The Suburban Sprawl Holiday Compilation

For twelve years (2001-2013), we here at Suburban Sprawl Music gathered up heaping helpings of totally sweet holiday music from our extended circle of friends, and gave it all away for free online. If you're here looking for the 2014 edition of our annual holiday compilation, you've likely noticed that there isn't one - we're finally closing up shop.

If your holiday season just isn't complete without our weird bespoke internet holiday music, I have good news. Our fearless leader, Zach Curd, has put together a final trip down memory lane, highlighting one song from each of the 12 compilations and adding some delicious behind-the-scenes commentary.

Before you dig into Zach's timeline below, we want to thank you for stopping by each December and downloading all of our nutty holiday music. Our gratitude to all of the musicians who have contributed songs over the years is endless. Rest assured, we're going to continue keeping everything online for the sake of history.

Happy Holidays!

2002

'Christmas In Hollis'

by Thunderbirds Are Now!

The first comp was pulled together by the small group of core people involved with Suburban Sprawl at the time - it was basically made for our own enjoyment at that point. Distributed via CD-Rs with webstore orders and at shows. In my mind this was at the zenith of *Detroit Rock*, so I don't think anyone outside of us and our friends cared at all.

"Christmas In Hollis" is the only proper Thunderbirds contribution to these comps. Scott Allen's synth sounds like a dinosaur crying and it is relentless. Just a constant dinosaur cry throughout, which is hilarious.

2003

'Canadian Christmas'

by The Morissettes

This was the first year everything was available for free download too. The circle of contributors got a little bigger in 2003, but again, Detroit was still in Sire Records-mode, so no one really cared about this one either.

This is a song by a guy named Joe Ging (living in Arizona at the time), who was a friend of Fabian Halabou (The Silent Years). I'm including this because Joe did this song with his friend Nate, who sings the track. At the time Nate was in a band called The Format in Arizona. Many years later, Nate started the band Fun., and won Grammys and stuff. I love that the "We Are Young" guy is on here singing some jacked-up song about Canada.

2004

'My Uncle Ruined Christmas Again'

by The Nephews Featuring Uncle Jerk

2004 might be my favorite comp. There are lots of fun songs on this one. I'm picking this song because it kind of ushered in the "fake bands" (one-off collaborations between people) era, which became a popular thing for folks to do in subsequent years.

"The Nephews" are Dave Lawson, Eddie Baranek and myself. "Uncle Jerk" is Augie Vissochi, who we somehow convinced to come over to Dave's and do a rap, in character, as a scummy uncle. "Get away from the door" is such a spot-on weird uncle thing to say, so obviously Augie nailed it.

Also of-note is that 2004 had contributions from solidly "rock" people like Eddie, Augie, Tony DeNardo, and Scott Harrison, so I took that as evidence of Suburban Sprawl entering the Detroit cultural milieu. Motorcityrocks.com also wrote about it which seemed like a big deal at the time.

2005

'I Believe In Santa'

by The Paincakes

Up to 28 songs in 2005. Adam Kempa has taken over running things from our friend Erik, with Javelins being the flagship band of the "2nd era" of Suburban Sprawl. Those Transatlantics, El Boxeo, The Pop Project and The Recital were the other active bands at the time.

Recording The Paincakes song each year was excuse for some of us to get together and record a fake hardcore song with Erik (label founder) "singing." This was the only year I wasn't a Paincakes member (I probably had school or something?). Erik, Adam Kempa, Chris Ostafinski from The Recital, Ryan Allen, and Marty Smith from Thunderbirds. This is my favorite Paincakes track. Those guitar-monized chugs at the end are a delight. A delight.

2006

'Auld Lang Syne'

by Chris Bathgate

Another solid year. We started seeing lots of downloads by 2006, with many Christmas Music blogs writing about it. Did you know Christmas Music blogs exist? They do. This was the first year we had a significant audience outside of Michigan.

I'm picking Chris Bathgate's version of "Auld Lang Syne" simply because it's gorgeous. While not a Christmas song, we had always advertised the comp as a "Holiday" album, so it fit in. Shoutout to Chris Bathgate. Nice guy.

2007

'Santa Claus Blew Right Through Town'

by Adam Kempa

2007 was insane because right after we put the comp up online, it got a feature on Boing Boing (popular blog for nerds), and our little site caved under the ensuing web traffic. A few hours later, things were back up and running and the comps found a very large audience across the world every year after that. Shoutout to Boing Boing.

Adam Kempa faithfully recorded versions of songs from The Ventures Christmas album most years, but sometimes he would take liberties with the songs. This one is a nice example of his Christmas-surf-skills.

2008

'Christmas Vacation'

by Blasé Splee

2008 was a strong year, the first year of the Suburban Sprawl/Quack merger, and I was driving the label.

Blasé Splee went all-out for this song. It's really well done, and I never get sick of listening to it.

2009

'Left Alone On Christmas Day'

by Mumpsy

Increasing word-of-mouth among musicians resulted in a staggering amount of contributions by 2009. This is very petty, but I would say 2009 was the year putting these comps out officially became a pain in the ass due to the of the amount of database/encoding involved.

Often I would get all of the songs up in their proper places, metadata consistent, artwork uploaded etc, and some band would write and say, "Oh hey man we sent you the wrong mix of our masterpiece. Can you switch it out with THIS mp3?" Bands. Jesus.

Mumpsy was a band from Orlando, Florida that randomly sent in a song, and I just love it. Really nicely done Elephant Six-ish pop. I wonder whatever happened to Mumpsy.

2010

'Maybe This Christmas'

by Fireworks

When a bigger band would send in a song, word would eventually get around on that band's fan message boards/tumblrs, which were funny to read. Stuff like, "OMG FIREWORKS HAS A CHRISTMAS SONG ON THIS WEBSITE. Who knows who any of these other bands are though. They mostly suck."

I really love Dave Mackinder's singing voice and this song has some cool whistling.

2011

'A Very Frugal Xmas'

by Passalacqua & Doc Illingsworth

If I was a fan, I would bug musicians I didn't know personally to do songs for the comp, which sometimes worked, and sometimes not. I contacted Passalacqua and they very graciously did a song. Doc Illingsworth's verse here is awesome. I can count all three guys as friends now, which is a nice by-product of putting together these things.

2012

'Coming Back'

by The Kickstand Band

The Kickstand Band are the best band in Michigan. I'm such a fan that it really felt like an honor to be their label. I cannot say enough good things about them as musicians and people. They are on another level.

2013

'Mistletoe'

by Blaire Alise & The Bombshells

The last year of the comps! By 2013 we had noticed fewer contributions coming in. I'm glad we decided to end things on-top and not drag things out for another 20 years.

Quack shot a music video for Blaire Alise, and so that was the impetus for us asking her to send in a song. I'm really glad she sent this in. Just a nice track, with nice harmonies and a good energy. That is a very dad-ish thing to say but I am a dad now so that is how I roll without apology.

 

