The Smurfs - Smurfing Sing Song

All Music Guide

Most Smurf albums follow no story line, probably because musically Smurfs can't keep their mind on any one thing in particular other than dancing and having fun. "Smurfing Sing Song" comes close to telling a story, especially with its opening track "Smurfing Land" in which you have a biographical view of a wizard bringing the Smurfs into existence. Children will certainly get a feel for Smurf Land and parents will appreciate the real affection the collaborating artists have for their subjects. It is not all games and parties, though there are plenty here, but a real spark of imagination. In order to take the Smurfs to another level one has to really believe that they are more than a cartoon, that they have feelings and emotions and that somehow their lives are as uncertain and in danger as our own. Within and between the messages of having fun and freedom, the Smurfs acknowledge the harsh realities of city life ("Little Smurf Boat") and, in the brilliantly original "Merry Go Round," ex...plain the circle of creation and death with humility and compassion. With voices inspired by the Chipmunks but far more melancholy (even when announcing it's party time,) the Smurfs reel you in with true empathy for their world. - Peter Fawthrop, All Music Guide Read more Less