FoBoBlo

Hey blog readers! I hope everyone got the prezzies they wanted, and that if you have to go to the mall, you don’t have to elbow anyone in the neck to get that item on sale/return that gimmicky book you received from someone who didn’t want to think too much about things. If you’re like me, you probably are ready to destroy Michael Buble/Harry Connick Jr./other generic Christmas singers after listening to them flow out of the speakers of every business establishment since December 1. HOWEVER, Christmas isn’t over until January 6th, so you might not yet be in the clear.

Here’s the part where I can’t generalize: I have over twenty-four hours of Christmas music on my iTunes. I know. This is the perfect time to scoop up cheapo, awesome, and totally fresh Christmas music from your local gigantor books&CDs conglomerate. Since I am clearly more Christmas-carol-obsessed than your average atheist, here is a list of some albums to keep your eyes peeled for as you continue the shop/return/shop/return loop.

For the Dub, Electronica, and Acid Jazz fans: The Reindeer Room series
I: A Christmas Chillout, II: A Christmas Chillout, III: Not So Silent Night

I scooped up the second volume of this series for a cool $5, and it is an excellent addition to the collection. Reminiscent of Buddha-bar type albums except with lesser known performers and Christmas carols instead of pop songs, these instantly make a tired Christmas party seem more like a hip bar lounge. Loved by my parents.

For the Country Fan: Sugarland
Gold & Green

This album is really, really fun. Also, twangy.

For the Top 40 Lovers: Very Special Christmas
A Very Special Christmas Vol. 7

Buy this one instead of NOW 2039842 — proceeds go to charity. Also, Sean Kingston.

For People Who Love Bookstore Compilations: Sunday Music
Sunday Music 5: Holiday

Barnes & Noble put together an enjoyable little compilation this year, combining Bird & the Bee, Norah Jone, Imogen Heap, and Lou Rawls. It’s as nice as finding a totally unoccupied Starbucks when you have studying to do.

For the Radio-Friendly Hipster: Maybe This Christmas series
Maybe This Christmas, Maybe This Christmas Too, Maybe This Christmas Tree

Indie music is hard to keep up with, okay? And some people just really like Coldplay. These mixes have a good blend of better-known hipster artists like Rilo Kiley and Death Cab for Cutie, big stars like Dave Matthews Band, Ben Folds, and Barenaked Ladies, and lovable indie groups like Eisley and Pedro the Lion. You feel pretty cool listening to them, without being too cool.

For the Hipster: Brushfire Records, Saddle Creek, Sufjan
A Brushfire Holiday Vol. 1, Bright Eyes, Songs for Christmas

If you have a crowd that is going to boo if they somehow realize DMB is on an album, try this collection of carols from Brushfire Records artists. Or throw on an old favorite, the Bright Eyes Christmas album (you can even buy it in vinyl). Sufjan Stevens’ five CD boxset has something for every family member while still soothing your indie soul.

For/From the Internet: Santastic! Holiday Boots 4 Your Stockings & A Very Bootie Xmas

Enjoy these free albums! Santastic! is a little dub heavy, while still containing internet lulz-heavy gems such as “Carol of the Burgers.” If you love mash-ups, you already love Bootie, so check out their two albums of holiday cheer.

For Readers of FoBoBlo: Download this Zip

If you’re wondering what hangs out on the hard drive of a person who has over a gig of Christmas music, here’s a mix from me to you. Enjoy!