Thanksgiving is officially over, which means you can finally stop feeling guilty about turning up the radio every time a Christmas song comes on. Nothing boosts the Christmas spirit like jolly music playing in the background while you are shopping for presents, baking cookies or even studying for that last final before heading home for break. Here are some of the best holiday albums to listen to as the winter festivities draw nearer.
Christmas by Michael Buble
Buble’s chart-topping holiday album features all of the standard Christmas tunes, including hit singles “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and “White Christmas.” His smooth vocals and contemporary take on traditional songs make this jazz-pop album an instant classic.
A Charlie Brown Christmas by Vince Guaraldi Trio
The Charlie Brown Christmas television special has become an American holiday tradition. This album features all of the music from the much-loved telecast, including favorites “Linus and Lucy” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.”
Christmas Eve and Other Stories by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
A modern take on Christmas music, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra combines rock music with familiar classical pieces to create a “rock opera” that tells a story. Christmas Eve and Other Stories was certified Triple Platinum, and is the first album of the “Christmas Trilogy.”
Merry Christmas by Mariah Carey
What’s better than Mariah Carey circa 1994? Carey’s contemporary Christmas album is rich in gospel influence, and produced the chart-topping hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Uplifting and soulful, this album will have you whistling along in no time.
December by Chris Botti
With most of the album being purely instrumental, this makes excellent background music if you don’t want any extra distractions. Botti’s sultry trumpet combined with the jazz piano make for an interesting new take on the classic Christmas carols.
Noël by Josh Groban
Peaking at the number one position in three countries, Noël highlights Groban’s incredible vocals and operatic pop style. This is great to listen to as background music, but some of his more powerful songs require sitting down and stopping what you’re doing to truly appreciate.
Photo Credits: Michael Buble, Charlie Brown, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Mariah Carey, Christ Botti, Josh Groban, Cover photo
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