What makes Christmas in L.A. by The Killers notable?

'Christmas in L.A.' not only resonated with fans during the holiday season but also contributed to The Killers' tradition of releasing charity singles. The song reached notable positions on various charts and was well-received, further solidifying the band's presence in contemporary music and aligning with their philanthropic efforts through supporting (RED). Released as a standalone single in December 2013, 'Christmas in L.A.' marked a departure from The Killers' previous studio album, 'Battle Born.' At this point in their career, the band had already established themselves as key players in the alternative rock scene since their breakout in the early 2000s, and this holiday release showcased their ability to incorporate seasonal themes into their distinct sound.

How many songs are on Christmas in L.A.?

Christmas in L.A. has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Christmas in L.A.

The Killers · 2013

4 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A festive blend of alternative rock and holiday cheer, infused with a longing for home amidst L.A.'s bright lights.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Christmas in L.A — This title track encapsulates the essence of the album by blending the warmth of nostalgia with a modern take on Christmas themes, showcasing Brandon Flowers' evocative storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The song effectively blends holiday themes with alternative rock elements, creating a memorable yet seasonal piece.

What we noticed

The song features a steady mid-tempo beat with layered guitars and synths that create a bright, festive atmosphere.
Vocals are shared between Brandon Flowers and a guest artist, allowing for a conversational dynamic throughout the track.
The arrangement includes a prominent use of bells and choral backing vocals, enhancing the holiday theme.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A standalone holiday single that adds to their catalog without being a primary entry point.
Themes: Los Angeles holiday spirit· nostalgic warmth· seasonal longing
Career context: Released as a standalone single in December 2013, 'Christmas in L.A.' marked a departure from The Killers' previous studio album, 'Battle Born.' At this point in their career, the band had already established themselves as key players in the alternative rock scene since their breakout in the early 2000s, and this holiday release showcased their ability to incorporate seasonal themes into their distinct sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Franz Ferdinand· The Strokes· Arctic Monkeys