In Stillness: Lullabies and Meditations for All Ages

PreS-Gr 1—Siegell composed these 10 original lullabies to help her child get to sleep at night. The comforting topics, beautiful melodies, slow tempos, and smooth arrangements worked their magic for her; she hopes they will do the same for others. The musical styles flow smoothly from jazz to blues to New Age to folk. In the opening song, a piano, bass, and drums support Siegell's crisp soprano vocals in "Drip Drop Ripple," a jazzy description of the water cycle. In contrast, a guitar, dobro, and violin accompany her mournful, bluesy "Almost Home," about the long journey home to bed. An angelic harp pushes forward "I Was Once," a folksy tune of a mother's love. A marimba opens "Baby Blue" in which she describes what fun it is to play games with parents. The hypnotic vocals and repetitive lyrics of "Deep in the Depths" will help listeners relax. The album closes with the title song, "In Stillness," a ballad that prepares listeners for peace and sleep. While this recording is not a wise choice to listen to while driving in the car, as its relaxing, laid-back lyrics and tempos will make you drowsy, it is perfect prep for a nap or bedtime.—Stephanie Bange, Wright State University, Dayton, OH