Ralph Covert of Ralph's World ©Liz Gumbinner at coolmompicks.com

Kindieness (kĭn’də’ nĭs) might have to become a new word in the childrens’ music world dictionary and it’s definition would be: a state of kindness in the kids’ music world. And, it would apply to this past weekend’s Kindiefest in Brooklyn.

Kindiefest, a music conference that concludes with an all-day music fest, was brimming with creativity, energy, and well….kindness.  From the way people walked up to each other to say “hello”, to all three hundred participants clapping along to the bands at the Saturday night showcase, the entire event was welcoming, supportive and open.  It was a total kindfest! The weekend also reinforced how many different styles, genres and concepts, independent family music now encompasses.  Rap, funk, folk, rock, and old timey music were all on display over the weekend.

The Saturday night showcase included a diverse and wonderful lineup.  Headliners Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players, fresh off a feature in the New York Times, did not disappoint.  They were tight, funny, super interactive, and ripped off an incredible set.  Rani Aro & daisy mayhem were also great playing fiddle, guitar, some sort of homemade drums, all of which they ditched for their last number that they sang a capella.  The unmistakably funky sound of the Hammond Organ made the room move as the Sugar Free All Stars really got things grooving.  But my favorite moment of the night was when Rhythm Child, with just a drum and a guitar got the whole room singing Amen, Amen.

One great way to find new kids music and keep up on everything that’s going on is to read the wonderful blogs out there on the subject.  Zooglobble, Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child, and Out With the Kids are a good place to start.  If you’d like to see some videos from the performances both Saturday and Sunday, do a search for Kindiefest on You Tube.

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Charles is part of the dynamic duo Fati & Charles, called Abbasubi. They perform songs for children in Spanish from their original CD, El Baile del Sombrero. Their show is very interactive and uses movement and dance to get their audiences involved whether they are Spanish speakers or not!  Fati, originally from Argentina & Charles, a native of Brooklyn, live in Midwood, Brooklyn with their two children who they are raising bilingually and who were the inspiration for the CD.

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