When you think of Christmas music, do you envision warm nights by the fire wearing your favourite Primark atrocity (see: onesies), or an overwhelming urge to stick your neck through a jolly tinsel noose? The truth is, some years we grow tired of hearing the same old songs and that’s okay. Whether you’re looking to just mix it up a little, maintain your individuality during one of the most mainstream holidays or even go full out Grinch mode, Cultured Vultures are here to help, with suggestions on alternative Christmas music.
5. Blink-182 – ‘I Wont Be Home For Christmas’
The ultimate anti-christmas track of the early noughties, for those who are 300% done with the entire concept. Everyone who was a teenager at the time knew and loved this song, although the cynicism was generally faked because, as we all know, being excited for anything as a teenager is just not ‘cool’.
“If you don’t wanna get beat down
Just leave the presents and then leave me alone.”
4. Lower Than Atlantis – ‘Merry Christmas Wherever You Are’
In their punky ode to Christmas spirit, our beloved Watford lads who also featured in our Top 25 Albums this year, provide a polar opposite to the cynical track of Blink-182. With heart-warming lyrics involving typically British antics of takeaways and pub grub, they remind us that Christmas is for all to enjoy, ‘whether it’s spent with family or friends, or getting drunk alone again‘.
3. Corey Taylor – ‘X-M@$’
… And we’re back to cynical. With the style of this track you’d be forgiven for thinking Corey Taylor to be an insane man sat in a cabin in the woods with nothing but his guns and hunting equipment for company, as opposed to lead vocalist of metal band Slipknot. Providing a more colourful Christmas vocabulary and advocating alcoholism, this is not one for the religious folks, but a hilarious bash at needless consumerism.
2. Reuben – ‘Christmas Is Awesome’
Another one with anti-religious themes, this is one for the metal fans. In this controversial track from British-bred alternative rock group Reuben, the screaming whispers of Jamie Lenman try to tear tradition a new one.
“Well, it’s your birthday
so have a party!
We’re sorry about all of that
“nailed to a cross” business”
1. Barenaked Ladies – ‘God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/We Three Kings’
Our personal favourite this year. This upbeat twist on two traditional Christmas classics is guaranteed to have you clicking your fingers and bopping your head along within seconds. In contrast with the warming indie feel of the acoustic guitar, Sarah McLachlan’s vocals will give you chills!
Metal fans may also want to check out August Burns Red‘s christmas album, titled August Burns Red Presents: Sleddin’ Hill A Holiday Album.
Happy listening!
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