Essentially, the fare is mood music, as in go-to-sleep lullabies, utilizing the Hawaiian nose flute, dancing wave sounds, a drizzle of Hawaiian rain and even a heartbeat or two. A few classical selections are included, too, with deliberately calming music-box motifs — renderings of soothing melodies that are akin to the soundscape you might find in a mind-calming, soul-relaxing therapy session.

From the classic "Brahms Lullaby" to "Pupu Hinu Hinu," there's a definite emphasis on quiet eloquence. The Island spirit might be presumed on such local faves as "E Mama E" and "God Bless My Daddy," not commonly perceived as sleeping tunes, but with a gently coaxing aura. For kids, there's "Hush Little Baby," "Rock a Bye Baby," "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and "Hush Little Baby." If you're in a ki ho'alu spirit, "Slack Key by the Sea" is the one to seek out. Among the 16 tracks, you're apt to like one for beddy-bye time on your iPod. Seriously.

Bonus: The 12-page foldout liner lists 600 baby names — kane and wahine, English and Hawaiian — for your examination and enlightenment.

This entry celebrates Hawaiian language, history and beliefs in a series of mele, many composed by Kia. Some, like "Welina Mai," "Pua Lomilomi" and "Kahili Na'i," are delivered in Hawaiian; others, like "I Love It Whenever" and "Papa (Mother Earth)," are in English.

One gem he didn't write (Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett did) is "Naupaka," about the blossom commonly immortalized in Island hula; another (also by Hewett) is "Kikau," with an underlying spiritual conduit.

Michael Keala Ching is also a valuable contributor; you need only listen to "Pae Moku" to savor his connections with Hawaiian traditions.

Standard is a composer, singer and guitarist who wrote or co-wrote all 17 tracks, some with peripheral Island links ("Tropical Drinks," "Surfing the Gutter"). You may have encountered his artistry in such markets as Detroit and Los Angeles before his retirement on Kaua'i six years ago. Clearly, this is a labor of love — and a sampling of his extended musical 'ohana. Provided lyrics shed light on each tune.