World Music for Little Ears

1	Pro Nene Nanar / Geraldo Leite 3:03
2	Thula Thula / NtombKhona Diamini 3:11
3	Suo Gan / Tudor Morgan 3:16
4	Berceuse (Drume Negrito) / Ricardo Cobo 3:50
5	Soneca / Mônica Salmaso 4:17
6	Sigalagala / Anindo 3:54
7	Mi Gysgi Di 'Maban / Plethyn 3:03
8	El Negrito Com (The Little Black Boy Was Eating) /Al Nino le Gusta el Son / Xiomara Laugart 4:43
9	Murucututu / Magda Pucci 3:09
10	Diyor / Abou Sylla 3:46
11	Mullach A' Tsi / Garry O Brianin 3:33
12	Ay Turulete / Nelie Lebrón Robles 2:40
13	Dorme / Arnaldo Anturnes 3:47
14	Chitsidzo / Stella Chiweshe 3:07
15	Taladh / Margo Carruthers 4:52
16	A Dormir / Pepe Castillo 3:46

Barnes & Noble

This charming compilation of 16 international children's songs is a delight from beginning to end. You'll hear a variety of soothing lullabies sung in the performers' native languages; these "go to sleep" tunes are usually accompanied only by the sweet sounds of the guitar. "Siglalagala," sung by Anindo with a jaunty Kenyan harp accompaniment, accurately pinpoints many a parent's situtation: Your crying gives me a headache, so lie down and go to sleep. "Mi Gysbi Di' Maban," by Plethyn, is a rich Welsh lullaby sung in a cappella four-part harmony. Sounds of a soothing brook, the chuckles of the Brazilian murucututu owl, and the hypnotic cadence of the vibraphone help lull little ones to an imaginary paradise. "Diyore" is a humorous lament from Guinea about some unfortunate soul left with a crying baby. Where's the mom? Where's the dad? What to do? This song is performed by Abou Sylla, accompanied by the perky rhythms of the balafon, which might charge your baby up to play a clapping game. Another, "Soneca," is a funny Brazilian counting song about Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Of course, little ones won't understand the lyrics, but most of the songs offer simple sing-along words and endearing melodies; thanks to the excellent recording standards (these are not field recordings), it's all a joy on the ears. Also included are songs (and one lovely guitar instrumental) from Cuba, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and the Hebrides. Check out the other albums in the series, too: African Lullaby, Latin Lullaby, Celtic Lullaby, and Brazilian Lullaby. Carol Wright

All Music Guide

World Music for Little Ears gathers lullabies from Ellipsis Arts' Lullaby Collection, including songs from Brazil, Latin America, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, and Africa. The liner notes include translations of the lyrics, emphasizing the universal nature of these charming goodnight melodies. Heather Phares