I've got two more songs before that third ghost appears.

Joseph Spence, a musician from the Bahamas, "sings" Santa Claus Is Coming to Town. I love this recording because the only line he knows is the title -- yet it doesn't really matter. You know the lyrics, there're stuck in your head. So you can sing along with his muppet-like delivery.

On the other side of the 'meaningful song' continuum is I Heard the Bells On Christmas Day. This version is by Pedro the Lion is spare and plaintive, focusing the attention to the cynic-challenging lyrics

Happy Eksmas to all!

So last week we saw Aimee Mann's Christmas show at the Birchmere. It's the third time she's doing it and the third time we've seen it -- always a hoot. Which reminded me that I should post some Christmas music on this fine website you are now perusing. Just a couple of songs related to the show.

In his stand-up bit, Paul F. Tomkins mentioned a pet peeve of mine. Song: It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year. Line: "There'll be scary ghost stories..." No. There's really only one Christmas-related ghost story. Don't exaggerate. But despite that line, I actually enjoy that song. It's as American of a Christmas song as you can get: big, happy, and full of hope. It's not really the most wonderful time of the year - the weather sucks, it's stressful, and full of obligations. But during the song, you actually believe that it is.

Here's the original by Andy Williams:

And here's a Shrift remix version (a bit less saccharine):

And Nelly McKay, another singer at the show, has a really catchy and sweet Christmas song, Take Me Away.

First started journeying into the countryside to cut down a Christmas tree back when I lived in Richmond, mid-80s. For a number of years recently we drove out to Milltown Creek Tree Farm to fetch a tree. Didn't do it this year, though. Without a young child or a holiday party, I just can't seem to put all that much effort into the festooning. But it's a good excuse to show off my MINI with the tree right on top. Continue reading »

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