The Kerplunks: a don’t miss CD release party!
By Catherine Nutter, Gabriola Sounder
Monday, October 22 2007
Kids of all ages will be delighted to hear The Kerplunks’ self titled debut CD is hot off the presses. The Kerplunks, (also known as Dinah D and Tina Jones) instruct Melody Makers, a popular preschool music program.
This dynamic diva-duo has been charming kids (and adults) for years with their boundless musical exuberance in live performances. Now their fans can go Kerplunk any time the urge strikes - either with the full CD, or individual tracks that will be available on I-Tunes.
“We’re the new generation of Canadian kid’s entertainment,” said Dinah D. “There’s nothing wrong with the classics, Raffi and those guys, but we’re trying to do something a little different. There’s a definite resurgence in the popularity of real (non-synthesized) music. There’s nothing artificial. All the sounds on our CD are made by real instruments, or natural sound effects, like boots splashing in a mud puddle, for our famous song ‘Gumboots.’”
The Kerplunks 14 song CD has content ranging in style from funk, bluegrass, swing, reggae and rap. Many Island kids and parents will already be familiar with the material, as most of the original compositions were generated in Melody Makers sessions.
“The kids gave us feedback on early songs,” said Jones. “Lots of them didn’t make it through the kid filter. And it was the parents who suggested that we make a CD. We’re really excited about it. We have plans to tour schools, and spread the word about real instruments. Kids are amazed by some of the instruments, especially the big ones, like the stand up bass, or the trombone. Some of them have never seen real musical instruments before.”
Recent studies have shown that exposure to music does much more than generate happy positive feelings in kids, although that in itself is an excellent thing. Research shows that music training is far superior to computer instruction in enhancing abstract reasoning skills. Exposure to music helps to build the intellectual, physical and emotional foundation necessary for optimal achievement. One study indicates that music majors were the most likely group of college grads to be admitted into medical school. 66% of music majors who applied were accepted: only 44% of biochemistry majors made the cut.
While academics are focused on statistics and research, the Kerplunks are focused on fun, and plenty of it. These two dynamos aren’t still for one moment. With the CD project completed, they’re already planning their next huge endeavour.
“We’re getting ready to go into production of D’Ants In Yer Pants 2,” said Jones. “It was awesome last year, we completely sold out the performances, and it’s going to be even better this year. Watch for more info.”
The Kerplunks invite Gabriolans to attend their CD release party on Sunday, November 4th at
3 pm. Tickets are available at Artworks - $6 for kids, $10 for adults. If there are any tickets left, they will be available at the door, starting at 2:30 on Sunday, but advance tickets are recommended to avoid disappointment. Pre purchased Kerplunks CDs will be delivered soon.
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