Little Miss Ann (Ann Torralba)

The lowdown: A folk rocker with tasty influences: Rickie Lee Jones,
Joanna Newsom, Pink Floyd ("early Pink Floyd," she stresses) and The
Beatles.

Not kidding: As mom to 5-year-old Olivia, Little Miss Ann has
truesidewalk-chalk cred. She started singing to Olivia's play group four years
ago; prior, she played Empty Bottle and Schubas in the quirk-folk outfit
Jank. Her former day gig? Working with autistic public school kids.

Why we like her: On her CD "Music for Tots," Torralba brings tender
invention to chestnuts such as "Pirate Ship"; the original "Moon Jelly"
oozes toy xylophone zing. She uses Olivia on backup vocals and husband
Patrick Milani on drums. Plus, she hopes to be a role model for female
and Philippine-American artists.

Next gig: Noon April 29 at the Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave. $5
(includes hot dog or pizza slice and juice box); 773-281-4444.

Info: www.myspace.com/littlemissann100

Grade: B+. By picking up a guitar and playing children's music, Little
Miss Ann redefines "supermom."