Merry Christmas! For the past month I’ve compiled selections in the inaugural year of the Christmas Present project; across 10 entries more than 20 songs have been selected for a different kind of holiday playlist. Here, I recap them in the final hours of Christmas Day, and next year we’ll add more to the list.
- The Bird and the Bees’ “Carol of the Bells.” One of the earlier selections as I developed my playlist, and one of the most musically dynamic, the duo merges jazz and pop stylings admirably.
- Honey and the Bees’ “Jing Jing a Ling.” Classic songs off the beaten path have their moment, and this one made my playlist.
- The Puppini Sisters’ “Jingle Bells.” Classic-sounding modern sounds have their place too, thanks to the harmonizing of the sisters.
- Relient K’s “Merry Christmas, Here’s to Many More.” A Christian rock band brings their reliably beautiful performances to this original gem.
- Virginia Kegel’s “I Want a Boob Job for Christmas.” This Bob & Tom classic adds a funny touch to the playlist.
- Cee Lo Green’s “All I Need is Love.” Merging the soul and fun of Cee-Lo with the quirky and fun Muppets leads to a fun track.
- Christina Perri’s “Something About December.” Perri’s vocally in a great place with a beautiful ballad. A great new addition in 2012.
- Pentatonix’s “Carol of the Bells.” The a capella quintet brings a beautiful vocal take to the song.
- Fitz and the Tantrums’ “Santa Stole My Lady.” A recommended track is a jazzy, soulful new item on the playlist.
If you have suggestions for songs to add to the playlist, share them in the comments, and come back next year for more selections! Onto less Christmas-y things tomorrow.