Carnival of sound

Kindie rock band Recess Monkey has stuffed its latest album, “In Tents,” with songs inspired by the circus. The CD is recommended for kids ages 3–8, but the whole family will enjoy these songs, some of which are reminiscent of the great ringmasters of the pop arena (Elvis Costello, Squeeze, The Beatles, Bee Gees) and all are about perennial childhood delights, like “Bouncy House,” “Human Cannonball,” and “Lemonade.”

It includes a 32-page booklet that tells a tale about a band tricked into joining the circus.

This is Recess Monkey’s eighth studio album, so it’s no surprise that the band — Jack Forman, Daron Henry, and Drew Holloway, joined on this CD by Dean Jones — have perfected the art of clowning around.

“In Tents” CD by Recess Monkey (Monkey Mama), $14.99. Release date: June 19, 2012. www.recessmonkey.com.