Hi Pal,
Singles
On The Way by Tjay Suni, JYFL
Lofi, Instrumentals
I’m kicking off this list with an instrumental Lofi piece by Tjay Suni and JYFL. Any fans of Tjay will recognize his signature guitar licks on this re-imagination of the classic Christmas tune, Jingle Bells.
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by All For The King
Hard Rock
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much I have come to enjoy All For The King’s style of hard rock. On this tune, they bring a punchiness to this classic Christmas song.
Still, Still, Still by Anna Palfreeman
Piano, Chamber Pop
When two of my favourite artists decided to create their versions of a classic hymn, I knew it was going to be something special. Anna Palfreeman’s version has a soothing quality to it, with lush strings and warm piano melodies.
Still, Still, Still by Jimmy Clifton
Indie/Alternative
Jimmy Clifton has been one of the best revelations of my 2023 musical year and he continues to surprise me. In his interpretation, he creates choral indie as children’s voices carry one-half of the song and adults carry the rest. Jimmy himself is mostly in the background, which was surprisingly refreshing.
The First Noel by Salt Of The Sound
Ambient
Salt of the Sound remains one of the best ambient projects on the Christian music scene. Anita Tatlow brings her ethereal vocals to this interpretation of the popular hymn.
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Sandra McCracken, Joseph Bradshaw
Folk, Singer-songwriter
What is Christmas time without some good old folk music? Sandra McCracken is a talented singer-songwriter and I enjoyed her take on this tune. Also, being a lover of beautiful harmonies, it was easy to fall in love with this one.
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Diatheke
Melodic Death Metal
If the last song was a cool evening breeze, this one is the scorching heat of the sun. I’ve been waiting for new Diatheke music for a little while now, and a Christmas single is always a welcome addition to their catalogue.
EPs
The Light EP by Sarah Sparks
Folk
Every year since 2020, Sarah Sparks has released something for the Christmas season and 2023 continues that amazing tradition. This short, four-track EP is wonderful for those who just want to sit, relax and enjoy the day.
That Christmas Night by Krig
Progressive Death Metal
It feels like the members of Krig have dedicated themselves to debunking secular Christmas traditions and practices to proclaim Christ as the true essence of the season. Last year, they dropped one of the heaviest Christmas EPs I’ve ever had the privilege of listening to. They are back at it again.
Albums
The Hopes & Fears of All the Years by Paul Demer
Indie/Alternative
It’s not a competition, but if it was, this is objectively one of the best Christmas albums I’ve heard in a few years. It is certainly my favourite one of this year. The Hopes & Fears of All the Years has a bit of everything sonically but generally exists around indie folk and indie rock.
Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery by The Gray Havens
Indie Folk, Indie Pop
For fans of The Gray Havens, you probably already know what to expect from this one. Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery is a solid addition to their discography and served as a reminder to me about the quality of this duo.
The Black Nativity by A Hill To Die Upon
Unblackened, Atmospheric Death Metal
This album is a unique experience and in the metal genre, it’s currently in my top five Christmas albums that reflect true Christian themes. That being said, it is very much not for everyone and is a concept album carefully crafted for fans of the genre(s) that it reflects.
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That’s it for today.
Catch you at the next one!
Feel free to leave a comment. Also, I am always open to hearing from you so feel free to send an email to me at
stismavo@gmail.com