Christmas Symphony II
Mannheim Steamroller · 2013
49 min · 13 tracks · neoclassical new-age music
A lush orchestral blend of traditional carols infused with contemporary arrangements and rich instrumental textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Carol of the Bells — This track showcases the album's vibrant arrangement style, transforming a familiar melody into a dynamic orchestral experience that captivates listeners.
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Joy to the World — The arrangement breathes new life into this classic hymn, combining traditional elements with modern instrumentation that exemplifies Mannheim Steamroller's signature sound.
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Good King Wenceslas — This track stands out for its intricate layering of instruments, creating a festive atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of the holidays beautifully.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album effectively reinterprets classic carols with rich arrangements, though it remains within established genre conventions.
What we noticed
- Each track maintains a consistent tempo, with variations in dynamics and texture to create emotional peaks and valleys.
- Several tracks incorporate unexpected key changes, adding a sense of surprise and freshness to familiar melodies.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- rich orchestral textures throughout
- nostalgic holiday warmth and cheer
- for festive gatherings
- gentle lullabies for relaxation
- uplifting spirit of celebration
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy tracks
- prefer modern beats and vibes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Christmas Symphony II marks Mannheim Steamroller's continued evolution in the holiday music genre, following their successful Christmas Symphony release in 2001. By 2013, the group had solidified its status as a staple in holiday music, appealing to both nostalgic listeners and new audiences alike.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Carol of the Bells 3:56
- 2 Veni Veni 4:21
- 3 Away in a Manger 3:25
- 4 Joy to the World 3:42
- 5 Christmas Lullaby 4:07
- 6 Hallelujah 4:33
- 7 Do You Hear What I Hear? 4:07
- 8 Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming 2:26
- 9 Traditions of Christmas 3:38
- 10 Good King Wenceslas 3:34
- 11 We Three Kings 4:01
- 12 Pat a Pan / Fum, Fum, Fum Medley 4:02
- 13 Auld Lang Syne 3:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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