Sounds of the Season

​This morning, I'm heading out to the woods to hunt down our Christmas tree. I get knocked sometimes about my love of all things Christmas - especially the music. I'm cool with that. I'm a magician. So, if you think you can rattle me about being lame - then you've got some serious work ahead of you.
 
I think one of the reasons so many people get tired of Christmas music is the repetition. Sometimes all it takes is a deep dive. In that spirit, here are ten seldom heard Christmas songs that should be added to your playlists. Enjoy (or scroll on, it's your call)….
 
Joseph, Who Understood - The New Pornographers
It's no easy task to track this down. It appeared on the Challengers Album - but ONLY on the Executive Edition. It will take more than a little work to locate it. Luckily, you can listen to it on YouTube if you're not up for hanging out in used record stores.
 
Old City Bar - Trans Siberian Orchestra
I'm not a huge Trans Siberian Orchestra fan, but I've always loved this particular track from their debut album. TSO may not be my jam, but magical realism is - so this song always gets me right in the feels.
 
Dear Santa - Ring Star
Commercial radio sure does love Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime" and I've been known to keep Lennon's "Happy Xmas" on repeat more than a time or two. But give Ringo a little love this holiday season. If you still need more Beatles for the holidays - you can't go wrong turning up George Harrison's "Ding, Dong, Ding, Dong" on New Year's Eve.
 
A Dollar Short of Happy - Nick Lowe
You can picture Nick Lowe in a smoke-filled club playing to handful of slightly tipsy and troubled patrons.  It may be a little melancholy for the season - but all the best ones are.  
 
(It Must've Been Ol') Santa Claus - Harry Connick Jr.
You'll need a pick me up after that last song. This is it. Happy Ho, Ho, Ho to you!
 
Donde Esta Santa Claus? - Augie Rios 
I've noticed this song finally sneaking into some air play. It's about time. But it better be the Augie Rios version! If I hear anyone playing that abomination by Straight No Chaser, I'm coming for you.
 
The Secret Of Christmas - Ella Fitzgerald
If you know this song, it's probably because of old Bing Crosby. It was written for him and there's no doubt his version is great. But the first time I heard Ella sing it, she broke me. 
 
Alone on Christmas Day - Phoenix
The holidays can be tough on a lot of people. I love the season, but I'd be lying if I said I never feel a little down. It's like the song says - you gotta keep moving on. Plus, Bill Murray.
 
My Dear Acquaintance - Regina Spektor
I'm pretty certain Peggy Lee was the first to sing this song, but Regina Spektor knocks it out of the park with her take. In fact, you need more Regina in all your playlists.
 
Fairytale of New York - The Pogues
This might be the most well-known of the lesser-known songs on this list. It's not for everyone but it's always been a personal favorite. Sadly - the Pogues, Shane MacGowan passed away just a few days ago. When he sings the line "…won't see another one" it hits harder this year. There is a single less than PC moment in the lyrics, I hope you can forgive a poet this small transgression. Even if you know the song, give it a play and raise a glass to Shane this season.

Happy Holidays my friends and best wishes for the coming New Year!​