Tis the season for the obligatory holiday-themed CD. It seems almost every recording artist has produced one at some point or another. Get yours now, because after December 25, it is très faux pas to blast “Frosty the Snowman” from your car stereo. Just don’t do it. This year there’s a very eclectic mix, sure to please the holiday lover in everyone.
Various Artists – We Wish You a Metal Xmas…And A Headbanging New Year: For those of you who’d rather go caroling in a moshpit, this is a must-have. Get: “Run Rudolph Run” by Dave Grohl, Lemmy Kilmister and Billy Gibbons. It’s a lot of fun, and much less embarrassing to listen to than the Hanson version. Avoid: A laugh-inducing screamo version of “Silent Night” by Chris Wyse, Chuck Billy, Scott Ian, Jon Donais and John Tempesta.
Melissa Etheridge – A New Thought For Christmas: The guitar picking and warm vocals let Etheridge’s original tracks blend perfectly with well-known tunes to add a fresh, personal feel to the season of holiday repeats. Get: The stirring romp “Christmas in America.” Avoid: “Light a Light.” It’s just a little too hokey.
Various Artists – The Hotel Café Presents Winter Songs: A Christmas estrogen fest the likes of which have never before been compiled onto one disc. An excellent assortment of beloved classics and originals performed by up-and-coming female artists. Get: “Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson. It’s dainty and beautiful. Winter set to music. Avoid: “White Christmas” by Katy Perry, which sounds like she recorded it in an empty nightclub after taste-testing too much eggnog.
Stephen Colbert – A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift Of All!: Featuring several diverse guest artists, America’s favorite comedy genius has just proved that he can do anything. Someday he’ll sweep Broadway off its feet. Get: “Can I Interest You In Hannukah?” with Jon Stewart. Avoid: “Nutmeg” with John Legend. It’s clever, but it gets old after a while.
There you have it. Get out there and enjoy this holiday season. Hopefully these songs will get you into the spirit. This kind of magical happiness only comes around once a year.
*graphic by TT.
