Indie Alternative Covers of Christmas Songs: X-Mas Playlist

Indie Alternative Covers of Christmas Songs: X-Mas Playlist - 'Twas that night before Christmas, and you think you might scream if you hear another carol, but your holiday party is right around the corner. Should you grin and bear another night of traditional tunes or forgo the music all together? I seem to run in to this dilemma every year. I know any good Christmas party play list has to include the default standards, but why does it have to be at the cost of my sanity? The tunes grate on my nerves, and after months of hearing the same songs at every retail store, restaurant, and TV commercial my ears need a break. So, I compiled my own non-traditional Christmas compilation. Most of the songs have the classic lyrics so everyone can sing along and the melodies make my Indie ears happy. It's a win-win.

1. Thanks for Christmas, by XTC. This song is upbeat and sure to start off any Christmas party on the right foot. The lyrics hit everyone's favorite Christmas traditions; decorating the tree, snow falling down and spending time with loved ones.

2. Jingle bell Rock, by The Arcade Fire. Keep the party going with a song everyone can sing along too, Indie style.

3. Christmas Party, by The Walkmen. The first few seconds of this track sound like an old Christmas radio show monologue. Followed up by a perky 50's lounge style song that makes you want to do the Mash Potato around the Christmas tree.

4. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), by Death Cab for Cutie. A striking, low-key song about wishing you were with that special someone on Christmas.

5. A Change at Christmas, by the Flaming Lips. This song reminds us to remember the true spirit of Christmas, peace on earth and goodwill towards men.

6. Maybe This Christmas, by Ron Sexsmith. Out of all the music on this list, this is by far my favorite. It's an inspiring song about looking forward to the possibilities of Christmas.

7. Last Christmas, by Jimmy Eat World. A classic Jimmy Eat World song. The lyrics are a little depressing, but that is Jimmy.

8. Santa Baby, by Earth Kit. A great Christmas classic. In my book, no Christmas party is complete without this song, and the vocals on this version are intoxicating.

9. Silent Night, by Alexi Murdoch. Murdoch is a great performer, and this tune is a classic. If you want a sing-a-long without the pain of overly cheery Christmas tunes, this is the way to go.

10. Father Christmas, by the Kinks. Who doesn't love the Kinks? They're upbeat, perky and easy going. For an added bonus, grab the live music video recording, and show off the band sporting their Santa Hats.

11. Christmas Time is Here, by Ivy. There are close to a billion versions of this song available to download, but I can say with certainty that you wont find a more original version.

12. Winter Wonderland, by the Phantom Planet. Another must have classic tune. This version reminds me of a post Eggnog karaoke session. Light, fluffy and far from the carol.

13. White Christmas, by Goldfinger. Personally, the original version of this tune turns me into an insta-Grinch. It seems like every retail outlet in America has to play this every hour on the hour. Oh, but alas, one must please one's party go-ers. Pick up this version by Goldfinger and enjoy a slightly less nauseating White Christmas.

14. Just like Christmas, by Low. The lyrics may not be traditional, but the tune is quick enough to keep everyone bobbing along.

15. Blue Christmas, by Bright Eyes. This is one of the few classic Christmas songs I actually enjoy, and Bright Eyes always makes my Grinch heart grow three times it's size.

16. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Klaus, by Bif Naked. Everyone is guaranteed to sing along to this tune. I think it is hard wired in to our brains at an early age. Pick up the Bif Naked version and keep your alternative play list standing in tact.

17. Rudolph, by Jack Johnson. With every Christmas must come a little Rudolph. Welcome him in with Jack Johnson and cut out some of the too-much-carol nausea.

18. When I Get Home For Christmas, by Snow Patrol. Wishing to be with loved ones distant and past is a part of Christmas. Add in a little originality to the theme with this song by Snow Patrol.

19. All I Want For Christmas is You, by My Chemical Romance. A fast beat, sing-along lyrics and flowing alcohol makes for a lively Christmas party. Get everyone dancing with this version of a timeless Christmas jingle.

20. Santa, Bring My Baby Back to Me, by Belle and Sebastian. Another wish for a missing loved one by a great band. Add this to your list to balance out all the Eggnog induced rowdy-ness.