Soundtrack for the holiday season

Album cover for Slow Club’s Christmas, Thanks for Nothing

1. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by Slow Club

This dazzling rendition of the Christmas classic is a sure-to-please opener for any ugly sweater party playlist.

2. Little Saint Nick by The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys deliver their signature harmonies in this classic holiday bop. Over the last 50 years, it has become almost a theme song for the jolly man himself.

3. The First Noel by Bright Eyes

Bright Eyes transforms this holiday classic into a hushed ballad that sonically resembles a warm campfire on a frigid night.

4. Two-Headed Boy by Neutral Milk Hotel

While not traditionally associated with Christmas, this high-energy solo performance is a reminder for listeners to reflect on their places in the world.

5. Fairytale of New York by Rostam

A Precedent favorite, Rostam recently performed this cover of the ‘80s song by The Pogues for Spotify, and it holds the same amount of power as the original.

6. Maybe This Christmas by Ron Sexsmith

While this song by Ron Sexsmith would only get a 6/10, it is fine enough to make the list. Every holiday playlist needs filler.

7. Happy Xmas (War is Over) by John and Yoko/Plastic Ono Band

John Lennon’s 1971 Christmas song includes elements of both hope and protest, making it relevant each year during the holidays.

8. Christmas Treat by Julian Casablancas

This driving song will satisfy fans of Christmas, treats, and indie-rock, entertaining those who have wondered what a festive song from The Strokes would sound like.

9. Joy to the World by Sufjan Stevens

This Christmas highlight from Sufjan Stevens offers a moment of mellow beauty to the playlist, complete with jingle bells and soaring harmonies.

10. Krampus by Houndmouth

With its heavy half time feel and its simple refrain, this song stands as a straightforward, feel-good conclusion to a holiday playlist, telling partygoers that it may be time to “come home.”