BABY NINJA KINDIE ROCK ALBUM

Take a little bit of pop, a pinch of Americana, and a dash of African rhythm. Add in a taste of Cajun flavor, a touch of country and western with a Japanese flair, (and some dirty socks), and you have what fans have come to expect from Kelli Welli: originality, personality, a dose of the ridiculous, and lots and lots of love. The 16 tracks on the upcoming kindie rock album BABY NINJA explode with Kelli Welli’s creativity and include contributions from fellow family music artists and talented friends Uncle Jumbo, Claudia Robin Gunn, Nanny Nikki, Stacey Peasley, and the album’s co-producer and multi-instrumentalist, Bryan Daste. BABY NINJA, the fourth album for families from John Lennon Songwriting Contest Grand Prize winner Kelli Welli, is being released June 16, 2023 on Amazon, Bandcamp, kelliwelli.com and streaming on all major platforms.

If you are geeked about kindie rock then you'll love this giveaway. This geek daddy has prize packs that include the album and a 40-page comic book inspired by BABY NINJA. I'll randomly pick a few winners from all the eligible entries. To toss your name in the hat for a chance to get a FREE prize pack courtesy of Kelli Welli, just complete the rafflecopter entries before 11:59 pm on June 11, 2023. Must be United State resident over 18 years old to participate in this promotion. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BABY NINJA bursts out of the gate with the album’s title track, infused with a Southwestern, retro-martial-arts spy vibe underscored by this takeaway: never underestimate the very real power of a baby! Other highlights include an unabashed ode to joy, “You’re a Sunny Day,” featuring Uncle Jumbo, and “When You Dance,” a chant performed by Kelli Welli with Nanny Nikki, Claudia Robin Gunn, and Stacey Peasley. “Water Baby,” written for and about Kelli’s daughter, Kira, who absolutely loves being in the water, features a great vocal harmony background and a dazzling organ solo by Jenny Conlee of the well-known Portland-based band, The Decembrists. Kelli’s son, Ryan, is heard on “Ryan the Lion,” which he co-wrote with Kelli when he was seven years old.

The traditional “Frère Jacques” is sung in five languages, each paired with an instrument that represents the language’s native country. “Dirty Socks” is a sibling song to Kelli Welli’s popular “Stinky Shoe” from her 2022 album, Robots Don’t Tell Jokes. Kelli swears that “Dirty Socks” was written by her dog, Piper Peach.

In collaboration with illustrator Belén Toscano, Kelli has created an accompanying 40-page comic book based on BABY NINJA'S title track. A bold statement about the amazing and powerful things babies do every day, the comic book will be released alongside the BABY NINJA album.

“We’re having a great time making this music, but we also try really hard to make even the silliest of our songs smart, respecting kids’ brains and hoping the parents enjoy them just as much,” Kelli Welli communicated to ageekdaddy.com. “We have been so excited to create and share BABY NINJA! The title track trumpets from the album’s onset that we’re continuing to stretch the ways we present songs for kids and the people who love them.”

Kelli Caldwell, who performs for kids as Kelli Welli, is an active songwriter in both the children’s and singer-songwriter/Americana (“grown-up”) music arenas. She has released three award-winning children’s albums and was the Grand Prize Winner in the children’s category of the 2021 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. All three of her children’s albums won the prestigious National Parenting Products Award. She is a three-time winner of the West Coast Songwriters International Song Contest and was a finalist in the Great American Song Contest. Kelli is currently a finalist in the International Songwriting Competition, where she also reached the finals in 2019, 2020, and 2022. 

WHAT IS KINDIE ROCK

Musical artists who focus on content meant for children have developed their own niche that has become known as KINDIE ROCK. Many of these performers started off performing to adult audiences and have transitioned their styles to be suitable to youthful listeners. Dan Zanes (lead singer for the Del Fuegos), The Verve Pipe, and They Might Be Giants from performing at bars and stadiums to playing at libraries and community events as they've become leading artists in kindie rock.

Kindie rock artists don't necessarily alter their music style but instead the content so it is family friendly and in addition to being entertaining often incorporate educational aspects into their tunes. Kindie rock, also known as "kindie", is a style of children's music that melds the sensibility of a singer-songwriter with themes aimed at kids. Often times kindie rock is aimed at preschoolers; but some artists fine tune their performances for elementary school or junior high aged kids. Kindie Rock niche though tends to be mainly children aged 2 through 8 years old. 

I found my kids learned a lot while having fun listening to kindie rock songs when they were preschool and elementary school aged. Listening to songs at home and going to see performers provided good times and bonding opportunities. The best kindie rock artists are those whose music not only entertains children, but the moms and dads who are also in the audience. There is a reason kindie rock is referred to as not just children's music but "family music." 

