My Morning Jacket "Happy Holiday!"

Ah, to have These indie darlings wish you a Happy Holiday! Sounds good, right?

Sounds like a challenge approaching. While no one really likes feeling sorry for themselves, except what it may afford them, even though it is counterproductive, this song allures and then stings, not only because of the song itself, but it scores this seasonal paranoia.

I can imagine that one of the most poignant songs a traveling musician can sing around this time of year is "I'll Be Home for Christmas," and they deliver that yearning while keeping you out of the cold, with the internal burning.

One of my favorite selections had to be their cover of The Band's "Christmas Must Be Tonight" referencing the original Christmas story in its lyrics, and not only does that little baby boy, but this song also, brings so much joy (just not as much as the former).

 

So, after realizing that most of the songs I hadn't heard before were also covers, nearly identical to their originals, I was less impressed, but still pleased with the songs. 

Covers are basically regifting older songs, because music is a gift, but not everyone always sees it that way. The boys in the band, this band, go so far as to regift their own songs, both of which were wonderful in sound, one in title as well, with snowy versions. 

I can call this effort a lazy and deceptive one, but that would be the scrooge within. Pragmatic, maybe? They do cover appropriate staples, and the covert tributes to previous bands' originals are all tastefully done.  The new versions of their regifted originals manage to simulate an occasional snowfall from time to time.  In the spirit of the season, I guess I can forgive them, also because their holiday outing is giving a home to some of their songs which had none.

You may not find this funny, but at the outset, James was feelin' sorry for himself, with what could be their own Elvis holiday staple, and throughout this steady coaster of emotions we arrive at "Wonderful (Snowy Version)." The song starts with saying, "It matters to me. Took a long time to get here." The perfect way to end what should be a happy holiday; accurate statement when it comes to where they started on this record, which may set one for how quickly they arose out of the void.