Patricia Hammond

Description

“A music-box of vintage treasures sung by a remarkable woman” – Sir Michael Parkinson.

A glorious compilation of nostalgic songs; evergreens that are still enjoyed by young and old, Our Lovely Day brings to life the sounds of a cherished era. Despite the continuing popularity of such numbers as Smilin’ Through, Come to the Fair, and the criminally catchy Nice Cup of Tea, many of these gems haven’t been recorded in several decades. Others, such as Love’s Old Sweet Song and We’ll Gather Lilacs, are almost standards. “It’s a distillation of my favourites and the favourites of the many people I’ve sung to,” says Patricia. “It’s wonderful when these two things go together!” A mixture of songs from Patricia’s childhood, her ongoing sheet music collection, and audience requests, this CD presents 13 specially-commissioned arrangements, using two exciting young talents, Matt Redman and Nick Ball, who also provide 16 of the 31 instruments used on the album. Drink To Me Only and I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls use a simple harp accompaniment, three songs are for piano and voice, and the rest range from a small early jazz ensemble including spoons, banjo and violin, to a lavish assortment of orchestral sounds. DO click on the tiny little “play” squares below to hear some of the tracks.