“Last Christmas” by The Matinee

Well, #Whamageddon I guess!?
At least it’s with a fun Americana-style twist courtesy of Vancouver’s own The Matinee!

The band has their own original Christmas songs, but have never done a cover. Of the choice of song, lead singer Matt Layzell says: “You can’t go a few hours without hearing this one during the holidays, and we hope our version stands up and stands out and has you feeling festive for years to come.”

I definitely think it does!

Christine

“xmas angels” by JEEN

If you know me, you know I’m not the biggest fan of Christmas or holiday music. But the few songs I do like always seem to be on the more… downbeat side, so I am happy to add “xmas angels” from JEEN to the list.

The lo-fi song was written and recorded by JEEN in her attic, with drums later added by Stephan Szczesniak, and she says “It’s a melancholy track about the people we miss the most.”

Kirk

“Christmas Eve” by Laryssa Vachon

This is definitely not a holly jolly Christmas song, but hell is it ever fun!

Vancouver musician Laryssa Vachon has penned a song about Christmas Eve, aka her birthday. It covers the downfall of having such a date, lack of celebration (and usually alone), and both being a burden while simultaneously and continually being let down by those around her.

So needless to say Laryssa “really fucking hate[s] Christmas Eve”, but Happy Early Birthday Laryssa!!!

Christine

“Running on Empty” by Adaline

Okay, so this isn’t technically a holiday song, Adaline’s single “Running on Empty” from her new Ep Hymnal (due out March 22nd), is about the “stress and anxiety felt by many LGBTQ+ individuals during the holidays”.

“The new single hopes to resonate with those returning home to religious communities and families that still believe they need to be “saved””, says the press release.

It’s a beautiful and haunting song, and with it a video that was produced and edited by Adaline herself.

Have a safe and loving Holiday season everyone.

Christine