It almost feels like a tradition here at The Ark to take a long listen through the yearly Bongo Boy Records holiday compilation album. In its sixth edition, this year we’re treated to a dynamic collection of Christmas classics and festive originals on Let’s Have a Rockin’ Christmas, Vol. 6.
We kick things off with an iconic track, a delicate and powerful rendition of Mary, Did You Know by Jeralyn Glass and Dr. Sue Morter. It has a deeply spiritual and reverent timbre that radiates warmth and richness throughout the track. The following track has a similar soulful vocal but in an entirely pop presentation. Christmas Cheer by Tammy T and Keith Hines Production will fit right into your most modern Christmas playlists, with an infectious melody and danceable rhythm.
Christmas on Cellblock 9 brings us a unique concept from See Your Shadow Songwriting. A case of mistaken identity leads to a holiday behind bars with a witty, tongue-in-cheek country twang. A hint of Americana is detectable in the next track as well, a soft and sweet rendition of It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Kate Magdalena.
When We Were Kids at Christmas by 42nd St Singers Feat. Alyssa Young is a modern-day dose of real nostalgia, taking a light pop tune and turning the clock back to our childhoods. It’s hard not to imagine your own early Christmas mornings as this easy-listening track bounces along. (Have A) Bright Christmas by Jonathan Goldman takes a more timeless approach. Reminiscent of Michael Bublé, Goldman’s rich voice is a vessel for a heartwarming instant classic.
The NEW Bardots give us a bluesy, soulful number with Santa Don’t Like Politics. The message to keep the political topics out of the heart of the holiday season is both welcome and much needed this time of year. It’s Christmas Time by Studeo has a touch of ’50s rock energy with its shuffling rhythm and choir-like harmonies.
Let’s Have a Rockin’ Christmas from Jackie Kringle & The Elves is a stand-out on this compilation. Driving rock rhythms, gritty vocals, and sharp guitar riffs are the foundation of this endlessly fun track. This is the epitome of a modern rock holiday hybrid track, backed by a clearly talented group of musicians and capturing a different side of this festive time of year.
We also love Snowman by Hannyta. A cover of a Sia track, this artist does a phenomenal job of capturing Sia’s rhythm and timbre in her own rendition – so much so that it could nearly be mistaken for the original.
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BELOW: Listen to Let’s Have a Rockin’ Christmas, Vol. 6 and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Bongo Boy Records by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!