Swing Around the World

Twelve swing tunes for the whole family from around the world.

Artist: Various Artists
Genre: Children's Music Label: Putumayo World Music Parental Advisory: No Edited Version Available: No Release Date: 07/26/2005

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that SWING AROUND THE WORLD features twelve songs from South Africa, Mauritius, United States, Italy, and France. Many of the songs are in their native language and contain political messages, but that doesn't detract from the appealing rhythm of swing.

The whole family can enjoy these musically sophisticated renditions by accomplished musicians.

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Christine Walker and Dennis Hysom

The first song in SWING AROUND THE WORLD is "I Van Enkulu" by The Cool Crooners of Bulawayo. Drums and guitars introduce this richly complex blending of men's voices from Zimbabwe. The song, performed in an African dialect, tells the true tale of people meeting in unlicensed beer halls to discuss politics and plan acts of resistance against British oppression. The police come to arrest the people and take them away in a big van, but the people escape. The light, happy track belies the serious nature of the lyrics beautifully sung by the Crooners. "Mari Nica Swing" by Triton is also in a native dialect, except the chorus which goes "Swing, swing, swing." Guitars, harmonica, and a marvelous lead singer make this a stand-out.

Jazz violinist Stephane Grapelli performs with The Squirrel Nut Zippers from North Carolina on "Pallin With Al." Other highlights include the mesmerizing "Fotoromanza" by Alfredo Rey e la sua Orchestra, "Mamma Mi Piace il Ritmo" by Renzo Arbore e I Suoi Swing Maniacs with lyrics translated as "Oh mama, mama/ I don't want to study/ The rhythm makes me happy/ And I would like to sing all day long/ With seven notes/ Do Re Mi Fa Sol La Ti Do", and "Gypsy Fire" by Romane with its smokin' guitar solos.

There's not a bad song in this collection. Young children won't understand the lyrics, but they'll respond to the irresistible rhythms. Because of the various languages, families may not be singing together, but they most certainly will swing together.

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