits on a bad day. My son and I simply turn on the music, turn it up a bit and instantly we’re dancing and singing along. Also on several occasions, I’ve brought out a pair of spoons and tried to show Jaden how to play some accompaniment to the rhythm of the music. I love that I can expose Jaden to such an interesting genre of music - that is not only musically appealing but also tells tales of the traditional way of life for these sea faring folk. Furthermore, Great Big Sea uses instruments that one never normally hears (the fiddle and accordian are good examples), and their rhythm is infectious. Though they may sound quirky, I can honestly say these boys know how to get you moving, can tell a tall fish tale, and bring a smile to your face no matter how you’re feeling.

Though I strongly feel that any of their albums are a good choice (except possibly Courage, Patience and Grit - good material, but weird/poor sound recording on the CD and therefore not a good first impression) my biggest recommendation might be Road Rage as a great example of a live compilation, followed by Sea of No Cares. I’ll also add that should you ever get a chance to check out these boys live, you owe it to yourself to do it. Either as a night out or with the family on the occasions that Great Big Sea performs outdoors, it’s an experience you’ll be glad you had and you’ll be retelling the tale of your adventure just like the time you almost caught the big one that got away.

I know that anyone in Canada reading this review will have likely heard about Great Big Sea, but for those of you who’ve not yet had the pleasure and would like more information check out www.greatbigsea.com . There you’ll find the usual news about a band: their discography, and tour dates and fun facts about the group.