Warmth and tenderness are key components in the piano music of Stanton Lanier. Both of those traits come through crystal clear on his first holiday offering, DECEMBER PEACE. The album features piano renditions of classic spiritual songs of the season performed in slow, haunting arrangements that accent the melodies of each song. In many ways, Lanier's piano playing is reminiscent of George Winston, in that his arrangements are serene with a touch of improvisation that sets them apart from the crowd.
The album features a very light layer of backing instrumentation from Jeff Oster (flugelhorn), Will Ackerman (drums), Eugene Friesen (cello), Jill Haley (English Horn) and Noah Wilding (vocals). Lanier's piano is by far the dominant instrument however, with the other instrumentation being worked into the background so well that you almost don't realize they are there.
Includes several original compositions and renditions of "Coventry Carol," "Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring" and others. DECEMBER PEACE was named "Best Holiday Album" award by Zone Music Reporter.
Track Preview 1. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiri
Track Preview 2. Away In A Manger
Track Preview 3. In The Bleak Midwinter
Track Preview 4. Angels We Have Heard On H
Track Preview 5. O Come, O Come Emmanuel
Track Preview 6. Shepherds And Stars
Track Preview 7. Silent Night
Track Preview 8. Thanksgiving
Track Preview 9. Coventry Carol
Track Preview 10. Awaken The Dawn
Track Preview 11. Lo, How A Rose E'er Bloom
Track Preview 12. Snow Angel
Track Preview 13. Little Drummer Boy
Track Preview 14. Silence
Track Preview 15. Peace