Instrumental Dreamland is the latest release in the award-winning Dreamland series from Putumayo Kids, the children’s division of the prolific world music imprint known for its thematic compilations. The collection of instrumental bedtime music from around the globe is the first in the series to feature all instrumental music, something that parents have long requested, according to the label.

The 11 tracks on the CD include some familiar tunes (Damien Erwin’s delicate “What a Wonderful World,” pianist Michael Allen Harrison’s richly textured “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”), as well as more exotic selections from Mali (griot and kora master Balla Tounkara’s “Kouyate”), Brazil (“O Filho Que Eu Quero Ter,” by guitarist Reginald Frazatto Jr.), and Japan (Masahiro Nitta’s “Komoriuta (Lullaby),” which sounds a bit like a meditative passage from a kung fu flick). There are two tracks from Hawaii and one from Ireland, as well.

The effect of the tunes is indeed relaxing, and the tone is consistent enough that there are no jarring transitions between songs. Rather than lush orchestral arrangements, most of the songs rely on solo stringed instruments to pick out the melodies, perhaps with a gentle accompanying rhythm track. The lack of variety is a plus for lulling little ones to dreamland, but it is unfortunate that the entries do not exhibit more of the musical character of their countries of origin.

To help lull your li’l ones to sleep, we’re giving away two copies of Instrumental Dreamland! Leave a comment about the funniest position or situation where your child has fallen asleep — upside down on the couch, in a bowl of cereal, on the stairs? We’ll pick our favorite two!