My own kids' current appreciation of music goes back to us enjoying kindie rock as a family. They were exposed to various types of music by different kindie rock artists including the blues, jazz, folk tunes, country, latin music and more. Listening to music became engrained with them as something enjoyable to do. So, I regularly share information about kindie artists on this blog as a way to share the enjoyment my family has had with others. I hope you tune into these posts. Rock on! 

BRING ON SUMMER

Soon school will be out for summer and kindie rock artist Dana has recorded an anthem that will energize kids to get outside and have a good time during the break from their studies. She will be releasing on June 2 her upbeat new single BRING ON SUMMER which is meant to inspire children to partake in all the outdoor activities that are fun to do in the warm weather. The song will be released with an accompanying music video. This kindie rock tune, BRING ON SUMMER, will be available on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Bandcamp.

"I hope this song becomes part of the summer music soundtracks that they sing and dance to while engaging in joyful activities like swimming, picnics, and camping," singer/songwriter Dana remarked to ageekdaddy.com. “It would be great if listening to this song could be a source of motivation for families to make time to get out there and make some precious memories together!”

BRING ON SUMMER is sure to be a hit with families as they bop along to its catchy melody and driving rhythm. So, I'm geeked that Dana has provided some download codes of the digital release of BRING ON SUMMER for this daddi-o to giveaway. Complete the Rafflecopter entries below before 11:59 pm ET on June 4, 2023 and this Geek Daddy will randomly pick a few winners from the eligible entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dana has been writing and recording music for children and entertaining families across America for over two decades. CHILD magazine called her energy and enthusiasm “contagious” and named her as one of the “Top Five Kids’ Singers You Should Know.” Dana’s seven recordings have earned 27 national awards and wide critical acclaim. She has engaged thousands of young audiences with her live performances, music videos, livestreams, and Dana’s Music Playground video series, which streams on her YouTube channel and the Kidoodle and Sensical streaming platforms. Dana hosts her own award-winning radio show/podcast every weekday on children’s radio station JUMP 105.3. For 11 years, she served as a storyteller for her county library system, and since 2014, Dana has been teaching her popular “Music Playground” music and movement classes for little ones in Bellingham, Washington, near her home.

Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial

Did you know there is a monument to Michigan's police officers and firefighters that have died in the line of duty? The Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial is located at a meadow situated near the intersection of Telegraph Road and County Center Drive in the City of Pontiac. More than 800 names are inscribed on granite walls with a bronze statue of a grief stricken police officer and firefighter providing vigil over the monument.

While initially dedicated to those from the state who made the ultimate sacrifice in public service, the Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial has also added a tribute to the heroes and victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks that impacted not just New York City, Shanksville PA, and Washington DC but the Nation as a whole. Relics from each of these sites are encapsulated with informational placards about what occurred on 9/11. Did you know the fighter planes sent to intercept the highjacked Flight 93 that eventually crashed in Shanksville due to passengers fighting the terrorists were from Metro Detroit's Selfridge Air Force Base? A sad connection to that horrible day!

Additionally, as the site is part of the Oakland County government complex, a monument the County's fallen soldiers has also been incorporated into the Memorial.

If you are in the area, take a moment to stop by the Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial to pay your respects. For more information, visit michiganfallenheroes.com 

FREE ADVANCE SCREENING OF THE FLASH MOVIE

Warner Bros Pictures newest DC Comics superhero film, THE FLASH, races into movie theaters on June 16, 2023; but I've been invited to an advance screening of the movie at MJR/Troy on June 6 at 7pm. Always fun to see a flick before it officially is released; but even better when I can bring guests with me. So, I'm GEEKED that Warner Bros has also provided me with passes to invite people to join me at the MJR advance screening event. Want to go?!

Obtaining a RSVP pass is required to attend this FREE event so CLICK HERE to get one. Please note: seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and is not guaranteed. Because they may give out more passes then available seats make sure to show up a bit early to the theater. Hope to see you there! 

Worlds collide when the Flash uses his superpowers to travel back in time to change the events of the past. However, when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, he becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation. With no other superheroes to turn to, the Flash looks to coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian -- albeit not the one he's looking for.

SCREENING DETAILS: 

 Tuesday, June 6th at 7:00pm at the MJR Troy 

 LINK FOR PASSES: http://wbtickets.com/pcPZO07883

IMAX EARLY SHOWINGS OF THE FLASH MOVIE

Planning on viewing the new DC Comics superhero flick, THE FLASH, on an IMAX screen? Then you may be in for a big treat ... not only can you see the film on one of the largest possible state-of-the-art projection screens, but select IMAX locations are holding special showings of the film on June 12 a few days before the movie's official release on June 16, 2023. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets for THE FLASH at an IMAX location near you. 

Worlds collide in “The Flash” when Barry uses his superpowers to travel back in time in order to change the events of the past. But when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. That is, unless Barry can coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian… albeit not the one he’s looking for. Ultimately, to save the world that he is in and return to the future that he knows, Barry’s only hope is to race for his life. But will making the ultimate sacrifice be enough to reset the universe? 