2013

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Angela Ficorelli

1
'Hooray For Santy Claus'
by The Kickstand Band
The Kickstand Band open up this year's collection with this old standard from 1964's Santa Claus Conquers The Martians.
2
'Cluck Old Christmas'
by Melissa And The Yule Loggers
Melissa And The Yule Loggers (James Anthony, Mike Smith, Dave Lawson) tracked this Christmas song mostly live, which is a feat that old timey Christmas musicians used to do back before Christmas computers.
3
'This Time Of Year'
by Javelins
Do u hear what I hear? The slammin & jammin' elves of Javelins got together to tip tip tip their Christmas hats to the "Sounds and Visions" of today, tomorrow and forever. May sweet joy and love explode over all who dwell in the candy cane forests of the greater Detroit area.
4
'Xmas Eve'
by Songs From The Moon
What Christmas song is complete without a Ferndale reference? That is the issue Songs From The Moon sought to address with their contribution.
5
'Open For Christmas'
by The Next Door Neighbors
This year, The Next Door Neighbors (Darin and Dave) enlisted the help of Christian Doble (sax), Adam Kempa (drums) and Kristin von Bernthal (backup vocals) to accomplish their maniacal goal of complete Christmas domination.
6
'Jesus Came From Heaven'
by Love Axe
"Love can be a weapon," Love Axe sing as they lovingly destroy your mind with some Christmas truth about our main man Jeezus.
7
'The Christmas Waltz'
by Zach Curd
The best song on each year's collection is always whatever Zach Curd creates with his beautiful mind. Strong, talented, tall, handsome, blurb-writing Zach Curd. What a guy, that perfect person.
8
'Martian Kids Need Santa Too!'
by PreciseHero
PresciseHero has been a welcome mainstay on these compilations over the past few years. Instead of breaking out the Christmas raps this year, he decided to treat you to tasty instrumental. It sounds like it might be from the future. Is PreciseHero the next John Titor? Listen and find out.
9
'Feel The Frost'
by Arranged Marriage
Arranged Marriage hit you, a British army officer, about the face demanding satisfaction this Christmas. The only way to settle this is by duel. OH NO YOU HAVE TO LEAVE TOWN U KILLED AN OFFICER OF THE BRITISH ARMY IN THE DUEL HAHAHA JK WE PUT A FAKE BULLET IN UR GUN HOLLAAAAA THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS IN BARRY LYNDON.
10
'Mistletoe'
by Blaire Alise & The Bombshells
Newcomers Blaire Alise & The Bombshells require four things this Christmas. 1) Hot cocoa 2) Snow 3) A light dimmer 4) You under the mistletoe for some CHRISTMAS SMOOCHIES. Seems pretty cut and dry to us.
11
'Christmas Day'
by Jeff Litman
Another newcomer, Jeff Litman decided to give you this super nice cover of The Beach Boys for Christmas. Oh what did you get Jeff? A GameStop gift card? Cool. Gonna get him some pokemonssssss.
12
'The Death Of Dr. Christmas'
by The Bobby Electric
The Bobby Electric cooked up this original holiday tune, which sounds like Modest Mouse, Ween and maybe like Deftones at a Christmas dinner party all eating from the same holiday gumbo? Yummmmieeee.
13
'One More Sleep Till Christmas'
by Leann Banks
Leann Banks is the first person to cover this song for us! Unreal! A very welcome addition to our holiday arsenal.
14
'Peacoats'
by Chris O.
Chris O. is no stranger to the harsh winds of Christmas time. He has come prepared with a coat originally worn by sailors of European (and later, American) navies.
15
'Christmas In Hollis'
by Carjack/Pupils
It's been 12 years since someone covered this song for us, and this combo of Carjack and Pupils do it justice. Stevyn Pivalsky is RUN, Carjack is DMC. Dave Jennings, Matt Luke, Jason Worden and Chris Krez collectively make up Jam Master Jay (RIP).
16
'I Just Want Your Love (4 Christmas)'
by Timmy Tumble
Athens, Georgia's Timmy Tumble get credit for coining the term "marine sub" in this Steppenwolf-esque Christmas freakout.
17
'Christmas Day'
by Allan James
AJ decided to flip the script, go crazy, and record a heartfelt down-tempo holiday song this year. Just kidding. This is AJ's FORTE BRO AND HE EXCELS AT IT.
18
'Be A Good Boy'
by Turn To Crime
Turn To Crime are newcomers to the comp this year and they are also responsible for you picturing Lou Reed in a Santa Cap right now.
19
'The Most Wonderful Day Of The Year'
by Jeremy Porter & The Tucos
In recent years, Jeremy and his Tucos have become a welcome recurring cast member in the TV show that is these holiday comps. Think more Chandler, less Marcel The Monkey.
20
'Please Come Home For Christmas'
by Six And The Sevens
Six And The Sevens need you to come home this Christmas. You have been out at the bar far too long without checking in and that is total crap. How dare you, you selfish person.
21
'On Xmas'
by The Tinsel Singers
The Tinsel Singers decided to crack open the holiday beer that is this cover of a little known, much loved degenerate carol originally performed by the band Dog Latin.
22
'The '59 Sound'
by Jon Cendrowski
Jon Cendrowski treats the world to a stripped-down cover of The Gaslight Anthem's "The '59 Sound." Also have you seen that video of them and Springsteen doing this song at some festival? Super good.
23
'Argue Around The Holidays (Silent Night)'
by I_R.J.
I_R.J. collected all of the Christmas jewels and spent them on R&D for the greatest Christmas machine ever built. The results? Listen for yourself.
24
'Warmer Days Ahead'
by The Kind Parts
Unsure of who The Kind Parts are, but The Kind Parts covered Lightning Love's "Warmer Days Ahead" and it's just a nice little ditty to mend your cold and broken Christmas heart.
25
'The Government Don't Get Shit For Christmas'
by ScreechGING Weasel
ScreechGING Weasel get right to the heart of the matter this year. NO MONEY FOR THE BAD BOYS.
26
'Good King Sacrilege'
by The Oscillating Fan Club
The Oscillating Fan Club decided to create a version of "Good King Wenceslas" as interpreted by like Albert Ayler or like Black Flag? Whatever it is, it's cool.
27
'The Paincakes Sell Out'
by The Paincakes
America's Favorite Band recorded your deepest childhood memories. This is weird.
 

2012

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Angela Ficorelli

1
'This Christmas'
by In Fact
Newcomers In Fact kick off this year's comp with a nice take on Donny Hathaway's now-classic holiday jam.
2
'Coal Man'
by Dave Lawson
No, it's not a Sam & Dave parody. Dave takes on the role of a ruthless coal magnate. Somebody has to.
3
'Christmas For Cowboys'
by The Fencemen
The Fencemen tackle Christmas from the cowboy's point of view. Kind of like those Prairie Home Companion bits, but good and about Christmas.
4
'Happy B-Day J.C.'
by Andy Dick & Willie Wisely
Merry Christmas from LA's Andy Dick (Yes, that Andy Dick) and Willie Wisely. Freaky organ sounds on this one. Freaky.
5
'December Babies Get The Birthday Shaft'
by Arranged Marriage
Arranged Marriage speak for all of the December babies out there. Scott's birthday is December 15th. He likes rum. Brad likes rum too.
6
'Christmas Card'
by Lawnmower
Lawnmower break out a Jimmy Eat World cover for Christmas. You're welcome.
7
'If I Had My Selfish Way'
by Love Axe
Oakland, California's Love Axe just want some peace, doesn't matter if the peace is large or small. Also they would like their house in Oakland not to be overrun with toxic mold, which is why this song was mixed by Brad of Arranged Marriage. Merry Christmas!
8
'Let It Snow'
by Zach Curd
Zach fights global warming with this holiday classic. I guess it can still snow when there is global warming but whatever. Let it snow.
9
'Somerset Solo'
by Sylvan Lanes
Sylvan Lanes is Matt Milia from Frontier Ruckus. This is sort of a hybrid folk rap with all of Matt's trademark vivid imagery and none of the lameness that you find in other folk rappers. Also Matt is feuding with another folk rapper and it is getting bad. RIP Matt Milia.
10
'Jinglebell Jingle'
by Chris O.
Chris O. slams the basketball of life through the hoop of Christmas with this nasty jingle. BOOMSHAKALAKA.
11
'White Christmas'
by Panic & Sharon
Panic and his wife Sharon recently welcomed their first child into the world. Let's congratulate them by listening to this classy as hell rendition of "White Christmas."
12
'Holiday Song'
by Matthew And The Mainstream
Matthew needed some holiday inspiration, and he got it. It's that's time of year, that time of the night, and he aims to please.
13
'Coming Back'
by The Kickstand Band
Damn Gina, don't you know it's Christmas? The Kickstand Band do, and they are COMING BACK to let you know that very fact.
14
'The Greatest Gift'
by Desktop
Desktop haven't made music in a few years, but Keith is in Russia right now, and that is very close to the North Pole, and so they decided to get the old internet collaboration back together to channel those Santa vibes. Cool.
15
'Wooden Skis'
by Timothy Monger
We haven't heard from Tim since 2005. This year he lays down a really pretty instrumental. You see, since 2005, Tim has completely lost the ability to sing. Just kidding.
16
'Tell Me What I Am (A Letter To Santa From A Regular Guy)'
by The Next Door Neighbors
GOOD OR BAD? The Next Door Neighbors need to know. "Tell me what I am!" they cry each night before bed.
17
'Mean Mr. Frost'
by The Tinsel Singers
The Tinsel Singers want you to know that Mean Mr. Frost sleeps in the park and shaves in the dark trying to save paper.
18
'Christmas Ain't Like Christmas Anymore'
by John Nelson And The New Girlfriends
John Nelson and his New Girlfriends tackle this Kitty Wells holiday smacker. "What's a holiday smacker?" you ask? Ask John.
19
'Christmas In A Country Vein'
by From The Future
From The Future decided to totally FLIP THE SCRIPT this year. They flipped the country script y'all.
20
'I'd Like You For Christmas'
by Avila
Avila is a new project from Daniel and Brie Stoner. They are simple folks, Dan and Brie. Their only Christmas wish? Why, it's you.
21
'Wishlist 198X'
by PreciseHero
Look, any Christmas song with a Ninja Turtles reference can't be bad. Hero proves the point.
22
'Song For Santa'
by Miranda Zeiger
Miranda Zeiger of LA's The Gajillionaires sings a sweet song for Santa. Santa's favorite genre? Singer-songwriter. This worked out splendidly.
23
'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen'
by Allan James
AJ covers Pedro The Lion's treatment of this sneaky holiday sulker. The result? An even more classic, holiday classic. Double classic.
24
'Big Yule Log Boogie/Santa Claus Boogie'
by Duende!
Duende! decided to double-down on the boogie this year, with a medley of covers. Jon Spencer and Hasil Adkins, respectively. Double down on the boogie with Detroit's Duende!.
25
'Every Christmas Rose Has Its Thorn'
by Greatest American Beekeeper
Greatest American Beekeeper demonstrate that any song can be a Christmas song, if you just lyrically throw some Christmas on that sucker.
26
'Little Drummer Boy'
by The Bobby Electric
The Bobby Electric are newcomers to the comp this year, and we're glad because somebody had to bring the rock to the Christmas party. We were plum out of the rock and they brought the rock.
27
'Christmas Trip For Two'
by Timmy Tumble
Athens, Georgia's Timmy Tumble just dosed you this year for Christmas. We're sorry it happened that way, but just go with it and you might learn something about yourself. It will last 6-12 hours depending on the strength of the dose.
28
'Christmas In Jail'
by Grind Scheme
Grind Scheme may be newcomers in name to this year's comp, but the band features Elle, who has been a loyal contributor in the past. We're glad to see that jail hasn't softened her commitment to independent music.
29
'New Year's Reprieve'
by Regretters
Lansing's Regretters just received word that they have been allowed a stay of Christmas execution. Oh, joyous day. They shall live.
30
'Silver Bells'
by Jeremy Porter & The Tucos
Jeremy Porter & The Tucos sing of Silver Bells. Long ago, Jeremy and his Tucos were known as expert silversmiths. The silversmith trade afforded them connections with a cross-section of Boston society, which would serve them well when they became active in the American Revolution.
31
'When You're Living In L.A.'
by Sunil Sawani
Sunil lives in LA now. We can't be certain but Christmastime in LA seems like it would be totally weird. Sunil? Is it totally weird? Let us know.
32
'Christmas Lights'
by Woodman
Detroit's golden band, Woodman, spread cheer as brightly as the lights they sing of. Don't believe us? Hang out with any Woodman for any amount of time and you'll know what we're talking about.
33
'Lies About Saint Nick'
by The Bell Beat
The Bell Beat want you to know that the world is full of lies about Saint Nick. For example, did you know that he did not double the deficit of the North Pole since he took office? That is one of many lies spread about Saint Nick that the opposition trumpets every day.
34
'Grass Stained Gown'
by I_R.J.
R.J. makes music exclusively on his iPhone for the I_R.J. project. This year he has decided to tackle "Green Sleeves/What Child Is This?" Is R.J. man or machine? You be the judge.
35
'Kringle Kringle'
by Flip Flop
This is Flip Flop's first recorded song. He has MANY yet to be recorded (hopefully soon-to-be recorded) turn of the millennium influenced nonsensical crunk rap songs. Flip Flop is a diva. He likes girls, cell phones, and animal skins. and other stuff.
36
'The Ramadan Song'
by Sadam Andler
No one knows who Sadam Andler is, but he must be a truly magical man.
37
'Feliz Navidad'
by The Spaincakes
2012 brought a new chapter in the saga of pain. SPAIN. Spanish pain.
 

