Songs for Christmas
Sufjan Stevens · 2006
123 min · 42 tracks · alternative rock · classical · electronic
A whimsical blend of traditional carols and original compositions that evoke both nostalgia and cheer.
Why this album works
'Songs for Christmas' has become a beloved staple during the holiday season, recognized for its fresh takes on traditional carols and original tracks. It has influenced indie music's approach to holiday releases, paving the way for artists to create more personal and artistic seasonal music beyond mainstream holiday standards.
- Best for
- whimsical celebrations of nostalgia for holiday gatherings playful interludes with varying tempos
- Context
- By the time 'Songs for Christmas' was released in November 2006, Sufjan Stevens had already gained critical acclaim with his previous albums, including 'Illinois' (2005), which solidified his reputation as a unique voice in indie folk. This holiday compilation marked a departure from his usual thematic explorations, showcasing his playful side while continuing to experiment with arrangements and instrumentation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Moby· Green Day· Nine Inch Nails· Linkin Park· Sonic Youth· Foo Fighters· Ariana Grande· Weezer
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Silent Night 0:44
- 2 O Come O Come Emmanuel Standout 4:00
- 3 We’re Goin’ to the Country! 2:17
- 4 Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming 3:22
- 5 It’s Christmas! Let’s Be Glad! 1:55
- 6 Holy Holy, Etc. 0:41
- 7 Amazing Grace 4:09
Disc 2
- 1 Angels We Have Heard on High 0:45
- 2 Put the Lights on the Tree 1:48
- 3 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing 4:43
- 4 I Saw Three Ships 2:34
- 5 Only at Christmas Time 2:14
- 6 Once in Royal David’s City 3:40
- 7 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing! 0:45
- 8 What Child Is This Anyway? 6:47
- 9 Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella 1:39
Disc 3
- 1 O Come O Come Emmanuel Standout 1:03
- 2 Come On! Let’s Boogey to the Elf Dance! 3:49
- 3 We Three Kings 2:58
- 4 O Holy Night 4:04
- 5 That Was the Worst Christmas Ever! Standout 3:18
- 6 Ding! Dong! 0:55
- 7 All the King’s Horns 2:59
- 8 The Friendly Beasts 3:42
Disc 4
- 1 The Little Drummer Boy 3:43
- 2 Away in a Manger 2:54
- 3 Hey Guys! It’s Christmas Time! 4:41
- 4 The First Noel 0:52
- 5 Did I Make You Cry on Christmas Day? (Well, You Deserved It!) 3:21
- 6 The Incarnation 2:23
- 7 Joy to the World 4:20
Disc 5
- 1 Once in Royal David’s City 2:01
- 2 Get Behind Me, Santa! Standout 3:49
- 3 Jingle Bells 0:36
- 4 Christmas in July 3:16
- 5 Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming 1:45
- 6 Jupiter Winter 3:50
- 7 Sister Winter 5:04
- 8 O Come O Come Emmanuel Standout 1:06
- 9 Star of Wonder 7:07
- 10 Holy, Holy, Holy 3:50
- 11 The Winter Solstice 3:22
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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