Top Picks: SiriusXM's 'The Loft,' Maggie Smith on 'Downton Abbey,' and more
Time for Kids' new book shows kids how to solve science mysteries, Karimba's new CD makes listeners want to get up and dance, Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic musical 'Phantom of the Opera' records a performance for its anniversary, and more top picks.
Solving science mysteries
What makes soda bubbly? Can a battery turn a nail into a magnet? How can water bend light? Time For Kids' new Big Book of Science Experiments tackles these and about 100 other everyday mysteries, geared toward kids ages 8 to 12. The book offers step-by-step directions so junior scientists can get their hands dirty with minimal adult supervision – and without a huge kitchen cleanup afterward.
Downton's dowager
Since the British series "Downton Abbey" premièred, critics and audiences agree that grand dame of acting Maggie Smith runs away with every scene she's in as Violet, the sharp-tongued dowager countess who clings to old ways. So it's only fitting that Georgia Public Broadcasting compiled a video of 10 great quotes from Smith from the first season of the show, including the dowager countess's thoughts on weekends, friendship, and swivel chairs. It can be seen at: youtube.com/watch?v=TVMtffzbAwk
Get up and dance
Karimba, the third full-length release from Peruvian band Novalima, masterfully blends Afro-Peruvian music, dub, and electronica. Combining deep dance-floor techno grooves with ecstatic percussion, call-and-response vocals, and tight horn arrangements, the 12 tracks take listeners on a nonstop propulsive ride. If this doesn't make you want to get up and dance, you might want to check your pulse!
Music of the night
