Just before you smash your stereo into a thousand pieces at the prospect of hearing another jingly jangly santa-pop radio hit, remember that next week you’ll need it because you’ll be throwing your own holiday party! Now that’s what I call a dilema, but put down that burning hot pan of mould wine and think twice before sending your boombox to a watery grave.

You don’t HAVE to whack on the same old traditional jumbo to mark out the party as truly festive. I concede that any decent Christmas party play does simply have to include the default standards, but does it have to be at the expense of our sanity? The tunes start doing my head in and after hearing the same tracks at every shop, bar, and telly commercial.

So, here is my own non-traditional xmas compilation. Most of the songs have classic lyrics so everyone can sing along plus the melodies cater to even the shapest pair of Indie ears. It’s a win-win. Now, where did my santa outfit go?

1. Thanks for Christmas -- 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. Christmas Party, by The Walkmen. The intro to this track sound like an old Christmas radio show monologue. Then straight into a cheeky 50’s lounge style song making you feel the need to do the Mash Potato around the living room.

3. Jingle bell Rock, by The Arcade Fire. Indie style, everyone knows it. undisputable.

4. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), by Death Cab for Cutie. A lovely , low-key song about longing for that certain somebody at the most special time of the year.

5. A Change at Christmas, by the Flaming Lips. This one embraces all the old-school values of Christmas. Peace on earth and all that jazz! (p.S- it’s not jazzy)

6. Last Christmas, by Jimmy Eat World. A perfect Jimmy Eat World song. The lyrics are a little depressing, but no is Christmas (occasionally)

7. Maybe This Christmas, by Ron Sexsmith. What a classic. An inspiring track about the possibilities and emotions that Christmas time may unearth!

8. Blue Christmas, by Bright Eyes. Did somebody say this was an Alternative Christmas song list? well it wouldn’t be complete without a Bright eyes song. Elvis eat your heart out.

9. All I Want For Christmas is You, by My Chemical Romance. A swift romp, sing-along lyrics and flowing booze makes for a lively xmas bash. Get everyone boogying with this version of a timeless xmas classic

10. Santa, Bring My Baby Back to Me, by Belle and Sebastian. Another track missing a loved one.  Brilliant band too. Add this to your playlist to balance out all the Eggnog rowdy-ness.

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