10/22/08
Text: Nik Mercer
While none of us Anthem staffers are parents, we can safely say that we're not looking forward to the task of child-rearing in this day and age. Kids grow up with cell phones, computers, glossy magazines, brightly-colored toys, and electronic gizmos in lieu of baseballs, tree houses, skateboards, and comic books, and that doesn't make us too happy.
The heyday of Sesame Street, Pee-wee's Playhouse, and other similar preschooler T.V. shows is long gone, but there's, fortunately, a decent selection of "wholesome" programming you can feed your toddler without being either bored to death or petrified by the complete blandness of children's shows these days.
Our favorite is Yo Gabba Gabba!, a Nick Jr. series that centers around DJ Lance Rock (yes, a DJ is the main character) and a cast of cute monsters (or something), dubbed the Gabba Gang. Mark Mothersbaugh is a regular guest, and every episode features a rad, totally original tune by an indie group (Tahiti 80, the Little Ones, Biz Markie, the Roots, and the Aquabats contributed in season one).
Since the shows are made for preschool-age children, the topic matter gets a little monotonous (themes include friendship, eating, dancing, and being happy), but the visuals, ridiculously cool Pee-wee-esque sets, and strangely appealing music makes it worth viewing whether you're four or forty.
Along with the release of the first DVD, Yo Gabba Gabba!: The Dancey Dance Bunch!, Nickelodeon has also put out a Yo Gabba Gabba! compilation, exclusive to iTunes, that features the Little Ones, Tahiti 80, the Ting Tings, Biz Markie, the Roots, and the Aquabats' contributions.
Buy Yo Gabba Gabba!: THe Dancey Dance Bunch
