See more music reviews

Dreamland (by Various Artists, World music)

common sense media says

World's lullabies bring slumber to little ones.

parents & educators say
See 1 review | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this album of lullabies is sung in various languages and is a model for understanding and diversity. Extensive liner notes detail the performers' backgrounds and the songs' origins.

Positive messages: This entire project is a celebration of diversity and connectedness.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Dreamland

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how lullabies help you relax -- and even fall asleep. It's also a good opportunity to discuss that the world hosts many other cultures -- which have differences yet share similarities with our lives.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Putumayo World Music has assembled a winning collection of pleasing night songs from around the globe on DREAMLAND. For example, accompanied by his gently strummed nylon-string guitar, Erick Manana sings a sentimental tribute to his mother in his native Malagasy. In translation: "You are my shelter from the rain / You are my anchor in life's ocean / I'll always need your love and compassion." Carlos Santana adds his signature guitar stylings in support of Angelique Kidjo's heavenly dream song, "Naima." Basic tradition sometimes trumps digital reality: Echoey new age ambience and atmospheric forest and ocean sound effects detract from the melodies on Lynn Morrison's "Cradle Spell of Dunvegan," and Teresa Doyle's "A Lullabye." In contrast, the stark beauty of Tanja Solnik's captivating "Numi Numi" is rendered with just voice and acoustic guitar.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Mostly traditional, the lullabies on "Dreamland are from Africa, Europe, North and South America, and Asia -- and they all enjoy modern production and performance values. Whether you're putting a little one to bed, or simply trying to unwind after your workday, the songs relax and soothe children of all ages. The musical performances are stellar throughout, making this one CD that will yield repeated family listening pleasure.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: May 20, 2003
Label: Putumayo World Music
Genre: World music
This review was written by John Graham
 
 

Review It

 

Review Dreamland

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

zanzylum
adult
 
very beautiful
Everyone in my family loves this CD... It is great good night time music to sooth my daughter to sleep (she is 15 months), but teh whole family loves the music... not just for kids and not just for sooth down nap or bed time.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (2) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you add Dreamland to your playlist?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already listened to it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more music
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines