Play it Like I'm Sad and Lonely (updated)

PC and I are working on some fun versions of the “12 Days of Christmas” for tomorrow since the day will be 12 days away. Here’s a few to hold you over until then. Oh, how creepy is that picture?

Tom Waits – Silent Night/A Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis

What never ceases to amaze me about Waits is his knack for just pure storytelling. The details of this song, from a stolen record to name-checking Little Antony and the Imperials, are strikingly keen observations on the human condition. This is a live version from Austin City Limits. EV, another one for you!

All I Ever Get for Christmas Is Blue – Over the Rhine

This Cincinnati band has a new Christmas album out. Unlike most, their album is made entirely of new, original material. This is a great, melancholy song that sounds like a snowy evening.

Listening to Otis Redding At Home During Christmas – Okkervil River

They draw a lot of comparisons to Bright Eyes. There is a lot of songs that I dislike by Bright Eyes—too abrasive and self-indulgent for me. But there are some that I really admire and enjoy. I feel that exact same way about Okkervil River. This is one that I like quite a bit. Another quiet song with some nice images sprinkled throughout.

Little Drummer Boy – Mark Kozelek

Within a few seconds of hearing Kozelek’s voice, I am usually driven into a deep depression. “Glenn Tipton” by Sun Kil Moon remains one of my favorite songs of the decade—it just rips me apart. This comes from his recent live CD.