Whether you like to rock to “Jingle Bells” or you prefer something a bit less… chipper, we’ve got a broad range of familiar and off-beat tracks just in time for the approaching holiday season. Follow along on a tour through The Orchard’s winter wonderland:
Ingrid Michaelson: Ingrid Michaelson’s Songs For The Season (Cabin 24 Records)
A major fan of Christmas herself, Ingrid Michaelson mesmerizes with her sultry composition. The album is packed with Ingird’s romantic renditions of many ultimate classics like “All I Want For Christmas” below as well as one original track titled “Happy, Happy Christmas.” With featured artists including Christina Perri, Grace VanderWaal, Leslie Odom Jr. and more, this album is a must-hear and a perfect gift for family members who enjoy heartfelt favorites.
William Shatner: Shatner Claus (Cleopatra Records)
Ready for an upgrade? You’ve heard of Santa Claus, but this year Shatner Claus will be flying into town! Featuring Henry Rollins, Brad Paisley, Iggy Pop, and loads more, the captain himself William Shatner is sure to knock your fuzzy slippers off with his extra special album. His one-of-a-kind voice will take you on a magical journey far past the North Pole. Forget about reindeer, your presents are arriving courtesy of the USS Enterprise this year.
Whitehorse: A Whitehorse Winter Classic (Six Shooter)
Sick of sacrificing good quality music for the holidays or simply over the same old tunes year after year? Whitehorse is too, which is why they put together A Whitehorse Winter Classic. The album is comprised almost entirely of original tracks from the husband and wife duo, with the exception of “Blue Christmas” and “2000 Miles.” The young parents tell PopMatters about their goals to avoid the generic holiday noise saying, “…there are things about the season that, despite one’s objection to profligate consumerism or the fantasy of religion, are worth celebrating. Family, children (and the wonder and awe of children’s’ fantasy), surviving the Canadian winter, managing loneliness, romance, eating and drinking … there’s lots to unpack in these themes.” Experience holidays Whitehorse style, equipped with a fireplace and advent calendar on their website and enter for a chance to win stocking stuffers from the duo.
The Mavericks: Hey! Merry Christmas! (Mono Mundo Recordings)
1996 GRAMMY winners and multi-nominated Americana/Country group, The Mavericks gear up for the arrival of the big bearded man in red. The fun, eclectic group is sure to have you ‘Rock’n Around the Christmas Tree.’ The few classics included are so far from their original sound you may find they’re hardly recognizable in The Maverick’s reimagining.
Ozuna: ‘Llego La Navidad’ (VP Records / DimeloVi)
Can’t stop, won’t stop. Ozuna does not skip a beat, not even during the holidays. The massive Latin star dropped a surprise new track as a gift to fans with ‘Llego La Navidad’ topping off the year with a bow. The artist won a slew of awards and has dominated Latin lists and earned YouTube’s worldwide most viewed in 2018. Watch the bright video below which is already on it’s way to a million views following its release on Tuesday.
Tracy Lawrence: Frozen in Time (Lawrence Music Group)
Texas native Tracy Lawrence brings a whole lot of southern drawl this winter with his holiday album Frozen In Time. The legendary country performer covers the usual suspects like “Frosty The Snowman,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Here Comes Santa Clause” and…..”Cold Beer.” Okay, there’s definitely some unique originals in here from Tracy’s early year. For those who love the quirky side of Tracy, you won’t be disappointed. In the new title track below, Tracy describes holiday cards and photos that capture the joyous memories of family throughout the years passed.
Can’t pick just one or need a good party playlist? Listen along and find your favorites here:
