Mannheim Steamroller Christmas By Chip Davis

In various press releases and articles, Mannheim Steamroller's Chip Davis proudly recalls trying to shop his New-Age Christmas concept in the early '80s and meeting with rejection from all the major labels and distributors. Released in 1984, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas went on to sell some 9 million albums, proving the record label execs wrong (again). The Ohio-born Davis then developed a larger-than-life touring ensemble to bring the synth-heavy tunes to life. In 2009, Mannheim celebrated the 25th anniversary of that first Christmas album with a special two-CD set that included its renditions of tunes such as "Joy to the World" and "The First Noel." The live show is a multimedia extravaganza — which is a good thing, since these smooth jazz renditions of yuletide tunes will often put you to sleep. Tonight's concert takes place at 7:30 at the State Theatre. Tickets start at $10. (Niesel)