VARIOUS ARTISTS
The Bottle Let Me Down (Bloodshot)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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There is a god! Anyone tripping over rugrats knows the life and death struggle over controlling the stereo system, with predictably glum results: the little tykes win and everyone suffers through the endless Raffi catalogue. But no more I say, for here is a solution destined to satisfy both demographics. Rounding up the wonderful alt-country roster from the Bloodshot label, as well as some guests, to tackle kiddie tunes is a brilliant stroke. Whether it's the delicious voice of Freakwater's Catherine Irwin croaking her way through "Little Red Riding Hood" (complete with background howls) or Kelly Hogan's crooning kittie ode "Senor El Gato" (complete with background meows), there's something for everyone, of every age. Among the better moments is Cornell Hurds' kids introducing "Don't Wipe Your Face On Your Shirt" with a "look out, he's gonna sing" warning. Swell times all around.

© 2002 - John Sekerka