Mannheim Steamroller - Christmas Extraordinaire (2001)

This CD recently arrived at my home in a batch of other used CDs. I've never heard it before and, to be honest, today is likely the only time I'll spin it. This was the group's fourth Christmas album and if it ain't broke don't fix it. As allmusic states: "There's a good chance if you enjoy other Mannheim holiday albums you'll enjoy this one. It's not one of the group's more noteworthy releases, but it should please Mannheim's devoted following." Group leader Chip Davis certainly likes to recycle ideas, but it's not plagiarism if you're stealing from yourself, is it?

Let's check in with the fine reviewers over at Amazon and get their thoughts:

• My Mom plays it all the time.
• I fear Chip will be joining that status of the Branson Missouri Christmas in July dinner theater crowd.
• I work at a library and have recommended this
• Look this Christmas music.
• got this for my new phone.

I've given MS plenty of listens - first while I was in college and very occasionally since - and the group's brand of cheesy musical pablum is just not my bag. I'll stick with Guaraldi, Karen, Phil, JD, Conniff, etc. for my holiday enjoyment. But this album has been certified triple platinum (over 3 million sold) so what do I know?

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: #5
• Billboard Holiday: #1
• Billboard New Age: #1

Tracks:

Personal Memory Associated with this CD:

Previously revisited for the blog:
Romantic Melodies (2003)

Mannheim Steamroller - Romantic Melodies (2003)

This CD arrived at my home in a batch of other used CDs. I've never heard it before and today is likely the only time I'll spin it. From what I've read, Chip Davis went back to grab some old melodies from the Fresh Aire series and give them some new settings. As allmusic states: "If you like your mood music bleak and lifeless, then this disc of romantic maladies is an ideal selection." To these ears, it sounds like New Age background music from a yoga DVD. Namaste.

Let's check in with the fine reviewers over at Amazon and get their thoughts:

• I use these selections in my massage practice
• it be honest i haven't listened to it yet [sic]
• If you just like music for the sake of music, it is a great album. (ed. note - wha??)
• It is the kind you can use for giving to friends in a special situation. (ed. note - wha??)
• I am almost totally deaf in my left ear, and so music with words is wasted on my ears. (ed. note - wha??)

If you want romantic background music for your next candlelight dinner, might I suggest Diana Krall, Sade, or The Breithaupt Brothers instead?

Do yourself a favor and instead of listening to this CD, educate yourself on where the group's name originated. The Mannheim school of composers were quite innovative in the 18th century. My favorite compositional innovation by the group was not the roller, but the Mannheim rocket. More here.

It's 7:30 AM and this CD has me primed for a nap.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: #41
• Billboard Independent: #1
• Billboard New Age: #1

Tracks:

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: