20. See, Amid the Winter’s Snow (1858)
Without wishing to be sniffy about it, there are definitely better traditional carols out there than the stuff you hear every Christmas without fail. Whether rendered by a choir, or Annie Lennox on her 2010 album A Christmas Cornucopia, See, Amid the Winter’s Snow has a beautiful tune, unflattened by overfamiliarity.
19. In Dulci Jubilo (1328)
Disregard the upbeat instrumental rendition by Mike Oldfield, which was popularized as the theme for the TV show Fanny Cradock Cooks for Christmas. Instead, listen to a slower version of In Dulci Jubilo, which has a haunting quality and is enhanced by the absence of a flashy guitar solo.
18. The Little Drummer Boy (1941)
Made popular in the 1950s by the Trapp Family Singers, known for their role in The Sound of Music, this song has been covered by artists such as Justin Bieber, Busta Rhymes, Terry Wogan, and Aled Jones. Despite its potential to be overly sentimental and cutesy, The Little Drummer Boy manages to strike a heartfelt chord.
The Midnight Clear (1849) was observed.
You want the original US version of It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, rather than the 1874 European remix: the latter has a different (inferior) tune, the former is lilting, beautiful and has spawned umpteen latter-day versions from country (Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette) to jazz (Ella Fitzgerald).
16. Gaudete (1582)
This is not your typical Christmas singalong, as the lyrics are in Latin and may be difficult for those who have had a few drinks at midnight mass. The most well-known rendition of Gaudete today is Steeleye Span’s 1973 a cappella version. Let’s not think of Alan Partridge singing it in his car; Gaudete is a strong and slightly foreboding piece.
15. Ding Dong Merrily on High (1924)
This is a non-religious melody, taken from a book of French dances from the 16th century and given a new purpose. The words are somewhat ostentatious – their writer, George Ratcliffe Woodward, seemingly enjoyed old-fashioned poetry, implying that he was the type of individual to use words like “methinks” in everyday speech – but it doesn’t matter: the elongated “gloria” brings about a fitting sense of euphoria.
14. Good King Wenceslas (1853)
The portrayal of Good King Wenceslas tends to downplay the story: according to some versions, Saint Wenceslas regularly went out barefoot in the snow as a form of penance. The tune, known for bringing joy and abundance, is actually based on a 13th-century Easter carol.
13. God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen (c1650s)
Often incorrectly punctuated, the phrase “God rest you merry” from Shakespeare means “God grant you happiness.” Nowadays, the song “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen” is usually performed with two verses removed (which only talk about shepherds, so we’re not really missing anything). Despite a journalist from the 1820s who criticized it as “doggerel,” this song is quite cheerful and can bring about a feeling of warmth. Can’t please everyone, even newspaper critics.
12. We Three Kings (1857)
A successful blend of melancholic lines and a grand chorus, with added suspense when Balthazar joins in verse four and his explanation of his gift only adds to the confusion: “Myrrh is mine, its bitter scent brings about a sense of impending doom”. How delightful. By the way, did you happen to save the receipt?
11. O Holy Night (1843)
Originating from France but gaining popularity in the US, English songs with lyrics about slavery were well-liked by abolitionists. Despite its beautiful melody, O Holy Night is not sung as frequently as it deserves, supposedly due to its challenging vocal range. To hear the song performed flawlessly, listen to Etta James’s subtle rendition.
10. Silent Night (1818)
Silent Night can sound like a dirge, as anyone who has heard it rendered by the year 4 violin group at a school Christmas concert can attest, but there is something beautiful about its images of tranquility, particularly when you know it was written in the aftermath of a war. Sinéad O’Connor’s version peels away the overfamiliarity.
9. Carol of the Bells (1919)
Renowned now for its appearance in the Home Alone soundtrack, Carol of the Bells originated in Ukraine and is recognized for its repetitive four-note vocal that creates a feeling of expectation. The most unconventional contemporary interpretation comes from Wynton Marsalis, who jazzes up the melody and gives it an unexpected, seductive quality.
8. The Holly and the Ivy (c1814)
The Holly and the Ivy is an age-old English song that was first published many years ago. Some may argue that it is best enjoyed when sung by a folk singer rather than a choir, as artists like Eliza Carthy and Steeleye Span have done. These singers tend to alter the rhythm of the song, giving it a colder and more rustic feel rather than a lively and refined one.
7. Joy to the World (1719)
The “Ed Sheeran” of Christmas songs: while originally English, it became a hit in the US despite criticism for borrowing from other songs (it is the most widely published Christmas song and hymn in the US, but it is heavily influenced by Handel). Its popularity is due to its incredibly upbeat and infectious optimism.
6. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (1861)
One of the oldest songs featured here, originating from eighth or ninth century monastic chants, is O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. It is technically an Advent hymn that has been adapted for Christmas celebrations. The most well-known melody, introduced in the 19th century, is incredibly lovely and has been reinterpreted by both indie bands and Enya.
The song “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” was written in 1739.
Certain songs were meant to evoke a reflective atmosphere, encouraging us to ponder the awe of the birth of Jesus, while others were simply meant to be sung loudly. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing falls into the category of songs that could be compared to Motörhead.
4. Coventry Carol (1534)
This carol is the ultimate hidden gem. With a haunting folk tune and sorrowful lyrics, it focuses on the Massacre of the Innocents rather than the Nativity. It is sung from the perspective of a new mother in despair, making it emotionally gripping and even unsettling. It’s no wonder it is often categorized as a song to be used sparingly.
The First Noel, a Christmas carol dating back to the 16th or 17th century.
The version of The First Noel that originated in Cornwall may actually be 300 years older than the previous estimate. This modern rendition emphasizes a gradual progression and an impressive finale. It begins softly, emphasizing the modesty of the shepherds, but by the end, it is full of energy and impossible to resist.
2. In the Bleak Midwinter (1904)
Gustav Holst took inspiration from Christina Rossetti’s poem to create this renowned and somber Christmas carol. While acknowledging its spiritual significance and beautiful melody, it also highlights themes of hardship, frugality, and people lamenting about the weather. This may reflect our unspoken acknowledgment of the underlying melancholy that often accompanies the festive and glittery exterior of Christmas.
“Oh Come, All You Faithful” (1744)
The top spot on this list is purely based on personal preference. However, after struggling through Silent Night and giving our best effort with the sentimental Away in a Manger, who doesn’t feel a surge of joy at the chance to sing out O Come, All Ye Faithful? Its chorus builds in dynamics, the line about the virgin’s womb is strangely appealing, and the ending is a showstopper. Just be cautious of the amateur singer who, fueled by sherry, attempts the complex harmonies in the last verse.
Source: theguardian.com