2011

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Trevor Naud

1
'It's Christmas Behave Yourself'
by Lightning Love
If Lightning Love had one wish this holiday season, it would be for you to behave yourself for heaven's sake. Is that too much to ask? Apparently so. Hm. So be it, you scoundrel.
2
'A Very Frugal Xmas'
by Passalacqua & Doc Illingsworth
First timers Passalacqua & Doc Illingsworth speak the gospel about the world of gifts.
3
'Getting Into The Christmas Spirits'
by The Next Door Neighbors
Upon hearing or realizing that the New Edition Christmas album was simply no good, The Next Door Neighbors quickly assembled to record the greatest New Jack Christmas song of all time.
4
'Home Alone'
by The Kickstand Band
The Kickstand Band pay awesome tribute to John Williams, family movies and graphic violence.
5
'Sleigh Ride Invincibility Star'
by Joe Hawley
Tally Hall's Joe Hawley gets a Star, becomes Invincible Joe. Joe becomes temporarily invulnerable to all damage, except to hazards that would normally be fatal, regardless of powerups (lava, pits, time-over, getting crushed, etc).
6
'All My Dumb Dreams'
by Andrew Dost And The Heapin' Helpings
When Andrew Dost isn't playing with his band, fun., he's busy having the dumbest dreams ever concieved.
7
'Holidays'
by Zach Curd
Zach bought himself a mandolin this year for Christmas
8
'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence'
by Cale Parks
Cale Parks is thankfully a regular of our compilations at this point. This year we're treated to a tasteful Ryuichi Sakamoto cover.
9
'War On Christmas'
by Love Axe
Oakland, California's Love Axe take the "demystification of religion" approach to the holidays, previously and masterfully applied by Mt. Pleasant, Michigan's Love Axe.
10
'Ho Ho Ho!'
by Arranged Marriage
Little known fact about Arranged Marriage. Each year, Scott & Brad get together and reenact that one Fruity Pebbles Christmas commercial with the Flintstones.
11
'The Fixings'
by Glossies
Glossies wanna know if you're finished with those sweet potatoes. They love the fixins.
12
'Beliefs'
by Allan James
Curious what Allan James believes in? Let's break it down: truth, justice, freedom, beers, buds, boots.
13
'Lost Claus'
by Johnny Headband
Johnny Headband travelled into the heart of Africa to find the missing Dr. Claus. Upon finding Dr. Claus, the Headbandeliers reportedly asked, "Dr. Claus, I presume?"
14
'The Night Will Come'
by Daniel
Dan's song features his friends and loved ones guesting on it, ranging from ages 8 to 88. Pretty cool idea. Even cooler? Having Frosty The Snowman bust out a guest rappity rap.
15
'Holiday Road'
by Deadbeat Beat
Deadbeat Beat are the first act to cover this song in our 10 year history. Isn't that weird? Hey what are Deadbeat Beat's favorite color of Christmas lights? White lights that give off white heat. Hardy har har.
16
'It's Different For Elves'
by PreciseHero
Hero is just trying to get out of work at a decent hour like the rest of us. You think Santa is a good employer? He's not.
17
'The Christmas Song (Live From The Judy Garland Show)'
by Panic & Sharon
PAN!C & Sharon are newly married, which of course allows for time travel. Hence, we're able to hear this beautiful rendition of "The Christmas Song" live from the Judy Garland show.
18
'Trapped In The Chimney'
by Timmy Tumble
Athens, Georgia's Timmy Tumble knows that blockages in chimneys occur for a variety of reasons. Take, for example, a normal fireplace flue. If this flue was not capped by a chimney cap, it was be extremely easy for birds, squirrels, or other critters to climb into the chimney bringing large amounts of nesting materials with them. This nesting material can completely block your flue, preventing the chimney from drafting properly.
19
'Christmas Last Year'
by Dr. Daddy
Dr. Daddy are Seattle's Zach Norton & Greg Franklin. Christmas last year was a sonic adventure with fuzz pedals.
20
'Jesus Was A Gangsta'
by MC Rallz
Ryan Allen (Destroy This Place) tracked this hip hop holiday slammer while his newborn baby peacefully slept next to him. Little known fact about Ryan's son: he is Jesus.
21
'You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch'
by Lettercamp
Oh please, check out Lettercamp's treatment of this Dr. Seuss classic. Thurl Ravenscroft on synth.
22
'These People Aren't Your Friends, Santa (Claus)'
by Sunil Sawani
Look, Santa, are you here to make friends or win? Sunil wants you to know that you're not here to make friends. You're here to win.
23
'Santa (Likes Goin' Down Chimneys)'
by The Paincakes
We'd like to think the trend of Paincakeification of popular song is the start of a career renaissance for The Paincakes.
24
'Greyhound Bus On Christmas Day'
by A Lady Never Tells
Ever been on a bus on Christmas day? Sunil & Laura of A Lady Never Tells Have, and it's saddest thing of all time. Not really, that distinction belongs to those animal abuse commercials with the Sarah MacLaughlan song.
25
'Christmas With You'
by Woodman
Detroit's Woodman family really hope to spend this Christmas with you. They understand you are busy. They understand that you can't ask for all of the time off in the world. Whatever you can do they will appreciate.
26
'Song For Tim Wieland'
by Fur Department
Jason Bales & Tim McCarty are the Fur Department. "Pine Trees" is their safe word.
27
'Candyman'
by Isosceles Mountain
Would you expect anything less from a perfect mountain? No, no you wouldn't.
28
'Li River Burial'
by Flatfoot
Here comes Flatfoot, here comes Flatfoot, right down Flatfoot lane. The dudes once traveled down a jungle river to kill Capt. Kristopher Kringle, who had gone mad with power. Things got real weird real fast. Elf heads on pikes. Horror.
29
'December 25 1967'
by The Bell Beat
On the night of December 25th, 1967, The Bell Beat performed at The North Pole for the very first time. The North Pole concert on December 25 was record breaking and one of the most famous concert events of its era. It set records for attendance and revenue generation. Promoter Santa Claus said, "Over 55,000 people saw the Bell Beat at The North Pole. We took $304,000, the greatest gross ever in the history of show business."
30
'Drunken Christmas Waltz'
by Michigan Kids
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission allows the sale of alcoholic beverages until 11:59 p.m. on December 24 and after 12:00 p.m. on December 25.
31
'Facts Regarding The Great Halifax Explosion Of 1917 And Its Effects On The Official Christmas Tree Of The City Of Boston'
by Greatest American Beekeeper
Boston's Greatest American Beekeeper have given you a song version of Wikipedia.
32
'Christmas Night Of The Hunter'
by French Method
French Method is Nicole Allie. Scott Davidson plays guitar. If you're curious about the French Method, it involves hooks.
33
'Very First Christmas'
by Jack & The Bear
Let Ohio's Jack & The Bear captivate you with tales of the very first Christmas, which very few people know actually happened in Toledo.
34
'Bed, Bath & Beyond'
by Buffay (feat. James Linck)
This is Buffay. Self explanatory, right?
35
'Old Noel'
by Zach Nichols & Natalie Bainter
Natalie Bainter and Frontier Ruckus' Zach Nichols like the old Noel better. They have all of Noel's early singles and prefer them to the more recent stuff.
36
'Left In The Cold'
by RJ
RJ is kind of like a snowman, he's better in the arctic cold than under the harsh, unforgiving heat of the desert sun.
37
'Christmas Dance'
by Jeremy Porter & The Tucos
Perhaps you've heard of the Christmas Dance. Jeremy & his Tucos have been to the Christmas Dance, and the gruesome details of the Christmas Dance will haunt your very sou
38
'Christmas Bride'
by From The Future
Again, From The Future deliver the Christmas creepiness. When did they turn into a ICP? Last year, it seems.
39
'Random Corporate Christmas'
by Joe Ging
Mr Ging was appointed a non-executive director of Christmas on 1 September 2009 and became chairman of Christmas on 1 January 2010. He is chairman of the chairman’s committee and attends the nomination and North Pole committees.
40
'Good King Wenceslas'
by Child Bite
Child Bite visits the good king, gets in bar fight with the king, chaos ensues.
 

