It’s that time of year when all the hipsters don their pea coats and Biolans gather for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Yes, it seems Christmas always comes quickly, but along with it this year comes several Christmas records released. New albums from artists including She & Him, Michael Bublé, Hillsong, Justin Bieber and The Killers are sure to please many music fans this Christmas.
This year contains a wide breadth of new Christmas music sure to please fans of all different ages and styles of music — adding a new variety to the old Christmas classics loved by all.
She & Him
Released in October, “A Very She & Him Christmas” is similar in style to Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.| Courtesy of stereogum.com
The lovely Zooey Deschanel and her musical partner M. Ward released “A Very She & Him Christmas” in October. The record brings back the style of classic ’40s and ’50s musicians such as Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. This album is sure to become a Christmas classic loved by many. Including the Christmas classic “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” which Deschanel became famous for performing it in the film “Elf.” However, in the album version of this song, the male/female vocals parts have been switched. This change unfortunately takes away from the song rather than adding positive originality.
Michael Bublé
Michale Bublé released “Christmas” in October, which features classic Christmas favorites.| Courtesy of nbc.com
Michael Bublé also released a Christmas record this October. The album is ever-so eloquently titled “Christmas.” This is a solid album of Christmas classics branded with Buble’s brand of a modern twist on big band music that makes you check the date on the newspaper and see if there is a DeLorean conveniently hidden behind a billboard at the edge of town. Many may shudder at the sight of “Santa Baby” on the track list, but with a closer listen, one can hear that the original lyrics have been replaced by the much more humorous “Santa Buddy/ a 65 convertible too/ steel blue/ I’ll wait up for you dude.” This is a solid album from beginning to end and is sure to warm the hearts and homes of many this season.
Hillsong
Hillsong’s “Born Is The King” Christmas album features favorites like “O Come Let Us Adore Him.”| Courtesy of salvationmusic.com
Next up is Hillsong’s “Born Is The King,” an album full of worship-centered Christmas music. This album elevates the true meaning of Christmas and is a true celebration of the ultimate gift to mankind, the birth of Jesus Christ. “O Come Let Us Adore Him” is a song sure to be loved by fans of the band — including an infectious worshipful original chorus. This adds a true mark of originality. This album is perfect for keeping the focus on what the truth of Christmas.
Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s “Under The Mistletoe” is a Christmas album geared more toward his fan base of tweens.| Courtesy of Cambio.com
Justin Bieber was also among the artists that released albums this Christmas season. With the release of “Under The Mistletoe,” the Biebz will have the teeny-boppers everywhere screaming with delight at the sound of the teen heartthrob’s voice. This album includes songs such as the hit single “Mistletoe,” a predictably poppy song filled with ukulele plucks and “shawtys” crooned left and right. This album is sure to appeal to Bieber’s horde of tween fans.
The Killers
“(RED) Christmas EP” by The Killers is an indie Christmas album with guest vocals including Elton John.| Courtesy of songonlylyrics.com
Last but not least is The Killers Christmas EP released for charity called “(RED) Christmas EP.” This is a gem of an EP, made up of original Christmas songs. Marked by the band’s signature electro indie rock they are loved for, the album also includes incredible guest artists such as Elton John. This album should be in the collection of every Killers fan as well as anyone looking for a unique, indie Christmas record. The proceeds go toward the Global Fund, a charity dedicated to helping those affected by HIV and AIDS.
