Publisher's Weekly

April 10, 2000

Madsen has long been performing inventive music as co-founder of the a cappella group The Bobs. On this, his first recording for children, he demonstrates, not only a warm, clear singing voice, but a knack for writing entertaining songs that combine kookiness and wit. Dinosaurs and chickens rule here, with each species starring in its own two songs. In "Born to Chew (We Eat Meat)" boastful carnivores sing about the need to "gnaw on some meat" and "The Dinosaur Song," a peppy tune, relays fun facts about stegosaurus, pterodactyl and other prehistoric beasts. The title track introduces a farmer who has "a hen that wouldn't cackle/Oh no, oh no," and includes lots of enthusiastic quacks, squeaks, yaks and yuks for effect. And in the very silly "Chicken Road," kids will hear about a place where chickens abound. The catchiest song, "Summertime is Here," sets the tone for breezy fun, and "Tiny Mosquito" and "Selling Lemonade" keep the warm weather, feel-good theme running. Whether he's singing a gentle, folksy number or letting loose with some raucous animal sounds, Madsen keeps listeners tuned in. All ages.