2010

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Shawn Knight

1
'Stink, Stank, Stunk'
by Adam Kempa & Ryan Brescoe
Much like Lennon & Harrison getting together post-Beatles, Adam and Ryan Brescoe got together post-Recital and crafted this scrumptious surf tribute to the Grinch.
2
'Maybe This Christmas'
by Fireworks
Long time listeners, first time callers Fireworks have hope in their hearts that their sweet boo will come back to them this Christmas.
3
'(Not) Home For The Holidays'
by Love Axe
Chris Hatfield's Love Axe project now is a straight-up real band. This tune is about not being home for Christmas, which obviously is not cool. Not cool, dudes. Not cool.
4
'A Town Of Glass'
by Lightning Love
Come hither, let Lightning Love regale you with tales of the town of glass. Here's the deal though: don't even think about wearing your hot metal knife shoes in the town of glass. If you do that you will be banished from the town of glass.
5
'It's Christmas At The Airport Bar'
by The Cuban Mistletoe Crisis
The Cuban Mistletoe Crisis is Gordon Smith of The Sights and Nick Dufour of Superdollar. Ever been stuck at the airport on Christmas? They have, and let it be known: it is exactly the same as Christmas at your home.
6
'Oh Holy Night'
by Daniel
Daniel treats the world to a really nice version of "Oh Holy Night." Listen carefully and you can hear the sound of one million angels crying tears of absolute joy.
7
'Bah Humbug'
by The High Strung
The High Strung hate everything about Christmas. Look for their holiday-collabo track with Ugly Kid Joe in 2011.
8
'I Can See My Breath'
by PreciseHero
PreciseHero's "I Can See My Breath" might be the first time we've had a hip-hop song that wasn't a joke on these comps. Peep the Local 4 shoutout. Channel 7 sucks.
9
'A Christmas Story'
by The Next Door Neighbors
The Next Door Neighbors decided to retell the plot line of A Christmas Story and cover it in nice 60's R&B wrapping paper. How delightful. Skip Denomme (The Sights) plays the drums while wearing a snow suit.
10
'A Christmas Carol'
by Zach Curd
Zach Curd decided to retell the plot line of A Christmas Carol and cover it in nice 80's R&B wrapping paper. How delightful. Zach Curd wears a snow suit all day, every day.
11
'Christ, What An Excuse'
by Decemilybrr Gustafwind From The North Pole
"Christ, What An Excuse" is the product of Emily Gustafson let loose in Santa's workshop for the first time. She rings in the holiday madness with harmony and cheer.
12
'Christmas Bummer'
by Old Empire
Ever have everything that could go wrong on Christmas go wrong? Well, it happened to Old Empire. Truth. They turn everything around in the end though. SPOILER ALERT.
13
'The Red And The Green'
by Arranged Marriage With Tamara Finlay
Arranged Marriage and Tamara Finlay (The Thornbills) offer up this Nilsson-esque holiday rumbler for you this year. Santa just returned from his lost weekend on the south pole, and he approves.
14
'Jelly'
by Dre Babinksi & Andrew Dost
Dre Babinski (Dusty Rhodes and the River Band) and Andrew Dost (fun.) decided to go the SPOOKY CHRISTMAS route this year. Andrew did just turn goth, so that might explain it. Also of note is that Andrew sent this song to us while on tour in Europe. Note to all other musicians: Andrew is way less lazy than you.
15
'This Christmas I'm Going To Florida'
by Pan!c & Sharon
Ever been to Florida for Christmas? Pan!c and Sharon are going this year and want to know if it is a decent place to spend the holidays? Seems like it would be, but the lack of winter might be weird. Truly a tropical holiday mystery. Hm.
16
'You Don't Even Know It's Christmas'
by Greatest American Beekeeper
Boston's Greatest American Beekeeper sing about Christmas to a baby. Babies don't know what the crap Christmas is. This song also marks the first BABY SOLO in the history of these comps. BABY SOLO YA'LL!
17
'Promise Me'
by American Mars
American Mars beckon you close to their supple mouths, and demand that you remember Christmases past with a hushed whisper. What? Are you afraid of nostalgia or something? Huh, wimp? You wimp you?
18
'Christmas Break'
by The Bell Beat
The Bell Beat beckon you close to their supple mouths, and demand that you remember Christmases past with a hushed whisper. What? Are you afraid of nostalgia or something? Huh, wimp? You wimp you?
19
'Good Luck, Just Wait'
by Adam Mercer & Brook Jacoby
Adam Mercer and Brook Jacoby: punx 4 lyfe. Acoustic Christmas punx 4 lyfe.
20
'All I Want For Christmas Is A Rap Career'
by MC Rallz (Featuring Apple Chack)
MC Rallz and Apple Chack are Ryan Allen and his wife Angela. Can someone help Ryan out with a rap career for Christmas this year? Maybe P Hero can help.
21
'There's Always Tomorrow'
by The Kickstand Band
The Kickstand Band got together and recorded this cover of "There's Always Tomorrow" from the Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer Christmas Special. It should be noted that The Kickstand Band are secretly made of clay. They are also secretly reindeer.
22
'Christmas Comes Christmas Goes'
by Dave Lawson
Dave points out that Christmas comes, and yes, Christmas does go. We wish that it didn't though. We should all thank Dave for this weighty rumination on the nature of time and ritual.
23
'Santasweatlive'
by The Paincakes
Oh hey, another great idea. You're welcome, again.
24
'December Rain'
by ChrisMas
Chris O (The Recital) did this. Yep. Imagine Chris recording the vocals to this all alone in his apartment. That is the greatest christmas image. Thanks Chris.
25
'Where I've Gone'
by Bad Boys
What a name! This Chicago trio (Bret Wallin, Lauren LoPiccolo, Ryan Germaine) crafted this very specific holiday tune and we couldn't be more thankful. Bret says, "Hypothetically, you've named your car 'Miles'... and then hypothetically, it breaks down and you get SEASONALLY AFFECTED.) Damn son. Daaaaamn.
26
'Silent Night'
by Carjack
Carjack Claus created what we would imagine Silent Night to sound like if it was created by Carjack. That is to say it sounds like it was made by angry robot aliens.
27
'Holiday Song'
by Lawnmower
Travis Bravender and Aaron Quillen are Lawnmower. Aaron and Travis met in 1980 in Athens, Georgia. They started a band and then signed to the fledgling indie label, IRS records. They decided to go with IRS because of the creative freedom it would allow them throughout their career.
28
'Christmas From A Deadmall'
by Sylvan Lanes
Matthew Milia of Frontier Ruckus steps up solo in the dance battle that is the recollection of landmarks from your childhood.
29
'Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree'
by The Deadbeat Beat
Could The Deadbeat Beat possibly rock around the Christmas tree more? No, they could not. To rock even an ounce more would be unsafe.
30
'No One Else In The House'
by The Whoa Boats
The Whoa Boats decided to retell the plot line of Home Alone and cover it in nice wrapping paper with people screaming on it. How delightful. They wear snow suits but only at night in the club.
31
'Alexandrine'
by Millions Of Brazilians
You know sometimes when you were a kid and you would wrap a present by taping two big pieces of wrapping paper that didn't match together but somehow it worked? Millions Of Brazilians did that, but with song. Actually no, they made a sandwich in song form. Yes.
32
'No Use For Christmas'
by Jeremy Porter & The Tucos
The story of The Tucos and The Porters is the oldest feud in history of America. Thankfully, the two sides decided to cast aside their differences and record this jam for us. Very nice.
33
'All My Hours (Love Song For The Winter Solstice)'
by Finian McKean
Finian McKean used to play in The Push Kings back in the day, and now he plays in the forest on the wings of a mythical bird...wearing a santa hat.
34
'Hit The Slopes'
by The Fruiting Bodies
These guys are five guys from Livonia who all live in Seattle now and play music together. Sounds like a sitcom, but it isn't. THIS IS REAL LIFE DUDE.
35
'All I Want For Christmas Is You'
by Casey Shea
New York's Casey Shea put together this pretty number for the holidays. Casey requires nothing for Christmas, except you, and your very soul.
36
'313 Santa'
by Television City
Sounds like our kind of city! KNOWWHATIMEAN. TV is the best. Anyway, Television City is Porchsleeper's Brian Raleigh. Little known fact about Brian: he is the mayor of Television City.
37
'Away In The Manger'
by Allan James
We noticed that AJ sounds like he's lying naked on the couch while counting off this song. Don't let that freak you out, it's a good thing. Away In The Manger, AJ soothes your soul and tames your wild wild mind.
38
'Broken Hearts (I Know I Don't Want That For Christmas)'
by Société Moon
George Jacobsen and Abbey Taylor of Société Moon wrote this song which charts a period in the life of Isabella "Bella" Swan, a teenage girl who moves to Forks, Washington, and falls in love with a 104-year-old vampire named Edward Cullen. The song is told primarily from Bella's point of view, with the epilogue of Eclipse and Part II of Breaking Dawn being told from the viewpoint of character Jacob Black, a werewolf.
39
'No, '11 Doesn't Have To Be Heaven'
by Sunil Sawani
No Sunil, '11 doesn't have to be heaven, but it would nice. Right? Or no?
40
'Ghost Of Christmas Past'
by Miss N.
No her name isn't Baby, it's Miss N if you're nasty. Which you are decidedly not.
41
'Seasonal Affective Disorder'
by CoachMahler
Ol' CoachMahler, reports from the wilds of Omaha, Nebraska. Make sure to stick around until the synthesizers take everyone to heaven, Koresh-style.
42
'Christmas Creep (NSFW)'
by From The Future
Straight-up, no lie? From The Future made probably the most offensive Christmas song we've ever recieved in the history of these comps. Puts the NSFW in NSFW, so uh, remember it's not safe for work. Did we mention this is truly filthy? Because it is.
43
'The Christmas Chord'
by Zach Nichols
Frontier Ruckus' Zach Nichols doesn't provide the name of The Christmas Chord. So, for reference, The Christmas Chord is EbSus2 with an F in the bass.
44
'Oh Baby Jesus'
by Fur Department
Jason Bales and Tim McCarty combined digitally to create this ode to the crappy Christmas gifts you would give Jesus to celebrate his own birthday. I guess that would make them birthday presents? Aight.
45
'Silent Night : 80 Windows'
by Nolan Simon
Nolan (formally of Joiya) sent this pretty rendition "Silent Night" combined with a Nada Surf song. Thanks for the Christmas combo Nolan!
46
'Oh Christmas Time'
by Woodman
The family band known as Woodman are here to provide an entire family for you in case you don't have one this Christmas. Charitable!
47
'Last Christmas'
by 3773
Elle of Elle & The Fonts fame goes by 3773 for her solo work. We think that's some sort of online internet website thing maybe? Perhaps.
48
'Merry Christmas And Happy New Beers'
by Kommie Kilpatrick
Merry Christmas and Happy New Beers. This is also the remix to Ignition, hot and fresh out the kitchen. Thanks dudes.
 

