American Spirit

1	Star Spangled Banner 2:41
2	American Spirit 2:38
3	America the Beautiful 3:44
4	Convoy 3:53
5	Fanfare for the Common Man 3:48
6	Yellowstone Morning 2:53
7	Heritage 4:40
8	Wolf Creek Pass 4:02
9	Home on the Range 4:18
10	Mt. McKinley 2:54
11	Cloudburst 9:31
12	Tin Type 4:49
13	Battle Hymn of the Republic 4:45

Barnes & Noble

Offering a collection of classic patriotic tunes and new music inspired by America, Mannheim Steamroller's American Spirit is a stirring musical tribute to the USA. Backed by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Chip Davis -- the talent behind the Steamroller -- performs updated versions of such standards as "America the Beautiful," "Home on the Range," and more, while narrator Bill Fries lends his voice to three tracks. Inspired by popular demand, the album tips its hat to fans while paying homage to a nation.

All Music Guide

American flag-waving hit a fever pitch following the events of 9/11, and along with it came a flood of Americana-related merchandise and music that utilized the Stars & Stripes in just about every way imaginable. As this patriotic sentiment was still riding high on amber waves of grain, Chip Davis chose to exhibit his American Spirit from atop his famous Mannheim Steamroller. Not unlike most superstar acts, Mannheim Steamroller has become more of a corporation than a musical entity with recent discs and related products that seem to focus more on theme and sales rather than the intricate and fascinating sounds of the early Fresh Aire and Christmas series. American Spirit is comprised of popular American songs, sentimental spoken word recitations, and even a couple of old hit songs, all of which are tied together with a big red, white, and blue bow to craft a perfect patriotic gift. Several of the songs are either re-recorded or taken directly from previous releases, like the track "Yellowstone Morning," here celebrating its third incarnation; or "Convoy" and "Wolf Creek Pass," Davis' early hit collaborations with Bill Fries (aka C.W. McCall). The Davis original, "Mt. McKinley," features the signature Mannheim synthesizer/orchestral sound. Aaron Latham