Artists
A Song for Ira by Harold and Ruth is a concept album. The idea behind the album is that an adult son buys his parents song-writing classes and a recording session to encourage them to try something new. The results are eight songs about growing up Jewish in Toronto with sounds of folk, rockabilly and even some familiar tunes. This concept album is written and composed by Toronto artists Eric Warner and Jason Craig. It also features the vocals of Warner’s sister Erin Warner. (Yes, their parents named them Eric and Erin)! The lyrics take inspiration from the group’s personal experiences and those of family members, including the Warners’ grandfather who lived to nearly 103, seeing Toronto and its Jewish community transform over a century. There are songs about growing up near Kensington Market, weekly visits to United Bakers, going to synagogue to celebrate the holidays throughout the year, family vacations and changes that take place over time and lived experience.
Macaroni Birthday Sing Rock ‘N’ Roll Songs for Children is a stripped down, head bopping, collection of songs that call to mind punk and rock influences like the Ramones or Screeching Weasel. Sugar coated just enough to please infants and toddlers alike the two advance singles explore themes based in pedagogy around child development. Recite The Rainbow, one of the advance singles, explores how fun it can be to eat the colours of the rainbow. The duo explains "corn, broccoli, oranges, blueberries - these are all foods that are as good for you as they are good to look at". The other advance single out now is Wanna Have Fun. This inspiring song is about all the ways you can have fun with friends. From singing songs, reading books, playing sports, and helping out those in need, the song is an anthem for finding fun in everyday activities. Macaroni Party have built a learning experience for children using scaffolding techniques where lessons and themes build on each other and keep children entertained with exciting sounds, repetitive rhythms, and memorable lyrics.