Are you a parent of young kids and a little tired of listening to Baby Shark on repeat?
Well then, look no further than RTEjr Radio's latest music podcast for preschoolers, The Antix.
When singer-songwriter Deborah Byrne (Hvmmingbyrd) and producer Chris Bubenzer (Jafaris, Soule) bonded over their mutual dislike of some children’s music, they had no idea where it would lead them.
After some productive co-writing sessions in Bubenzer’s studio The Playground in Dublin 8, Byrne and Bubenzer decided to partner up to create music with preschool themes while also drawing on their own electronic, pop and hip hop influences.
This soon led to their creating The Antix, an episodic audio series about a girl called Maggie who has a musical ant farm on her bedroom shelf.
"If Bluey has taught us anything," says Deborah Byrne, it's that there is value in creating art that is enjoyable for both the parents and their children. Rather than relying on the old favourites which can get a bit tiring after the 100th listen, Chris (Bubenzer) and I essentially created the kind of music that we can enjoy rather than endure with our children."
The Antix showcases the diversity of the Irish independent music scene, featuring a talented cast of artists including Jafaris, Jess Kav, NIYL and Deborah Byrne, who each sing two songs on the show.
So why would an independent artist who usually releases music for general audiences, decide to get involved with a show for preschoolers?
Singer Niall O’Halloran who plays Carl explains: "I couldn’t miss the opportunity to join the cast of The Antix - music and creativity is such a fundamental part of growing up so lending my voice to a show full of musical bangers and important messages is a privilege. People are going to love The Antix, not only the kids but the parents will be having a good bop as well."
Jess Kav who is a vocalist, writer and musical theatre performer says: "I accepted the part of Queen in The Antix because it sounded like a really fun project but more importantly, I think it’s vital that children are exposed to a diverse range of musical genres from a young age. The quality of the music production that Deborah and Chris have created is as good as anything you will hear on the radio, and why not? Kids and parents should be able to enjoy music together."
Percy Chamburuka, known professionally as Jafaris, who featured in the hit movie Sing Street and whose album was nominated for a Choice Music Prize, adds: "With younger siblings myself, the music on The Antix really stood out to me as something different compared to other music for preschoolers. Rapping with 4 year old Max was such a great first time experience. I was inspired by how well he took direction and was just down to work at such a young age. The whole project is something I’m grateful to be a part of and I hope it will inspire the younger generation."
Check out The Antix for yourself on RTÉjr Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