2009

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Martin Smith

1
'Twas The Night Before Christmas'
by The Barrettes
The Barrettes offer up a wonderful barbershop styled holiday tune to kick off this year's comp!
2
'8 Days Of Christmas'
by From The Future
From The Future are from the future, which is a pretty intense thing to realize when you meet them. They know when you've been sleeping or awake, and when you're going to be sleeping or awake because they are prophets.
3
'Left Alone On Christmas Day'
by Mumpsy
Orlando, Florida's Mumpsy contribute this Beulah-esque pop gem to set your Christmas heart ablaze.
4
'Tannenbombs'
by Those Transatlantics
And your Christmas bird can sing? It sure can. Those Transatlantics return for the first time since 2004. What's new in 5 years? Some sweet horn action.
5
'Glossy Xmas'
by Glossies
Scott Masson (of Office) is a newcomer this year, performing as Glossies. He arrives singing sweetly, and prepared to take you to a winter meadow, the mall, or the beach. Any of them one work, really. Totally up to you.
6
'Baby, I Wish It Was Cold Outside'
by Love Axe
A gorgeous doom and gloom orchestral workout from Chris Hatfield. Also: check the musical "Peter and The Wolf" quote in this one. Nerds love stuff like that.
7
'Christmas Time Is Here'
by Pan!c & Sharon
New comers Pan!c (of Johnny Headband) and Sharon try to imagine Vince Guaraldi and Herbie Hancock gettin' freaky, Christmas style, in 6/8 time.
8
'Winter Break'
by Zach Curd
2 minutes of holiday pop punk courtesy of Mr. Curd. Remember college? Also: check the musical "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" quotes that bookend the song. Nerds love stuff like that.
9
'O Holy Night'
by Blasé Splee
A tasteful and tasty treatment of the emo-y-ist of all holiday songs. Fall on your knees, and pick up the change with XxThexX XxSpleexX.
10
'Father Christmas'
by Natural Monuments
Alec Jensen and crew cooked up this Kinks' Christmas classic for 2009. Hopefully they weren't beaten up by rogue Dickensian children afterwards.
11
'Christmas This Year'
by Allan James
When AJ croons, you better listen.
12
'S.A.N.T.A.'
by ChrisMas
Even Santa needs some motivational help this year. Bet you didn't think Chris O. would be taking on that task did you?
13
'Up On Christmas Morning'
by Provo/Howl
A mix of Javelins, Computer Perfection and Lightning Love invite you to sit around the fireplace for tales of time signature changes of yore.
14
'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas'
by Andrew Dost
Fun's Andrew Dost brings us a tasteful take of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." Check the piano to guitar transition, smooth. SMOOTH.
15
'We Wish You A Merry Christmas'
by The Amish Girls
Angela Duncan, Lisa Norton, Phil Southern and Sara Dixon are The Amish Girls. They know you're busy, so 30 seconds of Merry Christmas wishes probably seemed apt.
16
'Look What You Did, You Little Jerk!'
by Daniel Zott
Long ago, Daniel Zott asked Santa how to properly record drums. Santa delivered, and the rest is history. Also: check the musical "Jingle Bells" quote in this one. Nerds love stuff like that.
17
'Polynesian Lament'
by Adam Kempa
Adam moved to Hawaii last year, so his obsession with Polynesian culture peeks through on this epic surf tune.
18
'The World To Me'
by The Canadian Dollars
The Canadian Dollars last appeared on SSMXMAS2005, and The Canadian Dollars is Andy Thompson. Much like the Canadian Dollar, Andy has increased in value since 2005.
19
'Christmas (Pon Da Island)'
by Mon Talk
Ryan Allen, Dave Graw and Erik Maluchnik moved to Jamaica last year, so their obsession with Jamaican culture peeks through on this epic dub tune.
20
'Winter Once Again'
by Lightning Love
We were very happy to see that Lightning Love could send in a song again this year. They went the "let's sing about the season instead of the holiday" route. While bold and rare, the move was indeed a smart one.
21
'The Snowpocalypse'
by Will Yates
Dr. Yates paints a picture of a future where the earth is ravaged by a second ice age and people don't understand ice cream. Will intends on compiling his research into a powerpoint presentation entitled "An Icy and Undelicious Truth." In theaters in 2010.
22
'Santa Just Crashed Into My House And He's Drunk As Fuck'
by Arranged Marriage
Father and Son (Brad and Scott) Allen mixed some Wilburys, harmonies, rum and cursing into 2009's Christmas gumbo.
23
'Snowday'
by The Next Door Neighbors
Dave and Darin sing about the very best gift winter can bring. No, not soggy pant legs, snowdays.
24
'The Little Baby Jesus'
by American Mars
American Mars realized that Michigan economic woes, pedal steel and winter combine into a tasty SADNESS MCFLURRY.
25
'Merri Crissmiss 2 Ma Dik'
by Buffay
If you're going to do this, it's best to go all the way and pull no punches. Buffay certainly did that.
26
'Fur In Winter'
by Fawn
Crazy hybrid of Javelins / Kiddo / and The Nice Device singing about fur.
27
'Gotta Visit The In-Laws'
by The Wise Men
The Wise Men are the kind of dudes pop nerds love, and in-laws are the kind of thing pop nerds hate. Also, it's a short joke song. This is like the super soldier serum of songs for pop nerds.
28
'Last Christmasfits / Presents Dude'
by The Paincakes
The Paincakes sing christmas carols a la Glenn Danzig. God this was such a good idea. You are most welcome.
29
'Stomach Flu For Xmas'
by The Smoots
Current Brooklyn resident and Detroit ex-pat Alyse Schneider records as The Smoots. Get ready for a one wild ride through a computer!
30
'Gonna Kick Santa's Ass'
by Darius Holbert
Holiday jingle-age from Darius!
31
'Sleigh Ride'
by Buttermilk Daydream
We were told Buttermilk Daydream is an "obscure Martian Muppet band," but since that was sent by a dude in Computer Perfection, it's safe to assume Buttermilk Daydream is one of them.
32
'The New Year'
by Sh! The Octopus
Randy Bishop and crew crush your heart and soul with 100 pounds of year-end delight.
33
'How We Sing, Sing'
by Mouth Says Rawr!
Elle Sawa and Aaron Saul: like a good cup-a-nog and a smile.
34
'Jasper's Western Ride'
by Thorn Bells
Zach Nichols (of Frontier Ruckus) and Natalie Bainter treat the world to a tune about myrrh-bringing magi.
35
'Christmas In Killarney'
by The Youth Irish Fellowship Club Of Chicago
Holiday comp vet Jon Cendrowski teamed up with Sean Higgins to impersonate Irish dudes and sing about Christmas, all Irish style, all up in your Irish.
36
'Salt City Christmas'
by Flatfoot
Returning from the instrumental madness of 2008's "Sore Afraid On The Road To Bethlehem," the band brought mighty tales from the city of salt. They also brought vocals.
37
'Hannukah Blues'
by Coach Mahler
Kevin Mahler captivates a pack of his devout followers. Side effects of bearing witness to Coach Mahler include religious epiphany, hallucination and the ability to levitate.
38
'Grandma Wants Peace'
by The Wise Men
Grandma wants peace. Is that too much to ask? The Wise Men don't think so.
39
'I Want Christmas All Year Long (Not Six Months Only)'
by Sunil Sawani
Sunil is a ravishing post-modern man who documents his creative process on his website. And we just documented that. The universe. Wooooooosh.
40
'I Survived The Hazel Park Tanker Explosion Several Months Before Christmas'
by John Nelson
John survived the Hazel Park Tanker Explosion, like a true survivor, Jeff Probst style.
41
'All We Want For Christmas Is Santa'
by The Bethlehem Girls' Choir
This is the tale of five young musicians (Nicole Allie, Angela Duncan, Katie Galazka, Liz Wittman and Elle Sawa) who hiked into the Black Hills of Burkittsville, Maryland to record a song that subsequently went missing. The five were never found, although their sound equipment (along with most of the music they recorded) was discovered a year later.
42
'One Last Christmas Eve'
by Greatest American Beekeeper
These Brandeis Politics PhD candidates get all sadness-warrior on your ass. Cover your hearts, for that is what their wicked arrows doth desire.
43
'The Wreck Of The Old 1224'
by Lookout Mountain
Jason Bales records as Lookout Mountain. As a childhood kazoo prodigy, Jason was the first American kazooist to tour the former Soviet Union in 1986.
44
'You Have Been Given A Gift'
by Jaguar Medicine
Alan Scheurman now records as Jaguar Medicine. Both Al and Jaguars were seen as a symbol of power and strength in Pre-Columbian culture.
45
'30th Century Holiday Fuck Fest'
by Prussia
When the Kingdom of Prussia was established in 1701, a tremendous fun fest occurred. Nobelmen from far and wide rode great stallions through mountainous terrains to attend the fun fest. Prussia wrote a song about it, except in the future? About fucking?
46
'My Reindeer Got Drunk'
by The Wise Men
Ever seen a reindeer do a kegstand? The Wise Men have. Totally wicked.
47
'Purple Snowflakes'
by Computer Perfection
A deep cut from the Motown holiday songbook from Computer Perfection. Once the apocalypse arrives in 2012, purple snowflakes will cease to be notable.
48
'Scarf'
by Jeremy Porter
The SubSprawl holiday debut of Fidrych's Jeremy Porter. Also the SubSprawl holiday debut of scarves as a holiday song topic.
49
'Beards Scare Children (Unless They're Attached To Santa)'
by The Hard Lessons
The Hard Lessons want you to know that just because someone has a beard, it doesn't make them Santa. Truly, the hardest lesson ever learned for millions of children each year.
50
'Baby, It's Cold Outside'
by Cendro & Turk
Jon Cendrowski and Karen Turk treat the world to their version of this holiday classic. When this song was recorded, Jon was in the shower at the mall, and Karen sat on the counter in an elf costume singing along. Jon was surprised to see Karen in there, and was all like, "WHY WERE YOU IN THE MEN'S BATHROOM?" and Karen was all like, "I DIDN'T KNOW YOU WERE NAKED." True story.
51
'What Your Wish Was'
by Ian Saylor
Ian Saylor wants to know what your wish was. Not that one, that one is not cool. Yeah, the other one. That one. Yeah.
52
'Stuck In The Chimney Again'
by Darius Holbert
If you ever find yourself stuck in the chimney, just get Darius to pipe this tune up there and the song will act as a lubricant, oddly enough.
53
'Tidings (Dub)'
by The Botanists
The Botanists want you to go deep this Christmas!
 

