Getting ever so close to Christmas time! My top ten list for this month is dominated by Christmas carols but a few contemporary songs managed to sneak their way in.
1. Life of the Party - Shawn Mendes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fcTCMWx2-s
I've found myself comparing this song to Say Something by A Great Big World a lot lately. Other then the obvious male vocal lead, driving piano work, and close tempo rates, the song does have a few differences. First, it seems to be more motivational then Say Something. The lyrics are also a tad bit simpler, and the song relies on quicker piano work, but not by much.
2. The First Noel - David Crowder Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKJK0qYbKkc
I truly do not like the fact that this band isn't together making music anymore. This take on a traditional holiday carol is amazing. They throw in unique rhythm patterns, awesome guitar licks, and again crown it all with perfect dynamics. Add to that David Crowder's twangy voice, and you have a perfect new holiday tune.
3. Hands - Paul Brandt - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDpS5lQQLyQ
One of my all time favourite holidays songs, and all time favourite Christmas memories. I spent weeks learning every aspect of the song by ear, to pull it off live Christmas Eve with some good friends. The result was mainly amazing because the song itself is amazing. The lyrics are extremely down-to-earth simple, yet also creative. The leading guitar part is also extremely simple, but unique and integral to the song.
4. The Greatest Gift - Jason McCoy - No Video
This quiet, simple, country Christmas song isn't commonly heard. Still, it's a nice song, and very country from the mandolin usage, slide guitar, and twangy vocals. The message of the song is really nice as well, with simple lyrics conveying a deeper meaning.
5. Miraculum - Lincoln Brewster - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeUb0o0EXP0
This Christmas tune also ranks right up there with my holiday favourites. I definitely could see this as a Christmas Eve opener. So much is made of the electric guitar solos, which are definitely amazing, but without the underlying track of backup guitar, drums, and synth/keys, this song would sound really empty.
6. Tumbling After - Starfield - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNSfVQjxLdo
I stumbled upon this song in my iTunes library, and was immediately captured by the tune. The beat is another that you could really groove to, with the guitar strumming pattern stressing the staccato. Surprisingly, this is one of the first songs Starfield wrote, which is extremely impressive.
7. The Christmas Song - Clay Aiken - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JYa0atZM4g
This is a classical rendition of a classical Christmas tune. The song is like a melody, so smooth and easy to listen to. It sparks visions of snow dancing around outside, a fire raging inside, and families enjoying themselves together around the fireplace. Perfect holiday song, and perfect background music as well.
8. Christmas Lullaby - Beverley Mahood - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4QFynpN8JQ
Another country Christmas song! This one is also a very quiet slow tune. I really like the instrumental components of the song, and for that matter, in most Christmas country tunes. The guitar, mandolin, violin, and slide/lap guitar together create some very unique sounds. You can even throw in a flute for this song!
9. Stay with Me - Sam Smith - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pB-5XG-DbAA
The vocal power of Sam Smith is astounding. His control over that power is even more amazing. He has the ability to start off extremely raw, and quiet, and then blast out large notes. I also thought that this was his only popular song, but he also has two other ones that have been played a lot over the radio recently.
10. Messengers - Lecrae feat. for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxW3stJHdJk
Usually, I'm not a huge fan of rap or hip hop music, but I love this song! I've heard a lot about Lecrae, especially with his latest album, which the song comes from, hitting number one on the Billboard charts. It's amazing what he has been able to accomplish, and how he consistently turns his success back to God. A great role model for someone trying to make it in the contemporary music market who is a Christian.
Other Christmas Hits - Angels we Have Heard on High - Chris Tomlin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2McgKkUChA, Silent Night - Casting Crowns - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FlKC2DQvo4, Jingle Bells - Barenaked Ladies - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvFURcDMXfk
No comments:
Post a Comment