I rarely write reviews for solo piano CDs, but this one is special. I can wholeheartedly say that Travels, the new album by Doug Hammer, sounds beautiful and sometimes even superb. The variety of styles is impressive, each of the 39 tracks possessing its own characters, space and moods. Under his fingers, the piano became an instrument of emotional colors, poetry and countless nuances, intimate yet ready to explode and be heroic. The elegant musical discourse develops with lofty amplitude, and sensitively graded ups and downs, sometimes whispering the tones with lyric delicacy, other times reaching dramatic peaks through passionate timbres.  This is a wonderful engaging album, full of options for a great listening experience. Its wide range of melodic and rhythmic approaches unfolds a rare tapestry of virtuosity and delight. --(Marius-Christian Burcea - RFI Romania)