The prolific Wiggles are back with a new CD full of the bubbly, danceable songs that have made them international superstars. Top of the Tots doesn't have a strong overall theme like some of the earlier CDs, but instead tells a series of mini stories about various professions, travel, and different things to do for fun. The songs take children for a ride in an airplane, visit Central Park in New York City, go for a trip to the Wild West of the US, go swimming, visit the doctor, dentist, walk on the moon, picking flowers, and making bread. As usual, each song is prefaced with an explanatory introduction that situates the action, and invites participation. Although the songs do include sound effects for each different place like cowbells, or horns, the overall sound is a kind of rockin 60s Austin Power feel, with Jeff's organ forming the backdrop.

The NY Firefighter's song is dedicated to the families of the Sept 11th firefighters (and they apparently feature in the video clip). Existing Wiggles fans will enjoy the usual in-jokes about Jeff's sleepiness and Anthony's love of food, plus the hijinks of Captain Feathersword and characters Dorothy, Wags and Henry. For those new to the boys in primary skivvies, the simplicity of the included lyrics, and the relaxed intimacy will encourage instant familiarity. The CD is a positive upbeat one which focuses on kindness, sharing, healthy food, good hygiene, and will teach children about new places and experiences. It will also encourage copycat make believe as children use their imagination to conjure gardens, swimming pools, or pretend to be astronomers, bricklayers, fire fighters, doctors, and dentists.

The Wiggles' music is definitely pitched at younger audiences - as the title indicates - toddlers primarily. Older preschoolers might find this a little babyish for them. For kids 1-4, this is a fun CD which will help encourage a love of music and spawn plenty of games. The CD comes with a pack of Wiggles stickers and a PC video clip for Let's Go Swimming.

Top of the Tots, The Wiggles
ABC Music, Oct 2003

This review first appeared at Preschool Entertainment. It is reprinted here with permission.

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