2008

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Angela Duncan

1
'Jailhouse Angels'
by Adam Kempa
What happens when you stop getting excited about the Ventures proto-mashup holiday jams? If you are Adam Kempa, you create your own. Adam adds: "I prefer to think of this as weird Ventures fanfic."
2
'Stood Up On Christmas'
by Arranged Marriage
Scott Allen and his father, Brad, offer up this Nilsson-esque holiday ditty. Dig those samples!
3
'Third-Grader Confronting The Possibility That Santa Doesn't Exist'
by Will Yates
Will Yates is a man of invention. He has created a new genre: glitch-piano-pop, and it is good.
4
'Meet Me On Christmas Eve'
by Sea Of Japan
Sea of Japan have plans to meet you on Christmas Eve. Don't be late. They are busy dudes.
5
'What Child'
by Daniel
Reborn as DANIEL, Dan Johnson offers up a soulful version of "What Child Is This?" To answer the question, the child is Daniel, and he is a beautiful child.
6
'Le Manteau De Noel'
by Honest Men
Former Natural Monuments members Travis Bravender and Aaron Quillen team up with their friend Ashleigh New for a pretty synth-pop jam, CHRISTMAS STYLE YA'LL!!
7
'Mele Kalikimaka'
by Mr. Sprinkle's Fabulous Cupcakes
Not The Dead Bodies, but real close. HAWAIIAN CHRISTMAS STYLE YA'LL!!
8
'All I Want For Christmas Is What I Can't Take Back'
by Love Axe
Love Axe's Chris Hatfield's move to California's Bay Area hasn't hurt his holiday mojo one bit.
9
'Red Nose Leads The Parade'
by Dave Lawson
No one ever thinks about what Rudolph feels. No one cares about that guy, EXCEPT DAVE LAWSON.
10
'School's Lights'
by Em News
Em News' Trevor Naud, Kathleen Bracken and Matt Rickle return to the subsprawl holiday comp with an intergalactic holiday space hymn.
11
'A Kenberton Christmas'
by Korin, Augie, Dave, And Emily
Not only is this a collaboration between members of Serenity Court, The Pop Project and The Hard Lessons, but it is also a collaboration between roommates, which you will quickly realize while listening to this song.
12
'Wonderful Christmastime'
by Cale Parks
Cale crawled into a dark room filled with synthesizers, and emerged with his own rendition of McCartney?'s Christmas megajam.
13
'Gifting'
by Friendly Foes
Friendly Foes offer up more considerations of positivity for the holidays. You should be glad.
14
'The Ghosts Of Christmas Whenever'
by Andrew Dost
Graceful and charming holiday sentiments from subsprawl holiday vet Andrew Dost of Fun.
15
'I Saw Kwame Kissing Santa Claus (Live On Dick Hurtin's Morning Show)'
by Downriver Dan
Kevin Mahler assumes a new identity for a sizable dose of Michigan-centric insanity.
16
'Holidays'
by Lightning Love
Lightning Love laments their personal connection with Christmas. If this is the soundtrack to holiday disconnect, humanity isn't so doomed afterall.
17
'We're A Couple Of Misfits'
by Knight & Doble
Shawn (Knight) and Christian (Doble) offer up the deepest cut with a song from the Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer television special. This deep cut cuts real good.
18
'The Death of Santa's Farrier'
by Silverghost
Holiday comp newcomers, Silverghost offer up a tune that is equal parts 4AD and Phil Spector.
19
'Jolly Man'
by Zach Curd
Walk with Zach Curd into a holiday dreamworld where autotune and DeBarge meet at the Rhodes break of Minnie Riperton's "Inside My Love."
20
'Letters To Santa (From Four Real Girls)'
by The Next Door Neighbors
The Next Door Neighbors take their concept songs even further with musical interpretations of real letters sent to THE BIG MAN. Not Clarence Clemons, but Santa.
21
'Midnight Visit'
by K & Ju
K & Ju is a new and refreshing collaboration between The Word Play's Kevin McGorey and Javelins' Julian Wettlin. The result is a dreamy and frantic holiday jambo.
22
'Oh Dear'
by Kiddo
Kiddo's Lizzie and Christian wrote this together about being in love in their messy house during the holidays. Cute!
23
'Happy Xmas (War is Over)'
by Jon Cendrowski & The Nine Mile Choir
Ex-Casionaut Jon Cendrowski goes solo and brings all of Ferndale with him to cover John Lennon's holiday classic.
24
'Deadbeat Christmas'
by Everthus The Deadbeats
Indianapolis' Everthus The Deadbeats are so into Christmas, they happen to know a Christmas song featuring their namesake!
25
'Christmas Vacation'
by Blasé Splee
Blasé Splee put on their own spin on the title theme to a modern film classic. Mavis Staples has got nuthin' on these guys.
26
'Procedural Claus'
by The Paincakes
The Paincakes shed the progressive excess of the past few years and get down to what Christmas is all about: ordering Santa around.
27
'Happy Xmas (War is Over)'
by Teleportation Please
A song so nice, it's here twice! Lennon's track gets the lady/dude combo treatment this time courtesy of Teleportation Please.
28
'I Hear Angels'
by Jeremy Vallender
Beaverton, Michigan's own Jeremy Vallender hears angels. Angels sound like key changes, synthesizer polyrhythm and a voice of pure velvet.
29
'Give It To Me On Christmas'
by Superfast
Ex-Sight Bobby Emmett, the UK's own Spencer Cullum, ex-Hard Lesson Christophe Zajac-Denek team up, INTERNATIONAL STYLE YA'LL!!
30
'Jesus'
by Prussia
Prussia remind us of what Christmas is all about for some. They also remind us that The Beatles are so good.
31
'The Freudian Gift'
by Daditudes
32
'I Heard The Bells'
by Allan James & The Cold Wave
Newcomers Allan James & The Cold Wave heard the bells, and those bells are sad.
33
'Christmas Mist'
by Timmy Tumble
The Lickity-Splits' and Dark Meat's Timmy Tumble humbly offers up the only song in mono on this year's compilation.
34
'Something Something Christmas'
by Elle And The Foe
Local blogger and musician Elle decides to drop the Fonts and pick up a Foe in the form of Friendly Foes' Brad Elliot.
35
'Large Christmas'
by Eat Sleep
The Silent Years' Ryan Clancy normally plays the drums, but decided to play the heartstrings this year for you. Nay, for the world.
36
'It's A Dr. Pepper Christmas, Charlie Brown'
by Fun With Teeth
Insanity from Brandeis University faculty.
37
'Zach Curd And Santa'
by Joe Ging
Rangoon Online's Joe Ging decides decides to use his holiday song to hold Zach Curd over the hot fires of devastating satire.
38
'Christmas Surprise'
by The Magic Tones
Mystery track! We have no idea who this is, or if you could even consider this a song.
39
'Warm It Up'
by Hugs And Kisses
Few people dare to go the "I'm going to sing about winter and not just Christmas" route. Hugs And Kisses doth dare. They doth dare.
40
'Christmas Cookie Capers'
by The Cartridge Family
The Cartridge Family rolls deep in a field of Christmas cookies. Yum!
41
'Sore Afraid On The Road To Bethlehem'
by Flatfoot
Lansing's Flatfoot decided to drop the twang and go all Luke 2:9 on your ass, instrumental style this year.
42
'I'm Not As Drunk As Santa'
by The Darts
The Darts might not be as drunk as Santa, but it's a safe bet that they are more drunk than you.
43
'Christmas Death March (Manger of Death)'
by Mark Teachout, Ryan Teachout & Ian Saylor
Not The Rants, but real close. DEATH MARCH STYLE YA'LL!!
44
'Feliz Navidad De Ridiculoso'
by Oscillating Fan Club
The OFC take the reigns and ride a sled towed by 8 Latin Christmas devils.
 

