Artist
Low[2]
Label
Kranky[61]
Low
Christmas
Kranky
/
2010
LP
26.99
KRANK153LP
Gatefold sleeve
Incl. VAT plus shipping / Orders from outside the EU are exempt from VAT
Tracklist
1Just Like Christmas 3:09
2Long Way Around The Sea 4:39
3Little Drummer Boy 4:52
4If You Were Born Today (Song For Little Baby Jesus)4:50
5Blue Christmas 3:22
6Silent Night 4:23
7Taking Down The Tree 2:44
8One Special Gift 1:49

First time vinyl release for this classic Low holiday recording. We would suggest that few bands from an ostensibly "indie rock" background should release Christmas music, if not out of respect for the holiday or material then at least out of a sense of self-esteem. Low, however, were made for this. Their attention to musical detail combined with the heavenly vocal harmonies of Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker are perfectly attuned to both traditional carols like "Silent Night" and more contemporary tunes such as "Blue Christmas."

Christmas contains a selection of seasonal songs, including four originals by the band, mostly recorded at Low's 20° Below studio in Duluth, MN. "If You Were Born Today" and "Blue Christmas" were released as a 7 inch single in 1997 on the English Wurlitzer Jukebox label, while "Taking Down The Tree" is taken from a 1998 compilation of live recordings issue by the Dutch VPRO radio station.

"The band cloaks the covers and their own seasonally themed compositions in a lovely haze. Chipper tree trimmers may find their approach dispiriting, but Low's intent is nothing if not reverent." Entertainment Weekly "Amidst the ever crowded sea of blank holiday muzak that hits the airwaves like clockwork every year, Low's "Christmas" is a shining beacon of hope under my tree." Godsend Online "An irony free Christmas album that doesn't reek of opportunism from an unpreachy band is simply a godsend." Alternative Press

"Low does a rare thing in today's indie-rock milieu by refusing to survive on cynicism and worldliness alone. The heartfelt and reverential beauty of their sound and lyrics are perfect for the holiday season. Christmas is a rich treat in a tiny package." All Music Guide