Rock for the family

Ralph’s World: Peggy’s Pie Parlor

Mini-Fresh

CD: $16.99

For the family

www.minifresh.com

Chicago singer-songwriter-

guitarist Ralph Covert tops himself with each release. In this fabulous family rock ‘n’ roll album, Covert’s sophisticated instrumentals are a wow to adult ears and his strikingly original and deftly crafted lyrics about tango-dancing bears, cavemen, a banana-seat bike and glue disasters go right to the heart -- and funnybone -- of childhood.

The rockin’ tracks are nothing if not eclectic -- they include arrangements of “I Go Pogo,” from a 1948 album based on cartoonist Walt Kelly’s characters, and a goofy 1930s novelty song, “I Never See Maggie Alone.”

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The Mother Goose Jazz Band:

See How They Run

CD: $15

(518) 869-4324

For the family

www.mothergoosejazzband.com

Big talent is the spark in this terrific blend of smooth jazz, nursery rhymes and family songs, led by saxophonist Josh Greenberg with vocalist Laurel Masse -- Manhattan Transfer founding member -- bassist Chris Brubeck and other jazz pros. Arrangements pay tribute to the styles of Sonny Rollins, Charlie Parker and the Dave Brubeck Quartet; Masse’s voice is sheer heaven.