Unique Vinyl Records to Spin This ChristmasAs the holiday season approaches, the familiar sounds of Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey inevitably begin to fill the airwaves. While these classics are staples of festive cheer, the world of vinyl collecting offers a treasure trove of unusual, quirky, and downright bizarre Christmas records that can add a unique twist to your seasonal soundtrack. Stepping beyond the traditional carol album can bring a sense of nostalgia, novelty, and humor to festive gatherings. For collectors and music lovers looking to liven up their holiday audio experience, here are some quirky vinyl records to try this Christmas.
The Groovy Sound of Christmas SurfOne of the most energetic and surprising subgenres of holiday music is Christmas surf rock. The Beach Boys may have set the standard, but the 1960s were filled with instrumental bands putting a twangy, high-energy spin on classic carols. A prime example is The Ventures’ Christmas Album. This 1965 release swaps slow, somber carols for uptempo guitar riffs and driving drums. Songs like “Jingle Bells” and “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town” are transformed into surf anthems, providing an unexpected, high-energy soundtrack for opening gifts or hosting a party. It’s a fun, instrumental twist that appeals to both surf rock enthusiasts and anyone tired of traditional holiday arrangements.
Experimental and Synth-Heavy Holiday CheerFor those who prefer their Christmas tunes with a side of electronic experimentation, the 1970s and 80s produced some eccentric synth-pop gems. The 1974 album The Electro-Theremin Christmas by Jerry Butler is a standout, featuring the strange, wailing sounds of the Electro-Theremin on classics like “Silent Night.” It is hauntingly beautiful yet undeniably odd. Similarly, for a more kitschy, 80s vibe, finding a copy of A Christmas Record released by ZE Records in 1981 offers an eclectic mix of punk, disco, and art-pop Christmas songs from artists like Suicide and Christina. These records bring a nostalgic, slightly futuristic feel to the holidays, proving that holiday music can be both cool and unconventional.
Unexpected Celebrity Christmas AlbumsThe tradition of celebrities releasing Christmas albums is long, but some stand out more than others for their sheer quirkiness. A truly eccentric choice is William Shatner’s Shatner Claus, a modern release but one that perfectly embodies the spirit of quirky vinyl. Known for his dramatic spoken-word style, Shatner delivers holiday classics with intense passion. For a classic kitsch option, look for Christmas with Chet Atkins. While Atkins is a legendary guitarist, his festive albums often feature uniquely arranged instrumental versions that are calming yet technically impressive, offering a sophisticated alternative to loud holiday pop. Adding celebrity oddities to your collection is a great conversation starter for any Christmas gathering.
Spoken Word and Novelty Holiday RecordsChristmas isn’t just about music; it’s also about storytelling and novelty sounds. Vinyl records featuring classic Christmas tales, such as A Christmas Carol, or specialized children’s records featuring popular characters, are fantastic for creating a cozy, vintage atmosphere. Look for original Disney holiday releases from the 1960s, which often feature whimsical storytelling paired with delightful, orchestral music. Additionally, finding rare, novelty comedy records from the 1950s—such as those featuring Spike Jones—can introduce a vaudeville style of humor to your holiday season that is both antique and charmingly bizarre.
Exploring quirky Christmas vinyl records allows for a personalized, festive experience that breaks away from the monotony of mainstream holiday music. Whether it’s the high-energy sounds of surf rock, the strange textures of electronic festive tunes, or the nostalgic charm of vintage storytelling, these records offer a refreshing, often humorous take on the season. Building a collection of these unique holiday LPs transforms the act of playing music into a treasured ritual, bringing both warmth and eccentricity to your home this Christmas.
Leave a Reply