2007

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Craig Horky

1
'Deck the Halls'
by Zach Curd
Zach Curd: Slowly working his way towards recording the Christmas equivalent of Gentle Giant's 'Knots.'
2
'Happy New Year'
by Love Axe (w/ Bryan Robb)
Introducing the new project by ex Army/Navy members Chris Hatfield (also formerly of Those Transatlantics) and Heath Johnson. Bryan Robb plays guitar and also co-wrote the song.
3
'Christmas Don't Be Late'
by Scott and Brad Allen
Scott (Thunderbirds Are Now!) and Brad (Thunderdads Are Brad!) revisit Chipmunks holiday classic. Dig the mandolin and laser beams solo.
4
'Santa Claus Blew Right Through Town'
by Adam Kempa
Adam Kempa spends a few days each December methodically working towards his ultimate goal of recording a complete tribute to the Ventures' Christmas album. This year's installment is more of a departure from the source material than normal, but it's only a minute long. Tough it out.
5
'Lee Winters' Last Christmas'
by Young Bison
Brooklyn's Sean Higgins and Friends sing about spite, in like, the most beautiful way.
6
'Time Goes'
by Annette Walowicz
Annette (Serenity Court) sings a plaintive finger-picked tune with backup from Matt Balcer (The Codgers) on mandolin and Emily Gustafson (Serenity Court) on thumb piano.
7
'Drummer Boy (Kingston Edit)'
by Cale Parks
Aloha's Cale Parks goes deep. Tis the season to be JAHly.
8
'Powerblessings'
by Triceratops
Aaron Quillen and Travis Bravender of Natural Monuments present a tight-ass rhythm section for the holidays.
9
'The Ghost of Christmas Soul'
by Friendly Foes
Ryan Allen and friends jam out on positive vibes for the holidays. Praising quality time never sounded so fierce.
10
'All Fireplaces'
by Em News
Trevor Naud (Zoos of Berlin), Matt Rickle (Javelins), and Kate Bracken (formerly of Those Transatlantics) come together once again to stir the christmas pond.
11
'Cold Hands Warm Heart'
by Daniel Johnson
Daniel Johnson (Judah Johnson, The Elanors) slam dunks another solid track. Write Dan and tell him to come out of retirement, Jay-Z style.
12
'Bah Hum Bug'
by The Next Door Neighbors
Three key elements all add up to one thing: the Christmas Unspirit! Dave Lawson (The Pop Project/The Drinking Problem) and Darin Ficorelli (ex-Wafflehouse) are veterans to the holiday music circus - burned out on narratives. Angela Duncan joins in on clarinet.
13
'Sweet Baby Jesus'
by Flatfoot
Lansing twangers have fun, sing about baby Jesus. Just in case you were wondering, yes, he is very sweet.
14
'Blue Christmas Goes On'
by Javelins
Javelins offer a unique cover with original music, lyrics from an Elvis classic and also from 90's CCM chart-toppers PFR. And no, that sound you hear is not a pig.
15
'Lo, How a Rose'
by Will Yates
Will (The Pop Project/Zoos of Berlin) plays a deep cut from the caroling book on piano while we celebrate Shawn Knight and Ryan Allen's birthdays in the reverbed distance.
16
'Ghost of Christmas Future'
by The Whoa Boats
Lisa Norton (El Boxeo) freaks out about the future. Her brother, Zach Norton (Child Bite/El Boxeo), ditches their usual Whoa Boats cohorts Zach Curd and Danny Sperry in favor of fake drums and a bass synthesizer pedal to accompany his festive fuzz bass.
17
'Old Mt. Rudolph'
by Knight & Doble (& Durgan)
Shawn Knight & Christian Doble (both of Child Bite) enlist the help of drummer Mike Durgan (formerly of Thunderbirds Are Now!) for their 3rd installment to the annual compilation. Inspired by the Hawaiian Christmas sub-genre, this year's contribution is their first as an original composition.
18
'Letterbox in a Graveyard'
by Kevin McGorey
More sadness for Christmas from Kevin (The Word Play), featuring trumpet courtesy of his bro Colin McGorey.
19
'Just Like Christmas'
by French Skeletons
The French Skeletons are powerful microorganisms that wreak havoc on the body, making it stronger. Ethereal voice achieved via intense effects masking.
20
'Christmas Christ'
by Timmy Tumble
Ypsilanti transplant Tim Schreiber (ex-Cornish in a Turtleneck, current Lickity Splits) sent this song from Athens, GA which he describes as 'Ozzy sings Christmas, which isn't necessary bad.'
21
'Christmas All Over Again'
by Jacuzzi 2.0
Another fun track from Jacuzzi 2.0. This dude lives in Livonia, but no one here has ever met him. Weird.
22
'Little Star'
by Andrew Dost
Andrew Dost (ex-Anathallo) rides a white steed into the city of light, brings power-pop joy, elevates the universal soul of mankind.
23
'If It's Christmas'
by Lookout Mountain
Jason Bales (ex-Flatfoot) moves to North Carolina, sings Christmas song, the world rejoices.
24
'Brook Jacoby's Silver Bells'
by Brook Jacoby
Recording the handclap track on this song must have annoyed the crap out of Brook's Chicago neighbors.
25
'Reason For the Season'
by The Paincakes
Paincakes: an annual tradition, Suburban Sprawl's label founder gets drunk in front of a microphone. Thank the Lord.
26
'Silent Night'
by Zakk Mylde
Zach Norton (Child Bite / El Boxeo) honors guitar legends Zakk Wylde and Jimi Hendrix with a very special Christmas tribute.
27
'Dick in a Box'
by Jon Cendrowski
Jon (ex-Casionauts) pays homage to one of his lifelong inspirations: public nudity.
28
'Lung Cancer By Christmas (JRR Token' Edition)'
by MC Bilbo Broggins / DJ Frodo
Insane.
29
'Something New For Christmas'
by Eat Sleep
Ryan Clancy (The Silent Years / ex-Rescue) sings about Zach Curd and some other stuff for about 5 minutes.
30
'My Greek Nephews Like Christmas Too'
by Mike Hardin
Mike Hardin (Joiya) turned this in, and I'm not exactly sure how it relates to Christmas. I don't think he's even Greek.
31
'Miss Christmas'
by Zach Curd and Annie Moss
Zach Curd stretches his musical wings and flies high with Annie Moss.
32
'Christmas on Twelve Worlds'
by Jeremy Vallender
Jeremy writes the some of the spookiest and prettiest music you've ever heard, all from the depths of rural Mid-Michigan.
 

