Howdytoon’s “Dinosaurs & Monsters”, a new album in the Dinostory series, explores more fantastic creatures real and imagined, including Pterosaurs (“I’m a Pterodactyl”), Synapsids (“Dimetrodon”, listen to the song to find out what a synapsid is), Pliosaurs (“Kronosaurus”) and even mythical monsters (“The Kraken!”). Featuring stellar musicianship, and diverse musical elements including elements of Rock, Reggae, Ska, Metal, South Indian Classical Music, it’s a musical feast for both kids and adults.
Evaluation comments:
“If you are a fan of dinosaurs or a fan of dinosaur rock (as in bands from the “prehistoric” pre-streaming era like Rush or the Who), then you will be digging this album. The first three tracks, “Allosaurus,” “Dimetrodon,” and “Brachiosaurus” get the album off to a roaring, heavy rocking start. The volume is toned down some during the middle three songs. “Brontosaurus” moves to a ska groove while “Diplodocus” (not to be confused with the modern-day DJ/producer Diplo) leans more into a reggae. “Stegosaurus” holds a gentle, pastoral vibe, quite suitable for that plant-eater. A Pete Townshend-like guitar riff kicks off “I’m A Pterodactyl” as the album cranks up the amps again for its final three tunes. “Kraken” (the main “monster” of this nine-song set) and “Kronosaurus” are both thunderous hard rockers. Parents should note that these songs feature lyrics that might be too intense for little dino fans. “Kronosaurus” discusses hunting for prey while “I’m a Kraken crushing your spine” is a line in “Kraken”. That said, there is a lot of info on dinosaurs and monsters inventively woven into the lyrics. Did you know Pterodactyls aren’t dinosaurs because they can’t fly? Okay, maybe you did; however, this album (created by Mike Whitla, a man behind Dinostory series) is certainly worth knowing about.”