Todd McHatton and C.J. Pizarro (AKA Mista Cookie Jar) are not necessarily the first names that come to mind when you think of natural duet partners, but neither were peanut butter and chocolate, when you think about it, and look how popular that combo is now.
Could it happen for Todd and Cookie? Could they get some significant placement in a Steven Spielberg movie? OK, that's doubtful., but I could see the Los Angeles duo picking up a few fans with their slightly-oxymoronically titled debut EP Epic 3 Song Starter Pack. I would say that the songs are more MCJ's hyperactive melting pot of musical styles than McHatton's '70s orchestral pop, more Cookie than Todd. "All These Magical Things" is a swirly AutoTuned pop gem, the album's best, with "HotchToozZee" more crazy, and "You're My Bestest Bro" more mellow.
This is kids' music, but not necessarily kids' tunes. The album's most appropriate for kids ages 4 through 8. You can hear the album on Spotify, or stream right here. Those looking for the measured AM radio pop of McHatton's Underbirds project with Morgan Taylor might not necessarily dig, but if your family needs some mashed-up kid-friendly songs from the 22nd century, dig in. Recommended.
Note: I was given a copy for possible review.
[Bonus: Here's the first episode of "Todd and Cookie's Catapult of Destiny," "The World of Rock." It actually makes the EP sound kind of tame.]