2006

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Craig Horky

1
'Ten To Six Christmas'
by Ian Saylor
2
'The One Day That I Need'
by Zach Curd
3
'Elves on Strike'
by Ryan Allen
4
'Yeah, I Know, It's Christmastime'
by Andrew Dost
5
'Shout Out'
by Andy Thompson
6
'A Song From Last Year'
by Provo/Howl
7
'You Set My Christmas Tree on Fire!'
by The Lickity-Splits
8
'Wonderful Christmastime'
by Triceratops
9
'I Will Be Around For Two Weeks in December'
by Love Axe
10
'Driving Home, Christmas Eve'
by Frontier Ruckus
11
'Christmas Came Early'
by Ten Words For Grenada
12
'Oh, Holy Night'
by Cale Parks
13
'Assassination on Christmas Eve'
by scottallenpatrickscheurman
14
'Barking Dog Jingle Bells'
by The Cartridge Family
15
'My Christmas Heart'
by Will Yates
16
'Christmas By the Numbers'
by The Word Play
17
'How To Make Eggnog'
by The Next Door Neighbors
18
'Ice Hammer (Kryst Banter Interlude)'
by ScatterPlots
19
'Christmas Before Christmas Was Cool'
by Kevin Mahler
20
'Icicle Men'
by Daniel Johnson
21
'Enjoy the Silent Night'
by DJ Tabernacle
22
'Christmas Food Fight'
by The Whoa Boats
23
'Marshmallow World'
by Knight & Doble
24
'Nicholas and the Fire'
by Magician & Charlatan
25
'Silent Night'
by Alec Jensen
26
'Merry Christmas (I Do Want To Fight Tonight)'
by The Paincakes
27
'Auld Lang Syne'
by Chris Bathgate
28
'Please, Let It Be Christmas'
by Brook "Brook Jacoby" Jacoby
29
'D.E.C. 25'
by Charlie Slick
30
'The Fruitcakes in the Oven'
by Jacuzzi 2.0
31
'100 Resolutions'
by Jon Cendrowski
32
'This Time Every Year Last'
by Murderflies
33
'Dear Bethlehem'
by Of Old and Young
34
'Please Come Home for Christmas'
by Yachts
 

2005

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Martin Smith

1
'Mistlewoes'
by The Next Door Neighbors
2
'Electric Sled'
by Em News
3
'Two-sided List'
by The Recital
4
'The Man With All the Toys'
by Knight & Doble
5
'Fists of Christmas Joy'
by The Word Play
6
'Gold Watch for Kringle'
by Keith Tenley
7
'Snow Hits the Street'
by Zach Curd
8
'O Holy Blanket (A Christmas Waltz)'
by The City On Film
9
'Christmas in Detroit'
by Kevin Mahler
10
'Outsourcin' Christmas'
by The Canadian Dollars
11
'Merry Merry Christmas'
by Brad Allen
12
'Rudolph'
by Adam Kempa
13
'No Presents For Christmas'
by New Grenada
14
'Airstream'
by Timothy Monger
15
'Frosty the Freemason'
by The Cartridge Family
16
'The Ugly Elf'
by Bill Brovold
17
'Born Again Pagan'
by Chris Hatfield
18
'Snowmen Have Hearts'
by Provo/Howl
19
'Christmas in Mesopotamia'
by Hairshirt
20
'Christmas Tree'
by Ian Saylor & Aria Abigail
21
'Little Drummer Boy'
by Canada
22
'Falala'
by Joiya
23
'Christmas Untitled'
by Sean Madigan Hoen
24
'Swollen Xmas'
by The Bloated
25
'Christmas (Without a Sound)'
by Phil Jacoby
26
'Gimme That Tree'
by The Whoa Boats
27
'On the Holiday'
by Tim Schreiber
28
'I Believe in Santa'
by The Paincakes
 

2004

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Martin Smith

1
'Santa's On His Way'
by Tony De Nardo
(of The Muggs)
2
'Cowboy Kringle'
by Javelins
3
'And Your Boy Can Drum'
by The Recital
4
'The Ninth Month'
by The Rants
5
'Slippers For Everyone This Christmas'
by Whoa Boats
(El Boxeo w/ Zach Curd on drums)
6
'Holiday Song #17'
by Alan Patrick Scheurman
(of Rescue)
7
'Snow Angels In My Place'
by Joiya
8
'Winters Wonderland'
by Scott Allen
(of Thunderbirds are Now!)
9
'I Hope You Like Christmas'
by Will Yates
(of The Pop Project, The Singles)
10
'Welcome To Christmas 2k'
by Garbage Boys Of America
(members of El Boxeo)
11
'I Accidentally Slept Through Christmas'
by Featuring Santatron 3000
(members of Javelins, The Pop Project)
12
'Jingle Bell Surf'
by Adam Kempa
(of The Recital, The Pop Project)
13
'3 Weeks'
by The Ups
(featuring Brandon Wiard)
14
'Boys And Children, Sing For Summer'
by Those Transatlantics
15
'As Winter Falls'
by Kevin Mahler
16
'My Plan For The Globalization Of Plastic Fascimilies'
by Christopher Walken
(Ryan Balderas of The Casionauts)
17
'My Uncle Ruined Christmas Again'
by The Nephews Featuring Uncle Jerk
(members of The Sights, The Hard Lessons, The Pop Project)
18
'The Season In Circles'
by South South Million
19
'Noel d'Orphanage'
by l'Orphanage
(members of The Pizazz)
20
'Santa Please Turn Around'
by Scott Harrison
21
'2 Minute Christmas Card'
by Zach Curd
(of The Pop Project)
22
'Christmas Chant'
by The Hard Lessons
23
'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus'
by Dave Lawson
(of The Pop Project, The Singles)
24
'Must Be Santa'
by Paincakes
26
'Santa Is Fo Real'
by Dirty Danger Squad
(featuring Jason Anderson and Adrian Orange)
 

2003

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Michelle Simon

1
'All I Want For Christmas...'
by Mike Spence & Chris Hatfield
2
'Holiday'
by The Pop Project
3
'Jingle Hell'
by Ryan Allen
4
'El Bells'
by El Boxeo
5
'Black Christmas'
by Sean Hoen and Ben Reed
6
'Sleigh Ride'
by Adam Kempa
7
'Winter Love Song'
by Windy and Carl
This song has been retired for inclusion on Windy & Carl's Rarities compilation 'Introspection.' Go buy it!
8
'You Didn't Get Me Anything for Christmas'
by Will Yates
9
'Hey Mr. Christmas, Why the Long Face?'
by The Recital
10
'Dreidle...'
by The Always Dangerous Steven Garvey
11
'Christmas Dreams Come True'
by Zach Curd
12
'Pirate's Christmas'
by Kevin Mahler
13
'Christmas is Coming'
by Clearly and the Mainstream
14
'Untitled #47'
by The Silver Bells featuring Santatron 3000
15
'Brief Peace (Traditional)'
by South South Million
16
'Canadian Christmas'
by The Morissettes
17
'Christmas Presence'
by The Pandering
18
'A Letter To Santa...'
by Darin Ficorelli & Dave Lawson
19
'Carbon Dioxide Snow'
by Chris Hatfield
20
'I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas'
by The Paincakes
 

2002

Play All

Download All

Artwork

Art: Martin Smith

1
'Jingle Bells'
by Adam Kempa
2
'A Raist Fist For Christmas'
by Chris Hatfield
3
'Christmas Music'
by Daniel Johnson
4
'Just A Woman (Mrs. Claus' Lament)'
by Dave Lawson
5
'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas'
by El Boxeo
6
'Pirate at Christmastime'
by Kevin Mahler
7
'Skin on Body Part 2'
by Kris Kaczor
8
'Here Comes Santa Claus'
by Paincakes
9
'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen'
by Profiteer
10
'Blue Christmas'
by Ryn & Crtny
11
'Christmastime...'
by Scott Allen & Caleb Deady
12
'Silent Night'
by Scott and Brad Allen
13
'Eff Arens in White'
by South South Million
14
'Shalom Haverim'
by Summersault
15
'Kings N' Things'
by The Recital
16
'Christmas in Hollis'
by Thunderbirds Are Now!
17
'Hark the Herald Angels Sing'
by Zach Curd