Looking for music the whole family can enjoy? Check out Austin, Tx’s The Hoots. Kids will love to hear the adventures of Harv the Hippo and the buzzing Bumble Bee, while parents will tap their feet to the catchy tunes.

The Hoots featuring Joel, Charles, and Cozy have been playing music together for years in various rock music bands. Their experience and musicianship is evident. The Hoots music is rooted in folk, American and rock, with catchy hooks and sing-a-long choruses.

Why did the band decide to play children’s music? “It started with the birth of my friends twins in 2006,” Joel said. “A friend suggested I write a song as a gift.” With no experience in playing this style, Joel felt some trepidation. But after writing a few songs and receiving positive feedback, he kept at it and realized he enjoyed it.

Playing live for kids was a new experience. “There is a lot more interaction with the audience which is freeing,” Joel said. “I never anticipated doing the Hokey Pokey at a show when I started performing.”

The Hoots play songs that are fun and silly, like “King of Ketchup,” while others contain a positive message; “Oh Oh” is about trying new things, “Cowboys” is about following your dreams and “Cool Things” encourages kids to embrace being small.

While aimed at children, the imaginative spirit of these songs should appeal to people of all ages. “My grandparents love them,” Joel said. “And I have even seen a few of my hipster friends smile when they hear a song, so maybe it’s universal.”

-Landon Christensen