Christmas Playlist

It’s that time of year again, so hang your stocking over the fireplace, roast some chestnuts and enjoy some hot cocoa while the snow drifts carelessly down to earth. Ok, so maybe none of those things are relevant to Floridians –except of course for the cocoa, which is an excellent choice in any climate –but as the big day draws ever closer it’s time to get in the Christmas spirit. Here are the must have albums for this year’s Christmas playlist.

Christmas Eve & Other Stories
No list of required Christmas music would be complete without The Trans Siberian Orchestra. Their now-famous rendition of the “Carol of the Bells,” entitled “Christmas Eve Sarajevo,” has become a staple song on nearly everybody’s playlist, and it should be on yours too. However, don’t forget that this album has more to offer than just that one song; it tells an incredible story, and if you haven’t heard it in its entirety, it just might be time to fix that.

Songs for Christmas
Phil Wickham is one of the most creative worship leaders and songwriters of our time, so when he puts together a Christmas album, you know it’s going to be excellent. Perhaps the best songs on the album are the bluegrass-inspired “The First Noel,” and the beautiful, albeit haunting, “O Come O Come Emmanuel.” This is easily one of the best collections of holiday favorites to come out in years and shouldn’t be missed. Do yourself a favor and buy this album today!

Red Sleddin’ Hill
This instrumental release from the metal-core band August Burns Red is certainly the heaviest on this list, and while that might be a deterrent for some, it’s exactly what draws others in. This is Christmas music to slam-dance and fight to, which makes it the popular choice among Black Friday shoppers.

It’s Christmas
Everyone’s favorite American Idol contestant, Mandisa, brings us this upbeat and soulful collection of holiday classics, such as “Angels We Have Heard on High,” and “What Child Is This.” From a singer whose heart is as beautiful as her voice, this is a wonderful album.

Let It Snow Baby…Let It Reindeer
From the pop-punk band Reliant K, this is a fun, energetic album from start to finish. With songs ranging from “Deck The Halls” and “The 12 Days Of Christmas,” to “Handel’s Messiah” and “Auld Lang Syne,” this record has a great range and will be fun for the whole family. And considering how catchy the songs are, don’t be surprised if you end up leaving this one on repeat.

Christmas
If you love that big band sound, and miss the days of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble is the singer you’ve been looking for. With a truly classic sound and style, Buble’s voice is the epitome of smooth and cool. With songs ranging from “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, to “Silent Night” and “Ave Maria,” this one covers a lot of the great Christmas classics.

Whichever music you choose to celebrate with this season, turn up the volume and get into the Christmas spirit!

Rick Deal blogs regularly at: culturemakerblog.com.

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