Soothing Sounds for Baby, Vol. 2: 6 to 12 Months

Liner Note Author: Irwin Chusid.
Author: Chris Athens.
Photographer: Antien Grijseels.
Raymond Scott's work is known today primarily because of the groundbreaking and friendly music that he recorded in the '30s and '40s. Due to a resurgence of interest in Scott during the '90s, many more facets of his work have again become widely available. Recorded around 1962, the pioneering electronic music on this set was originally part of a three-volume series released in conjunction with the Gesell Institute of Child Development. This second volume is intended for infants from six to 12 months of age.
The album consists of three long pieces, each titled in a manner that describes its musical character. While the first volume in the series focuses primarily on calming lullabies, and is seasoned with just a dash of playful surprise, this set is much more varied. Repetition is a key component, with rhythmic beds supporting movement on top. Far from being just for babies, this music can now be seen as a forerunner to Brian Eno's work, specifically his ambient compositions.