Jack's Big Music Show: Let's Rock!

Puppets Jack, Mary, and drummer dog Mel play instruments and sing in the title character's backyard musical playhouse in this four-episode compilation. The jewel in the flimsy crown of this set from the Nickelodeon and Noggin-aired series is the opening episode, “Groundhog Day,” which features Jon Stewart as an annoying newscaster who shadows Gertrude, a super-shy groundhog who can't seem to muster up the courage to do her job on February 2 and looks to Jack and Mary for inspiration. The episode “Jack & the Beanstalk” finds the trio turning three beans into a magical stalk, which they climb and then help a friendly giant write a special song for his wife's birthday. Also including the episodes “Little Bad Wolf” and “How Mel Got His Groove Back,” the best aspect of this series is the assortment of music videos, featuring artists such as The Laurie Berkner Band (“Space Ship”), former Blue's Clues host Steve Burns and Flaming Lips drummer Steven Drozd (“I Hog the Ground”), and—my definite favorite—a tune from David Pleasant's RiddimAthon singing/dancing/clapping ensemble. DVD extras include additional music videos. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)