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CD Review: Kids Book Bridges Oregon Coast, Portland

 

Covering 180 miles of Oregon coast travel: Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Nehalem, Wheeler, Rockaway, Garibaldi, Tillamook, Oceanside, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Newport, Waldport, Yachats & Florence.

01/16/08

Secrets of the Season

CD Review: Kids Book Bridges Oregon Coast, Portland

By Andre' Hagestedt

Devin Phillips

(Manzanita, Oregon) - Something new and wonderful just popped out of the Oregon coast – and out of Portland as well. “One Night in Frogtown” is a massive, impressive collaboration between an Oregon coast writer/producer, a Portland illustrator and a host of Portland musicians. It’s essentially a kid’s book and CD. But like a myriad of creative movies geared towards kids these days, “Frogtown” is equally amusing to adults as well, especially with its all-star northwest talent lineup that includes Curtis Salgado, Linda Hornbuckle, Eric Robinson, Andy Stokes, Thara Memory and Devin Phillips, among others.

Self-publishing a gloriously colorful children’s book like this one is no easy feat to begin. But Philip Pelletier of Manzanita and Portland illustrator Verne Lindner have gone several steps farther, not only creating a masterful CD full of music that appeals to all ages, but Pelletier managed to corral a host of famed Portlanders into this expansive, whimsical project.

Cover of "Frogtown," by Verne Lindner

The CD accompanies the book, with little cues to turn the pages as the story is read by Portland blues master Curtis Salgado (he was one of the big inspirations of John Belushi’s “Blues Brothers” characters after Belushi saw him perform in Eugene during the filming of “Animal House” in the 70’s). Call it kid’s music that is accessible to adults – or perhaps “Frog Rock” would be the best term – but this CD and its book do indeed rock.

Pelletier brought all the musicians to his north Oregon coast studio, where he recorded them, produced the CD and then self-published it with Lindner. He played most of the background instruments.

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It’s Pelletier you hear in the opening segment, and the musical bits in between: ethereal, floating synthesizer orchestrations that sound like twinkling aural starlight, with saxophonist Phillips and Salgado’s narration on top. Altogether, between the fanciful drawings, the kooky music and the very funky vibes, the whole effect is a bit reminiscent of the old “Schoolhouse Rock” cartoons we remember from our childhood in the 70’s (well, some of us are old enough to remember).

Philip Pelletier recorded and produced the whole CD in his studio in Manzanita

Salgado’s cadences are lilting and subtly amusing as he tells the story of a musician tadpole who wanders beyond his usual confines and into three distinctly different musical worlds that are somewhat intolerant of the others.

The first different plane of existence he encounters is the blues world, which is brought to life by the song “Middle of the Road.” It’s a slinky blues tune with a hefty groove, where Hornbuckle is soulful and commanding, but plenty of fun. Phillips’ saxophone peppers the entire song with sinewy fervor. At one point, the song wanders into bluesy psychedelic territory, like something Sting might’ve done a time or two in his solo career.

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The second song, “Above It All,” is about our froggy hero encountering a group of tree frogs whose lives revolve around classical music. With hints of Prog (or should we say Frog Prog), “Above It All” sounds a bit like a lost Asia song, but with chicks on vocals. Actually, more like Asia-lite, as if Asia’s John Wetton had been neutered. It’s also not hard to imagine Mel Collins (King Crimson) as the saxophonist here. Or maybe it brings on one of the solo albums of Yes’ Jon Anderson; it is, after all, quite lighthearted.

For over 80 years a favorite of Seaside visitors. 51 oceanfront condos, individually owned and decorated. Suites for couples, small apartments with fireplaces and kitchenettes, one or two bed family units with fireplaces, kitchens and dining rooms. Oceanview cottages sleep anywhere from two to eight, w/ two bedrooms, some with lofts, fireplaces and kitchens. Heated outdoor pool, enormous grounds w/ picnic tables - all at quiet southern end of Seaside.

