It’s a simple idea: have great contemporary musicians interpret traditional songs such as lullabies, Mother Goose songs, and folk classics that appeal to both children and adults. Instead of relying on saccharine and strings, rely on soul and talent.

That’s just what an impressive constellation of Twin Cities music stars have done on Down by the Riverside: an album to benefit the music therapy program at Reuben Lindh Family Services, a multicultural provider of pre-schools, daycare, parenting programs, and therapies for some of Minneapolis’ most challenged families.