Lalu Bean

There are so many things that I love about Christmas time. Your surroundings turning into a different world overnight with the first snow, houses twinkling with lights, wrapping presents with care for loved ones, stockings filled with candy and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. 

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is the music. Surprise, no? I want to share with you some of my favorites from very traditional to not-so traditional... I love it all.

Sufjan Steven's songs for Christmas is simply perfect. The joyous harmonies and melodies play in my head for days and that's where I like to keep them forever. Words really can't define how amazing how great all of their tons of Christmas songs are. You must listen for yourself. (Sample here).

I grew up listening to this Christmas collection every year. Seriously every year... my mom can vouch for this. It's her favorite. Traditional, classic Christmas music. Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Julie Andrews, The Beach Boys, The Carpenters, Nat King Cole, & Dolly Parton among many, many others. (Sample here).

I think it's pretty obvious why I love this Christmas album. EVERLY. I probably would have loved it even if the songs sucked because it's Everly, but honestly, they could NEVER suck because it's EVERLY. It is sooooooo good. Very traditional, but with a bit of a twist. Oh, it's my favorite.

And then of course...

Even if you aren't familiar with the show, The OC, definitely check out this Christmas mix! It's sooo good. Seriously, check out the track listing here. I told you. Here's a little taste- you must listen to it!

And then there is everything Glee. Glee + Christmas = Unbeatable. I loved their Christmas episode.. & enjoyed so many songs, especially Baby It's Cold Outside, Welcome Christmas & Last Christmas:

And I certainly don't forget that a lot of great Christmas songs aren't on albums necessarily & have compiled quite the play list. Here are a few faves:

Christmas by Rogue Wave.
Christmas All Over Again by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers.
Peace on Earth / Little Drummer Boy by Jason Segel & Jack Black.

My list would not be complete without a Death Cab For Cutie Christmas tune. This one ROCKS:



I love love love this song from Elf w/ Zooey:

You can hear Zooey's full version with Leon Redbone here, I just prefer her with Mr. Ferrel.


And finally:

Glee did a pretty killer version of it this week too.

Oh, Christmas music. It seriously puts the biggest smile on my face. I'm going to listen to my favorites curled up with a cup of tea & a good book.


Goonight!
Hope you enjoyed.

xo.

Chelsea