Lincoln City’s only resort hotel built right on the beach with all oceanfront rooms - nestled against a rugged cliffside overlooking a soft, sandy beach. Dine in penthouse restaurant and bar, for casual meal or candlelight dinner. An array of seafood specialties, juicy steaks and other Northwest favorites, including decadent Sunday buffet. Rooms range from bedrooms to studios to 1-bedroom suites with microwaves and refrigerators to full kitchens. Also, wi-fi, spa, saunas, exercise room and year-round heated swimming pool. Kids will love the game room and easy beach access. Full-service conference/meeting rooms for that inspirational retreat; extensive wedding possibilities.

The tune somewhat brings back those glory days of rock pomposity, when Crimson, Emerson, Lake & Palmer, and the non-crappy incarnation of Genesis mixed classical with rock. Not a bad musical lesson for kids these days, actually.

At one point, there are some extremely cute and interesting samples of vocalists utilized to sound like opera singers. They are gleefully esoteric in the best traditions of electronica. It all ends with bluesy touch in the middle of all the “stuffiness,” again evoking Sting’s mix of modern and classical through the use of that slinky sax.

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In “The Down Low,” our little musician tadpole bumps and grinds it with a group of rappers. Most Americans won’t recognize this analogy, but it sounds a bit like Russian rocker Boris Grebenchikov’s flirtations with rap. And it’s a serious kick in the pants, with Robinson’s rapping gracing the tune.

In the background there’s some kind’a sexy girl vocals - but that’s something only dads will probably lock into. Most delightful, however, is the use of frog samples to make the song gurgle, hop and chug along, all punctuated by some monster grooves and a fiery electronic brass section performed by Pelletier.

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Condo-hotel that offers the amenities of a fine hotel, but also includes ownership of a vacation home on the north Oregon coast. It is a unique opportunity, as condo owners have an opportunity to share in the revenues of their unit. All have either spectacular, nearly aerial views of the ocean and city, or they gaze out at the lush forests of the coast range mountains. There are private balconies in all rooms, which come as studios or units with one bedroom or two - as large as 850 square feet. Each is fully furnished. $189,000 to $449,000, (with most in the $300,000 range.) When owners are not using their units, they may be rented out as hotel rooms, and owners may share in those revenues.

Undoubtedly the most memorable tune is “Alone,” where north Oregon coast singer Heather Christie gets to shine bright. It’s a mournful, touching acoustic number that is sure to sear itself into your brain, with a vibe not unlike Pink Floyd or Sarah McLachlan. Christie’s voice certainly evokes her in plenty of moments. If one of these were going to cross over into the world of hit singles, this would be it.

The fun and funky “Frogtown” slides things into the end of the CD, with its bouncy, upbeat form of Frog-rock. Andy Stokes’ soulful vocals evoke Marvin Gaye a bit, while the tune imaginatively blends elements of all the other styles at various moments.

The two hidden tracks at the end of the CD are also a serious source of enchantment and coolness.

With its dynamic, even stunning illustrations and a hip, gleeful soundtrack and narration to accompany it, “One Night in Frogtown” is a multi-media tour de force for kids and grownups. It’s something the entire family can rock out to.

Find more at www.frogtowncentral.com

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Free, fresh baked cookie upon check-in is just the start. All rooms beachfront and up against Lincoln City's most famous stretch of beach: the D River. Each room comes as a suite or mini-suite, and has a kitchen and balcony or patio. Some w/ gas fireplaces, while all have a DVD Players; movies to rent come with free popcorn. Heated indoor pool, a spa, and this fabulous beach is lit at night. Rooms sleep from two, four to six - including a deluxe fireplace suite. Gift certificates orspecial occasion packages
20 gorgeous homes sleep up to 18; doubled that with some side-by-side homes. Some pet friendly. Cottages to massive homes; new oceanfront to renovated historic beach houses. All over central coast w/ Lincoln City, Otter Rock, Boiler Bay and Nye Beach. Long list of features, including barbecues, large decks, antique furnishings, wood stoves, gas fireplaces, hardwood floors, Jacuzzis and hot tubs. Most have movies, music, books. Gift basket w/ goodies in each

A1 Beach Rentals, Lincoln City. Perfect for large family vacations all the way down to a getaway lodging for two - with over 25 vacation rental homes to choose from. A breathtaking collection of craftsman or traditional beachfront homes, or oceanview houses – from one to seven bedrooms. In various areas of Lincoln City and overlooking the beach, with some in Depoe Bay. All kinds of amenities are available, like hot tubs, decks, BBQ, rock fireplaces, beamed ceilings and more. Some are new, some are historic charmers. Lincoln City, Oregon. 1-(503)-232-5984. www.a1beachrentals.com.


