It’s official, the holidays are here and whether you’re a reluctant scrooge or a merry little elf, we have just the soundtrack for you! From melancholic ballad to straight-up festive bangers, there’s something for everyone in this special annual playlist.
Ava Della Pietra’s ‘Reindeer Rebellion’ delivers a fresh, edgy twist to holiday music with its playful energy and dynamic storytelling. Opening with a dreamy melody that crescendos into a bold, bass-driven chorus, the track perfectly blends festive cheer with a rebellious flair. Ava’s sassy vocal delivery shines as she tells the tale of Rudolph and his crew reclaiming holiday magic, highlighted by clever, lively lyrics like “Rudolph’s coming with a reindeer rebellion.” It’s a vibrant addition to any holiday playlist, showcasing Ava’s knack for crafting engaging, genre-defying pop. A fun, unexpected anthem that reinvents the festive season with attitude.
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With poetic lyricism and an infectious rhythm, The New Citizen Kane’s ‘Lonely Christmas Lights’ offers a refreshingly introspective take on holiday music, blending neo-soul and electro-pop to explore the emotional duality of the season. The track captures both the joy of festive lights and the solitude they can amplify. Lines like “isolated like the stars, above us so high” juxtapose cheerful imagery with the pang of loneliness, while the empowering refrain, “I’ve got the dance-floor, that’s where I leave my fear,” transforms solitude into celebration. A vibrant anthem of resilience, ‘Lonely Christmas Lights’ is both a poignant and uplifting holiday standout.
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‘This Year’s Winter’ is a beautifully stark and contemplative folk song that captures the raw essence of the season from singer-songwriter Bob John Holt. With a stripped-back acoustic arrangement, the track evokes the rugged landscapes of the Nordic north, mirroring the artist’s roots as a carpenter turned musician. His weathered voice, rich with authenticity, carries reflections on life’s fleeting moments, blending urgency with a quiet grandeur. The simplicity of the melody paired with evocative lyrics creates a timeless Americana feel, resonating deeply with those who know the beauty and isolation of winter. ‘This Year’s Winter’ is an intimate, heartfelt ode to nature and self-discovery.
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Lucille Two’s cover of Brenda Lee’s ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ is a dreamy, psychedelic reimagining of the holiday classic. Trudy Bennett’s angelic vocals bring a tender, understated melancholy to the track, contrasting beautifully with the rousing instrumentals and warm nostalgia woven throughout. The duo’s signature blend of dream pop, synth pop, and space rock infuses the song with a fresh yet timeless quality, creating a lush sonic landscape that’s uniquely their own. Teaming up with Ozwald and producer Simon Dobson, Lucille Two captures both the festive spirit and a reflective undertone, making this rendition a standout holiday offering.
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‘Xmas Sox’ weaves a bittersweet tale of lost love and lingering emotions. B.Miles’ introspective lyrics explore the bittersweet nostalgia of Christmas socks, a symbol of both warmth and heartbreak. The vocals, imbued with both vulnerability and resilience, capture the complexity of emotions that arise when revisiting past relationships. The production, with its delicate melodies and understated instrumentation, complements the song’s introspective tone, creating a haunting and poignant atmosphere. Overall, ‘Xmas Sox’ is a poignant and relatable song that delves into the universal themes of loss, memory, and the bittersweet nature of moving on.
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Evoking feelings of nostalgia, longing, and hope, ‘Falling Like Stars’ is a poignant ballad with ethereal melodies and haunting vocals create a captivating atmosphere, while the lyrics explore themes of loss, connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. Bird’s powerful vocals convey a range of emotions, from sadness and regret to joy and optimism. The song’s production is also noteworthy, with delicate instrumentation and subtle sonic details that enhance the emotional impact of the music. ‘Falling Like Stars’ is a beautifully crafted and moving song that resonates deeply with listeners who are seeking solace and connection in the face of loss and uncertainty.
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Jon Vinyl captures the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season with his soulful R&B track ‘Nothing Like Christmas’. His smooth vocals and honest lyrics paint a vivid picture of love, longing, and the magic of Christmas. The production, with its delicate guitar strums and lush synths, complements the song’s intimate and reflective mood. The track’s nostalgic undertones and heartfelt delivery make it a perfect addition to any holiday playlist. Jon Vinyl’s ability to blend classic R&B elements with contemporary production techniques results in a timeless and captivating sound.
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PURPLE MELON 