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04 April 2004
Various Artists, African Playground (Putumayo)
If five-year-old white kids are any indication, namely Julian, Thomas and Julia, then this Afropop compilation for kids will surely be hit. The three I mentioned wouldn't stop dancing to the thirteen upbeat songs from countries such as South Africa, Senegal, Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Congo and Madagascar. "Again, again!" they shouted, bouncing from couch to floor to couch again. I don't know, maybe it was the Dunkin Donuts I wasn't supposed to give them. Anyway, truth is you don't have to be a kid to enjoy this lovely collection. Mostly sung in native languages, though a few are also in English, these songs are fun and energetic. They are often traditional arrangements of the many diverse musical styles that have been born from the African continent. Well known artists such as the Mahotella Queens and Angelique Kidjo mix it up with lesser known though equally gifted talents. Really, any age will enjoy for, unless you speak the languages sung, you'll be just like a child trying to get a grip on the silly sounding words that comprise what we call language. A nice booklet comes with the CD, translating all the songs into English, promising to help your youngin' (or, admit it, you) become that multi-linguist you always imagined.
— Matt Rogers
.: posted by Editor 9:42 AM
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