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What’s the Story?

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 standout.

Is It Any Good?

4

Among the many highlights are the mesmerizing "Fotoromanza" by Alfredo Rey e la sua Orchestra, Jazz violinist Stephane Grapelli performing with the Squirrel Nut Zippers from North Carolina on "Pallin With Al," 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.

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