Chicago Parent Magazine

Great new tunes by old masters

January 2002

by Fred Koch

I'm a big fan of Gunnar Madsen's first recording, Old Mr. Mackle Hackle, so I was eager to hear his new release, Ants in My Pants (Gee Spot Records, 2001). I wasn't disappointed. Ants in My Pants delivers on many levels.

Madsen is a multi-talented artist. He founded and toured with the very hip a-cappella group, The Bobs. He has written music for feature films and lent his talents to a variety of other creative projects. He also happens to be blessed with all the traits necessary to produce cutting-edge children's music: a great sense of humor, superb musical sensibilities, and the ability to move effortlessly from one musical style to another.

The first time I listened to Ants in My Pants , it swept me off my feet. These are great songs arranged and performed with a tangible exuberance. And while kids ages 5 and up will enjoy them, they appeal to adults, too, because they help connect them with the joys and complexities of childhood.

It wasn't until the second listening that I began to focus on the underlying messages in the songs. For instance, the title track, "Ants in My Pants", comes off at first as a fun rockabilly, Elvis-induced dance number full of fun word play. But it also speaks about adults(in this case, a teacher) who lose touch with the need to be active and move around. "Welcome To My Fog" is a catchy and singable little song, but it also provides a light look at the trials and tribulations of ADD.

Another outstanding song is "And The Children rolled," with its anthem-like, Pied-Piper march feel - a sort of modern day "Frog Went A-Courtin'." Children also will appreciate the rhythmic fun of "Like Two Coconuts," the very danceable "Old Baloney," and indisputable wisdom of "Don't Shake Hands with a One-Eyed Pirate."

Madsen's strength is his eclectic approach, encompassing many musical styles. Ants in My Pants is great fun!

Fred Koch is an award-winning music educator, children's musician and nationally recognized workshop clinician. His website, www.BestChildrensMusic.com, provides recommendations and information about selecting quality children's music, as well as access to past Chicago Parent reviews. Koch lives in Lake Bluff with his wife and son..

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