SPILL FEATURE: GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT, SANTA! I CAN TAKE IT! – SPILL MAGAZINE EXPOSES SOME OF THE BEST/WORST 2023 CHRISTMAS RELEASES (PART TWO)

GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT, SANTA! I CAN TAKE IT!

SPILL MAGAZINE EXPOSES SOME OF THE BEST/WORST 2023 CHRISTMAS RELEASES (PART TWO)

As The Beatles once sang, “Christmastime is here again, it ain’t been around since you know when.” That means a whole new crop of Christmas releases. Sure there is a finite amount of Christmas songs, but these artists are digging deep for lost treasures and writing their own songs. So, let us look at some new Christmas music for 2023.  Merry Christmas, get out the eggnog, and enjoy!

2023 CHRISTMAS ALBUMS

Don McLean
Christmas Memories: Remixed And Remastered
BFD/Orchard
October 27, 2023

Don McLean regales us with holiday hits old and new, on his album Christmas Memories: Remixed and Remastered. This is not a reissue, but it does contain previously released material from the American Pie-man’s earlier holiday albums, Christmas (1991), and Christmas Dreams (1997). McLean has shared with us that he has never really been happy with some of those old recordings, and felt that there was an issue with the bass guitar part on a number of the tracks, that did not sit right with him. The solution was a re-recorded bass part which eventually led to the re-mixing of twelve tracks in total.

The result is a diverse new playlist, which varies from a straightforward singer-songwriter folk style, to more jazz leanings and lush productions. Standout tracks include McLean’s version of “Blue Christmas”, with its unusual major to minor key flip-flops, and the dramatic vocal pop sound of “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen”. While Christmas Memories: Remixed and Remastered is interesting and contains technical improvements, the project seems a bit uneven as a whole. Die-hard fans will love it, but others may prefer to use favourite tracks as part of their own playlists. Listen and decide!

Sabrina Carpenter
fruitcake
Universal/Island
November 17, 2023

fruitcake, the six-song EP offering from Sabrina Carpenter, a singer/actor best known for her work in Disney Channel productions, is pure pop confection. The collection kicks off with “A Nonsense Christmas”: a light hearted, bass-heavy handful of holiday clichés set to music. Things get a touch heavier with “Buy Me Presents”, a wall of sound throwback whose overall feel and saxophone break strongly evoke Springsteen’s “Hungry Heart”. It makes for some pleasant, if derivative, listening, and the final verse breakdown adds some sonic variety.

Generally speaking, fruitcake is a set of catchy and melodic songs. It lacks a certain depth, though. This is something that the artist may wish to explore and embrace, as she certainly has strong skills as a vocalist. Overall, the project tries too hard: sweet as Christmas candy, but relying heavily on production and a bit lacking in art and substance. It is too slick, and too obviously commercial, to the point of seeming disingenuous. There is momentary redemption on this EP with the  standout song “cindy lou who”, where Carpenter emotes honestly and without adornment. This song contains a stunning, beautiful arrangement, and a depth that is absent from the rest of the EP. It is beautiful, but is not enough to save the listener from the overall sugar rush. It’s still worth a spin, though.

Teddy Pendergrass
This Christmas (I’d Rather Have Love)
Craft Recordings
November 9, 2023

Originally released in September, 1998, This Christmas (I’d Rather Have Love) turns 25 this year. The ravages of time have had little effect on this brilliant album from R&B soul singer Teddy Pendergrass, the multi-platinum solo performer, and former lead vocalist with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes. This recording is still uplifting, smooth as silk, and funky as hell.

Stylistically diverse, and beautifully arranged and mastered, it is difficult to find fault with this recording. While it is a product of its times, it derives inspiration from a variety of black music styles of the late 20th century. From the soulful production of “Joy To the World”, complete with gospel choir, to the soaring, African-tinged “Little Drummer Boy”, and the R&B soul croon of “Christmas and You”, and “I Won’t Have Christmas”, Pendergrass expresses his art with class and soul. The urban funk and hip hop celebration of “Having A Christmas Party” and “Happy Kwanzaa” give this collection additional depth, and Pendergrass’ cover of John and Yoko’s “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)” is just stunning.

If you have not had the pleasure, you need to check out This Christmas (I’d Rather Have Love). It is the perfect soundtrack for your classy holiday cocktail or dinner party, or for an intimate tête-à-tête.

Mark Tremonti
Christmas Classics New and Old
PFA Media/Marketing
October 27, 2023

The Christmas crooner tradition is alive and well over at Mark Tremonti’s place. The singer/guitarist, most popularly associated with the rock acts Creed and Alter Bridge, has created something special with the album Christmas Classics New and Old.

Tastefully produced, and executed with skill, love and sincerity, this album is a holiday treat. Featuring extraordinary arrangements by producer Carey Deadman, the songs in this collection respect the songs, be they sacred or secular. Fun favourites like “Jingle Bells” and “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town”, juxtaposed with Tremonti’s dramatic take on “The First Noel” strike a perfect balance. Of special note is the sole original song on the album, Tremonti’s own “Christmas Morning”, which fits in nicely.

