When Mannheim Steamroller’s first Christmas album appeared in 1984, it was a surprise hit, and it’s still in demand (it’s currently #377 on Amazon’s list of bestsellers). It featured all-instrumental versions of familiar carols, but its instruments were often synthesizers. No soaring violins on this album.
From the Christmas album, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen — Mannheim Steamroller:
I liked Mannheim Steamroller until I discovered Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Steamroller’s early albums were the best; they’ve fallen off a little. I think Chip Davis’s mind has been on other forms of music.
I’d never even heard of TSO until that video of Christmas lights synchronized to their music appeared a couple of years ago.