Riu Chiu - The Monkees
You wouldn't expect the Monkees to be aware of many sixteenth-century Spanich villancicos, yet they do a nice job recording this one. translation of lyrics
Christmas is Here - Richard Popovic
If there is someone else on Vox as influenced by the Monkees as I was, it is my brother Rich. Plus he actually learned to play guitar and write songs and stuff.
Ice - Shellyan Orphan
Some of the guitar notes of this song sound as if they were plinked out on an icicle xylophone. Very haunting.
The Christians and the Pagans - Dar Williams
You don't find many solstice holiday songs out there. From my good friend Dar. ok, I just had dinner with her the one time
Christmas Song - Dan Bern
Speaking of pagans, Dan works hard to offend as many religions as possible in this song. I was at this performance, recorded in a church in Berkeley.
A Christmas Carol - Tom Lehrer
We go back in time several decades to continue the somewhat cynical view of Christmas.
All I Want For Christmas - Timbuk 3
Star Wars and Thundercats in the same Christmas song? How has this song lived below the Christmas radar for so long?
B-B-Blue Christmas - ???
Speaking of under the radar, I have no idea who does this song or where it came from, but it always makes me laugh.
Space Christmas - Shonen Knife
A nice beat and I can dance to it. I give it a 7.
What's This - Danny Elfman
A different perspective on Christmas (assuming you are not undead).
Christmas in Killarney - The Chieftans
For the drinking portion of your holidays.
The Peace Carol - John Denver and the Muppets
Speaking as someone who never knew John Denver worked with other bands besides the Muppets, this song brings back a lot of pleasant memories. If you manage to steal a few quiet moments on Christmas, hum this softly to yourself. You might also be interested in these old Muppet Christmas cards from Jim Henson.
Secret Bonus Track To Drive You (Or Someone You Love) Insane: Jingle Rock Bell - http://quasistoic.org/PinkStainlessTail%20-%20jinglerockbell.mp3