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Our Review

Lorraine and Bennett Hammond have long frequented the folk music circuit in New England, and their tremendous talents overflow in Peace on Earth, an excellent, elegant instrumental release that lets the guitar, harp, dulcimer, whistle, and flute sing the glories of holiday fare. The music is straightforward and traditional, and the rewards are rich.

Peace on Earth opens well with Lorraine Hammond's original Jig for Joy, a lively piece that meshes perfectly with the ancient carols that follow. The songs are classic, and the folk treatments provide that rustic edge that cast a wave of warm homeyness over the entire production. By the time I reached Noel Merrily on High (the second track!), my feet were tap-tap-tapping away. Some cuts are spritely and carefree, others are contemplative, and a few pulse with mystery and melancholy (Down in Yon Forest and Lullay My Liking fall in this last category). The overall blend is a wonderful balance of joy and reflection, a most appropriate mix for the holiday season.

Those who favor folk flavors in holiday instrumentals will likely swoon over the pleasures presented by Lorraine and Bennett Hammond on this fine album. Peace on Earth is a little piece of heaven for those who want to bask in the sweet glow that acoustic instruments can generate on a cold winter's night. Nice!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2006)

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From the liner notes:

Lorraine Hammond: Appalachian Dulcimer and Celtic Harp
Bennett Hammond: Acoustic Guitar
Sarah Bauhan: Whistle and Flute

Recorded by Steve Friedman at Melville Park Sound, Boston, MA
Produced by Ed Sweeney, Soundworks, Inc.
Front cover illustration by Bennett Hammond
Photo of Lorraine and Bennett by Liz Bartlett
Original release date 1994
CD design by Sarah Bauhan

Lorraine Hammond and Bennett Hammond

Peace on Earth

Artist link

Track List