Ok I get it not working with Hammer Rhythm, but wouldn't it do 1.5x or 2x Strength modifier damage with Reaping Strike? Not to mention any half damage on miss attacks get more of a damage boost as well.
It definitely makes the power more epic. I've re-read the power several times and have consulted the PHB, and I can't find anything that would contradict that interpretation. Unless CS or the errata say otherwise, in my games, I'm ruling it works that way.