Drop the Hammer

Commissioned by Artsreach, a charity that promotes cultural activity in rural communities, this original song is "a captivating ode to the history and traditions of quarrying around the Jurassic Coast." It was written by Robbie Sattin, arranged by Lucy Humphris, and recorded live at the Mowlem Theater in Swanage, with the band accompanied by singers from community choirs across Dorset. The video premiered on the Artsreach YouTube channel on 12 February 2024.
For more on the history of quarrying in Dorset and the role of shanties in that work, check out the Artsreach project page.
== Lyrics ==
As provided on the Artsreach webpage
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer
Knock 'em down and split the stone,
Million years and more it's lain,
To build our churches, streets and homes.
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer,
Heave 'em up and haul 'em in,
Ev'ry block a new reminder;
where we are and where we've been.
From the moorlands, coves and harbours,
Fashioned at the sea's command,
Walk the beaches, climb the cliff face,
Through the door and cross the sand.
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer,
Knock 'em down and split the stone,
Million years and more it's lain,
to build our churches, streets and homes.
Where'd you get that grand cathedral?
What a sight your mighty halls,
Took apart this sturdy coastline
for to build your city's walls.
Drive the Wedge and Drop the Hammer
Knock 'em down and split the stone,
Million years and more it's lain,
to build our churches, streets and homes.
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer,
Heave 'em up and haul 'em in,
Ev'ry block a new reminder;
where we are and where we've been.
Steady now! Hey!
Hit 'er back! Hey!
Drive 'er in! Hey!
Smash 'em! Hey!
Steady now! Hey!
Hit 'er back! Hey!
Drive 'er in! Hey!
Smash 'em! Hey!
And it's ev'ry year it wears away,
and time enacts its creeping dance,
Storms and waves against the rock face
Crumbles in to the expanse.
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer
Knock 'em down and split the stone,
Million years and more it's lain,
to build our churches, streets and homes.
Drive the wedge and drop the hammer,
Heave 'em up and haul 'em in,
Ev'ry block a new reminder;
where we are and where we've been.
Steady now! Hey!
Hit 'er back! Hey!
Drive 'er in! Hey!
Smash 'em!
==Recordings ==
===YouTube Videos===
* Music video
Category:Songs
Category:Shared Leads
Category:Longest Johns Originals