Jason Bovberg

I normally hate Xmas music, but there are a few "traditional" songs I've liked--only when they're covered by modern alternative or funk/rhythm groups. Off the top of my head, I'm thinking of...

1. Frosty the Snowman (Cocteau Twins)
2. Sleigh Ride (The Ventures)
3. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (The Smithereens)
4. Los Straightjackets
5. Anything with unusual rhythms, or cool acoustics, or a "world" sound, percussion...

I'd like to make a mix CD of some great alternative Xmas tunes that would provoke conversation and goddamn holy enlightenment. What are your favorite "cool" holiday covers?

Tscott

See also Winter Wonderland (Cocteau Twins) - my favorite version of that song.

That one can be found on The Edge of Christmas CD which is fantastic. Some of the songs are originals and not covers as you requested, but it's a must have in my book..
1. Thank God It's Christmas - Queen
2. Please Come Home for Christmas - Pat Benatar
3. 2000 Miles - The Pretenders
4. December Will Be Magic Again - Kate Bush
5. Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy - David Bowie & Bing Crosby
6. Winter Wonderland - Cocteau Twins
7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - The Smithereens
8. Run Rudolph Run - Dave Edmunds
9. Christmas Is Coming - The Payola$
10. Fairytale of New York - The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl
11. Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight) - The Ramones
12. Christmas Wrapping - The Waitresses

funkyryno

You should check this out.

Jason Bovberg

That Vandals album sounds hilarious, from the snippets I was able to download. In general, though, punk kinda turns me off. That being said, I'll be downloading their "Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies." Thanks!

Keep 'em comin'!

tofu

I actually just bought the OC Mix 3 which is the Chrismukkah album. Some of the highlights include Jimmy Eat World's cover of "Last Christmas" and "The Christmas Song" by the Raveonettes.