Starring Ezra Miller, Sasha Calle, Michael Shannon, Ron Livingston, Maribel Verdú, Kiersey Clemons, Antje Traue and Michael Keaton. Directed by Andy Muschietti. Rated PG-13

SEVEN CAR BASICS EVERY VEHICLE OWNER SHOULD KNOW

Owning a car, especially for the first time, is an exciting experience. It’s a sign of adulthood and that you’ve grown up. It comes with quite a few responsibilities, however, and you’ll need to actually take care of your car. That’s where many first-time owners can get overwhelmed. 

With a few car basics you need to know, you shouldn’t have a problem getting started with this. You’ll not only be in a better position to maintain your car, but you’ll have everything you need if you run into any issues. 

As complicated as these can seem, it’ll be much easier than you’d assume. With seven particular car basics, you wouldn’t have a problem with your new car. 

Car Basics You Need To Know: 7 Important Tips

1. Get Some Emergency Kits 

No matter how new a car is, there’s always a chance it could break down. That’ll happen even if you’ve spent a decent bit of time and money maintaining it. You’ll need to be prepared for this to happen at any point, so it’s worth having some emergency kits in your car. A roadside kit also wouldn’t go amiss.

When you’re putting these together, make sure there’s a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, a tow rope, and similar items. They’ll make sure you’re able to look after your car and stay safe while you wait for someone to come out and fix your car for you. Since there’s no telling when a breakdown can happen, it’s worth always having these kits in your car. 

2. Have A Spare Tire 

When you first buy a car, it’ll likely come with a spare tire. If it doesn’t, it’s worth investing in one. You’d be surprised by how often you could need to replace a tire, and it’s always worth making sure you have something to replace it with. It’ll avoid the need to call out a professional just for a flat tire.

There’s usually the space for these spares in the boot, so you shouldn’t have to worry about having somewhere to keep it. When you need it, it’s simply a matter of switching it for the flat or burst tire. Make sure to pick up a new spare when you can to have one whenever you need it. 

3. Get It Inspected 

Car inspections are vital to making sure your vehicle runs smoothly. In many places, they’re legally mandatory, so you’ll need to know when to get a state inspection and where to go. Usually, there aren’t any problems with this, and it’s just a matter of taking the time to get it done. 

If there are any problems with your vehicle, the inspection will highlight them and you can get them fixed. Since it helps keep your car running properly, there’s no reason not to get this done. 

4. Replace Fluids 

Your car needs various fluids to operate properly, but these run out over time and need to be replaced. Make sure you do this as and when you need to, as you could run into more than a few issues if you don’t. Your car could seize up and cause a breakdown if you don’t, so it’s worth focusing on from the start. 

Make sure to check your fluids, such as your oil levels, regularly to see if it needs to be replaced. Don’t wait until they’ve run out to replace them. As soon as they start running low, top it up to make sure your car runs properly. 

5. Perform Regular Maintenance 

One of the more notable car basics every owner should know is they’ll need to perform regular maintenance for their car to run properly. Replacing the fluids, as mentionede a problem, a few things could start flashing every once in a while. One of the more notable is the check engine light above, is just the top of the iceberg with this. You’ll need to check and rotate the tires, get the engine checked regularly, and much more. 

It’s worth getting a professional to do this for you to make sure there aren’t any hidden problems with your vehicle. If you’re a first-time car owner, most of these could go over your head, making a mechanic the better choice to look through it. 

6. Check The Check Engine Light 

You’ll have quite a few things on the dashboard. While most of these shouldn’t be a problem, a few things could start flashing every once in a while. One of the more notable is the check engine light. If this starts flashing, there’s a large problem with your car, and you’ll need to get it checked out quickly.

It's a sign there’s something serious wrong with your car, and you should stop driving immediately. It’s worth getting it towed and taken to a mechanic to find out what’s actually wrong with the engine. You risk your own safety otherwise. 

7. Look After The Shocks & Struts 

The shocks and struts are much more important to your car than you might’ve thought. They’re an essential part of making your drive comfortable while protecting a decent part of the vehicle. While they mightn’t need much work with newer cars - if any - they can have problems with other vehicles. 

You might need to get them replaced or repaired at some point. If you hear any rattling or if there’s any rocking back and forth as you go over bumps, then your shocks and struts need to be looked after. Thankfully, this is a relatively easy fix, and you shouldn’t have to pay too much to replace them. You’ll be back to having a comfortable drive before you know it. 

Car Basics You Need To Know: Wrapping Up 

With a few car basics you need to know, you shouldn’t have a problem looking after your new car. Since this can be an essential part of being a responsible car owner, there’s no reason not to focus on this from the start. It’ll save you a lot of time and hassle, and even some money. 

Regular car maintenance, knowing the shuts and struts, and getting your car inspected are all notable parts of this. With how important they can be to looking after your car, they’re all worth considering and getting done.