A List of Christmas Albums and EPs in the Christian Alternative Space
#2 - The Christmas Newsletter
Hi Pal,
As always, welcome to this space if you are new. Let’s jump right into it, shall we?
You’ll receive the album details, a short description, and embedded links in the spirit of rapid recommendations.
Albums
1. Bells Merrily by Ronnie Martin
Synthwave, Electropop
This is my second favourite ‘80s electronic, retro-inspired Christmas album, for sure.
2. Holiday Fable by Ronnie Martin
Synthwave, Electropop
The only album that could beat my second favourite ‘80s electronic, retro-inspired Christmas album.
3. The Light Came Down by Josh Garrels
Alternative Folk
This album is probably the gold standard for folksy Christmas albums and it’s been almost a decade since its release.
4. Let It Snow Baby…Let It Reindeer by Relient K
Pop Punk, Alternative
I never use the word “classic” lightly. This album fits that description snuggly.
5. Christmas Songs by Jars of Clay
Alternative Indie
See the previous album. Everything I said there is applicable here, for entirely different reasons.
6. And On Earth, Peace by Salt Of The Sound
Ambient
Ambient goodness and soothing vocals at their absolute best.
7. In The Bleak Midwinter by John Van Deusen
Indie Folk
I was pleasantly surprised when this album dropped. It remains a comforting listen to date.
8. Christmas In My Heart (acoustic) by Mike Rathke
Indie Folk
Honestly, Mike Rathke has been killing it this year. This is probably my favourite from the 2024 catalogue on this list.
9. Come Behold: Christmas Collaborations by Celtic Worship
Singer-songwriter, Folk, Americana
This is an eclectic and vibrant release for the whole family.
10. Oh For Joy by David Crowder Band
Electronic Rock, CCM
I loved this album when I heard it 13 years ago, I still love it now.
11. August Burns Red Presents: Sleddin’ Hill, A Holiday Album by August Burns Red
Instrumental, Metalcore
A lot has changed with these guys today. But back then, this was the best Christmas-themed release in the genre.
12. Halfway Through the Night by The Hedgerow Folk
Folk
Another 2024 release on this list that is worth a listen.
13. An As Isaac and Friends Family Christmas by As Isaac
Folk, Singer-Songwriter
One of my favourite releases by this duo to date. I highly recommend it.
EPs
1. Christmas In The Midwest EP by Chris Renzema
Indie Rock, Indie Folk
He just understands how to create indie music, does he? So good!
2. A Merry Little Christmas by Jonathan Allen Wright
Indie Alternative
This one has no business being as good as it is. JAW just gets it.
3. Lowborn by Wolves At The Gate
Melodic Metalcore
I spend most of my time listening to this EP telling WATG “Stop it”. Stop it with these bangers.
4. Fruit of Winter by Former Ruins
Indie Rock
Hands down, my favourite project for Advent.
5. Songs of Christmas by Alabaster Co.
Instrumental, Piano
If you’re looking for a relaxing listen by the fire, this works.
6. A Very Crafted Christmas by Crafted Child
Alternative Pop
It’s short and sweet.
7. Christmas hymns by the quiet hours, Andrew Osenga
Acoustic, Folk
Another one in the short and sweet spot.
That’s it for today.
Merry Christmas in advance!
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