December
George Winston · 1982
39 min · 12 tracks · new age music
A serene blend of piano melodies that evoke winter's tranquility and holiday warmth through reflective harmonies.
Top tracks — play these first
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Thanksgiving Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its gentle, flowing melody that encapsulates a feeling of gratitude and reflection, inviting listeners into the seasonal experience.
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Variations on the Kanon by Johann Pachelbel — Winston's interpretation of this classical piece transforms it into a serene meditation, illustrating his ability to blend traditional music with new age sensibilities while providing a fresh perspective on a well-known composition.
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Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head — This track stands out for its contemplative simplicity, inviting a sense of peace and introspection through its delicate piano arrangement and evocative melody, fitting seamlessly into the album's spiritual undertones.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe serene piano melodies create a cohesive and calming experience, defining its place in the new age genre.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of solo piano throughout, with each track focusing on melodic variations rather than complex arrangements.
- Several tracks are structured as medleys, seamlessly transitioning between different themes and motifs without breaks.
- The tempo remains predominantly slow and reflective, creating a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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9/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- tranquil winter ambiance
- steady melodic flow
- reflective listening moments
- short, contemplative pieces
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Established Winston's reputation in the new age genre with significant commercial success.
- Themes
- winter tranquility· holiday warmth· seasonal reflection
- Career context
- Released in 1982, December is George Winston's second studio album, following his debut, Autumn. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his place within the new age genre, showcasing a distinct style characterized by solo piano compositions that emphasize seasonal themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ludovico Einaudi· Yann Tiersen· Philip Glass
Tracklist
- 1 Thanksgiving Start here 4:07
- 2 Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head 2:45
- 3 Joy 3:15
- 4 Prelude 1:16
- 5 Carol of the Bells 4:00
- 6 Night, Part One: Snow 1:54
- 7 Night, Part Two: Midnight 1:54
- 8 Night, Part Three: Minstrels 2:06
- 9 Variations on the Kanon by Johann Pachelbel 5:23
- 10 The Holly and the Ivy 4:56
- 11 Some Children See Him 3:52
- 12 Peace 4:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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