Monster Suit

PreS-Gr 1—Portland, Oregon-based independent musician Mo Phillips grabs listeners and just doesn't let go on his third CD for kids. Each tune has a cool, mature sound that will also appeal to parents. From the syncopated opening number full of action and activity ("Toes"), Phillips and his backup band hit a driving rock beat as he fantasizes about the "Worst Party Ever Thrown," mixes up tempos in "Bed Head," and reassures that all is fine in the acoustic "All Okay." Other standouts include "Twirling" (a song about things that twirl like ballerinas, tornados, cyclones, and princesses), "Hot Lava" (encourages listeners to stay put and read), and "Droolin'" (about all the things toddlers put in their mouths). These 14 original rocking tunes are well-performed and have excellent arrangements and clever lyrics. Great fun!—Stephanie Bange, Wright State University, Dayton, OH