D Sands Condominium Motel, Lincoln City. Free, fresh baked cookie upon check-in is just the start. All rooms beachfront and up against Lincoln City's most famous stretch of beach: the D River. Each room comes as a suite or mini-suite, and has a kitchen and balcony or patio. Some w/ gas fireplaces, while all have a DVD Players; movies to rent come with free popcorn. Heated indoor pool, a spa, and this fabulous beach is lit at night. Rooms sleep from two, four to six - including a deluxe fireplace suite. Gift certificates orspecial occasion packages. www.dsandsmotel.com. 171 S.W. Highway 101. 800-527-3925.


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Literally over 100 homes available as vacation rentals – all distinctive and carefully selected to be special. Find them in Yachats, Waldport, Newport, Nye Beach, Otter Rock, Depoe Bay, Gleneden Beach, Lincoln Beach, Lincoln City, Neskowin, Pacific City, Tierra Del Mar and Rockaway Beach. Some pet friendly.

Arch Cape Property Services. Dozens of homes in that dreamy, rugged stretch between Cannon Beach and Manzanita known as Arch Cape. Oceanfront and ocean view , or just a short walk from the sea.
All homes are immaculate and smoke free; some pet friendly (with a fee). Some with broadband, indoor or outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, decks, and fire pits or barbecues. Call about tempting winter specials that go until March (not valid holidays, however). www.archcaperentals.com 866-436-1607.


STARFISH POINT Newport - Offers only the finest in luxury condominium lodging. Every unit is focused on the beauty of the sea and the beach.
All units boast two bedrooms, two bathrooms, designer kitchens, wireless broadband Internet, fireplaces, Jacuzzi’s and private decks. Friendly staff dedicated to high quality and superb customer service. 140 NW 48th Street, Newport. (541) 265-3751. (800) 870-7795. www.starfishpoint.com


Lincoln City Vacation Homes Something for everyone: smaller homes with a view to a large house that sleeps 15. All are either oceanfront or just a few steps away – all with a low bank access and fantastic views. Most are in the Nelscott area; one is close to the casino. You’ll find a variety of goodies: fireplaces, multiple bedrooms, dishwashers, Jacuzzis, washer/dryers, hot tubs, cable TV, VCR, barbecues; there’s a loft in one, and another sprawling home has two apartments. Pets allowed in some homes – ask first. Each comes with complete kitchens. Most have seventh night free. Prices range from winter $85 to summer $230 per night. www.getaway2thecoast.com. 541-994-8778.


Inn at Cannon Beach. Beautifully wooded natural setting at quiet south end of Cannon Beach. Great during winter storms with a new book by the fireplace – or when the sun is out for family fun and beach strolling. Handsome beach cottage-style architecture. Lush flowering gardens and naturalized courtyard pond. Warm, inviting guest rooms. Continental buffet breakfast. Warm Cookies. Family and Pet Friendly. Welcome gifts. Smoke-free. Complimentary Wireless Connectivity. Wine and book signing events. 800-321-6304 or 503-436-9085. Hemlock At Surfcrest, Cannon Beach, Oregon. www.atcannonbeach.com.

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Newly renovated, 30 upscale rooms, on north end of Lincoln City, close to everything. Spa-like feeling, w/ luxury linens & robes, pillow top mattresses, flat screen TV's, granite counters and more all add to pampering. Oceanfront and ocean view units w/ gas fireplace. Hot Tub units. Romance packages. Luxury Room for every budget: meeting and wedding spaces too. Click here for video of Dec. storm aftermath

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17 lavish, beachfront suites feature Jacuzzi or outdoor hot tub, gas fireplace, luxury robes & linens, TV, two-headed showers. Three large suites have kitchens. Private deck w/ BBQ available. No smoking or pets. Perfect for romantic getaway, honeymoon.

 

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