Zoom a Little Zoom includes 10 new interpretations of tunes from Ballads for the Age of Science, a classic 1961 collection of educational science songs on such subjects as space, nature, weather, and energy, and an Activity Guide featuring dozens of ideas for hands-on science fun, the album is intended to excite a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.
The original songs, written by lyricist Hy Zaret and composer Lou Singer, and performed by Dorothy Collins, Tom Glazer and other artists, appeared on the 1961 space race era album Ballads for the Age of Science. Academy Award nominee Zaret (1907 -2007) is renowned for writing the timeless hits “Unchained Melody,” “One Meatball” and “Dedicated to You.” He also wrote dozens of socially conscious songs for his public service albums, Little Songs on Big Subjects and Little Songs About U.N.
“The science in the originals remains sound, not to mention the wonderful lyrics and melodies, 57 years after the original release,” says Cathy Fink. “Marcy and I are delighted to take a new approach to this material.” Marcy Marxer adds, “We’ve brought some exciting genre treatments to a number of the songs, including western swing, Klezmer and boogie-woogie, and I believe that while the kids are moving and grooving to the songs, a little science may just seep in.”