Lindsey Stirling "Snow Waltz"

So, it is safe to say that I did not expect a second seasonal offering from Stirling, but it is a trend that I have noticed in the past several years that artists, who have already released a solid holiday themed album return to the fold to wrap their sound with the magic that this season alludes to. Some of these sequels surpass their predecessor, the brightest star of these to me would have to be Kelly Clarkson's When Christmas Comes Around.

Wait a second here, what about Stirling? You're right, while this review is not made to compare her first seasonal strut with her Snow Waltz, people may do so regardless. I will say that I liked the numbers with the vocal accompaniment more on her first record than this one, for now; especially the Sabrina Carpenter assisted "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" or Becky G's beckoning in "Christmas C'mon," and the title track is another one of my favorites.

 

No, I do not disagree that Christmas is a "Time to Fall in Love," any time can be, but I like it a wee bit less than the rest. "Crazy for Christmas" is currently at the same level as the aforementioned, but it is growing on me, and with Archuleta singing about "Magic," I am convinced that it is only a matter of time before they reach the status. "Christmas Time With You" will not be forgotten either, and the vocals at the conclusion of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" were sufficient.

While I did like the instrumentals and her renditions from her first outing, even Mariah Carey's stamp on Christmas, I think I may like some of the instrumentals on this record more. Specifically, Stirling's winter well wishes of "Feliz Navidad" which can score a different type of dance if you will it. I also thought the eponymous instrumental original and "Ice Storm" were aptly titled, both synthesizing the alluded experience through sound.

To finalize my initial point, I do believe this record is a testament to the improvement of her craft.