friends since high school, john flansburgh and john linnell, better known as they might be giants are the unequivocal, indisputable champions of geek-rock.  since beginning their musical journey 25 years ago by playing in clubs around brooklyn, or advertising their phone number in magazines and recording songs on their answering machine (known as "dial a song"), they have recorded some of the most enjoyable/educational/entertaining music i know.  among their numerous hits, i'm sure you've heard their singles "bird house in your soul" and "boss of me", the theme song from the tv show malcolm in the middle.

on february 05, tmbg released their 12th studio and third children's album: here come the 123's.  this album is intended to accompany their now legendary (at least in my eyes) 2005 record, here come the abc's. these catchy albums obviously appeal to the WEDNESDAY preschool set, but really are enjoyable to anyone of any age.  in fact, the last tmbg show i attended opened with the song "alphabet of nations", a really fun track i felt compelled to  memorize.  when you hear it, you will immediately understand why.

although we have to wait until 2040 for the big they might be giants world tour, the band does tour extensively throughout north america and europe.  actually, they just started a 21 date run in the us.  cities include: cleveland, austin, st. petersburg and atlanta, among others.  if you are able, please go to their show!  you will not be disappointed.  check out their full line-up of dates here.

don't forget, the album cover image on the upper right of the screen links to sample songs, the band's image on the lower right links to their website.

as always, please buy this album at your local independent music store and not from retailers like wal-mart (soulless global homogenizers) or i-tunes (albums should be listened to as an entire composition with album cover and liner notes in hand).  also check out the "support" links on the bottom of the page as they are regularly updated.

click here to visit the COMMUNICATION page to join the mailing list, the street team, and/or recommend future albums of the week.