Tremonti’s voice absolutely soars on Christmas Classics New and Old, giving a fresh voice and approach to the genre. This is a great recording, guaranteed to warm the heart of the grinchiest Grinch. Go listen  now!

Fred Schneider & the Superions
Destination…Christmas!
HHBTM Records
November 17, 2023

As a hardworking editor at Spill Magazine remarked when Fred Schneider & the Superions’ album came across his desk, “Now it’s Christmas!” Truer words were never spoken. Though it was first released in 2010, Destination…Christmas! from the B-52s front man (and company) is still a breath of fresh air in the crush of holiday releases.

Showcasing brilliant and understated synth backing from the Superions, and Schneider’s unmistakable voice, this album is in a class all its own. With memorable cuts like “Fruitcake”, “Christmas Conga”, and “Teddy and Betty Yeti”, Destination…Christmas! is wonderfully weird.

Dig into this one – everyone will discover a favourite. Guaranteed to ramp up your lame holiday party’s hip factor.

2023 CHRISTMAS SINGLES

Lisa Loeb & Rob Morrow
“Shake Things Up”
Furious Rose Productions
December 1, 2023

Chock full of fun, “Shake Things Up” is a bluesy, roots-based pop song, written and performed by the seemingly unlikely duo of Lisa Loeb and Rob Morrow. The song’s simple message of having fun, cutting loose, and enjoying the holidays, make it a definite standout this season. The way the story is told, Loeb and Morrow casually talked about the possibility of co-writing a song, and within a few weeks, the idea became a reality.

With a crackerjack backing band, the chemistry between these two performers is strong. Lisa Loeb is her reliably lovely, tuneful, charming self, and Rob Morrow is a surprisingly strong vocalist from the Boz Scaggs/Billy Vera ‘school’ of blues singing. “Shake Things Up” is a great song, and this energetic recording is simply too much fun. Enjoy!

Serena Ryder
“I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus”
ArtHaus Music
November 17, 2023

Serena Ryder’s Christmas release “I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus” is an updated of the old song “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”, with a lyrical twist. Ryder notes that this version contains “lyrics that open it up and make it more inclusive for everyone today to enjoy. Daddy Kissing Santa is a nod to the fact that many of our households look different today than they did when the original was released in the 1950s.”

The altered lyrics are not the only refreshing change here. The song begins dramatically, with a simple single-note guitar figure that launches gently into the main theme, featuring a bossa nova rhythm and shimmering electric guitar. The production is actually quite sparse but lovely, with Ryder’s distinctive and clear, emotive voice taking centre stage. You’re going to love this.

Dirty Hurricane
“Christmas Is Coming”
Independent
October 11, 2023

Strap in and hang on! Dirty Hurricane has blown into town with a seasonal song that is true to their ‘rock & country on steroids’ ethos. From the locked-in rhythm, and guitar dominance of the intro, this band clearly means business. Singer/songwriter JC Orr is in fine voice here, giving one of the most impassioned roadhouse vocal performances this side of the Jersey shore.

“Christmas Is Coming” is rollicking good fun, and is served well by the unity of the band’s sound. I was not convinced of the ‘yeah yeah yeahs’ in the chorus, at first, but they’re starting to grow on me. Crank it up and pass the eggnog!

Walk Off The Earth
“Wonderful Christmastime”
RPMpromotion/Walk Off The Earth
November 7, 2023

Trust our friends in Walk Off The Earth to take an iconic holiday pop song like Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime”, and truly make it their own. Gone is the synthy pop shimmer of the original version. Using acoustic instruments and intimately miked, layered vocals, the band has created something new and interesting. While maintaining the integrity of the original song’s melody and harmonies, Walk Off The Earth manages to give the feeling of homey calm and holiday excitement, all at once. Such a pleasure to the ears! Play. Repeat. Enjoy.

The Lumineers
“Deck The Halls”
Decca Records
December 1, 2023

The Lumineers have released a stunning version of the ancient carol “Deck The Halls” in aid of the organization ‘Backline’, which works to connect music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness providers. Plaintive and stark, and featuring Wesley Schultz’ vocal and piano, this joyful song of celebration is not as you remember it. Gone is the upbeat rhythm and dancing melody. The tempo has been altered and the tune, while it has not changed, flows slowly over the melancholy piano. It is a genius move, juxtaposing the well-known Christmas song against a somber arrangement. The result is remarkable.

Villagers Ft. Lisa Hannigan
“The Little Drummer Boy”
Domino Records
November 27, 2023

One of the most beautiful gifts to the world this Christmas 2023 is from Conor O’Brien, the artist better known as ‘Villagers’. This haunting recording starts simply, featuring O’Brien’s vocal, acoustic guitar, and Hammond B-3 organ. Things build with the addition of bass and drums, and Lisa Hannigan’s warm and richly powerful vocal in verse two. Drama increases. Dynamics build. Vocal harmonies shine. O’Brien and Hannigan’s voices weave throughout ensuing verses. Angels sing.

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