Picks and Pans Review: Spotlight on ... New Music for Kids

UPDATED 07/19/2010 at 01:00 AM EDT Originally published 07/19/2010 at 01:00 AM EDT

Check out these summer releases-perfect for road trips or living-room dance parties.

RECESS MONKEY, THE FINAL FUNKTIER

The clever trio (above) kick it space-age style on a boppy set with songs like "Ukulalien" and "Beat-Box-a-Robot" that future astronauts will find irresistibly fun.

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THE DREAM JAM BAND, LEAVE IT IN THE SOUP

These four music teachers mix classical ("I Can't Tie My Shoes"), surf-rock ("Bad Hair Day") and flat-out silliness ("Boing"). Best for preschoolers.

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AARON NIGEL SMITH, EVERYONE LOVES TO DANCE!

Mellow tunes with just enough groove for little ones. Singalongs like "Muffin Man" and "This Little Piggy" ("This little piggy had tofu") have an islandy vibe.

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PUTUMAYO KIDS PRESENTS: ROCK & ROLL PLAYGROUND

Putumayo's latest boasts songs from faves Dan Zanes, Brady Rymer and Bill Harley. Grandparents will get a nostalgic kick from "Magic Carpet Ride" and "Willie and the Hand Jive."

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RHYTHM TRAIN

Dick Van Dyke raps! The 84-year-old joins Leslie Bixler and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) for an eclectic collection. Julia Roberts is a fan.

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THE BEST OF THE LAURIE BERKNER BAND

Finally! The kids' music guru's first hits disc includes "Victor Vito" and "BOOTS."

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