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What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Kathi Kamen Goldmark

It's very French, it's very delightful, it's danceable and singable, and as with most Putumayo Kids CDs, it knows enough not to condescend. Highlights of the FRENCH PLAYGROUND album are the fabulously catchy "Clic-Clac Oh C'est Beau!" by Dominique Dimey, and the very funny "Bonjour Bonjour" by L'Autobus A Vapeur -- but all the songs are fun and lighthearted, yet musically sophisticated enough not to bore parents. Help your kids practice their French -- and/or mouth trumpet -- on "Monsieur Bibendum" by Tryo. Dance around the living room to "L'ile Maurice" by Tryo or the amazingly catchy and innocently sensual "Sensation (Bidi Bom Bom)" by Lole-Lolay.

Is It Any Good?

5

All of the tracks are beautifully performed and lovingly produced, the mixes near perfect, the lyrics in the liner notes provided in both French and English. From the beautiful guitar and accordion work on "Sensation" to the comic expressiveness of "Croque" by Thomas Ferson, each song is different, but spiced with joie de vivre. As usual, Putumayo has come up with a winning combination for all ages.

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