Christmas music holds a special place in the hearts of so many. For an artist, releasing a Christmas album comes with its own unique pressures—but it can also become a defining moment, etching their music into the memories of the holiday season.
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In this festive episode of Judged by the Cover, we’re diving into a few unexpected Christmas albums—the ones you didn’t see coming! Some are from artists you might not know ventured into holiday tunes, while others represent genres not typically associated with Christmas cheer.
Get ready for a fun and surprising discussion as we unwrap these musical gems. So grab your hot cocoa, pull up your favorite Santa blanket, and cozy up by the fire—it’s time to enjoy the holiday spirit with us.
CeeLo's Magic Moment
Josh kicked things off by introducing an album that’s as visually striking as it is musically captivating: CeeLo’s Magic Moment (2012). This album cover alone is a spectacle, featuring CeeLo as a flamboyant Santa Claus in a pink fur coat, riding in a convertible Bentley pulled by white horses, while a reindeer dons a black tie suit.
Beyond the eye-catching artwork, the album offers a traditional take on holiday classics, infused with CeeLo’s soulful style. Highlights include collaborations with Christina Aguilera and the Muppets. As Josh noted, it’s also the first solo CeeLo Green album without a parental advisory sticker—a fun fact that perfectly encapsulates the holiday spirit.
Phil couldn’t help but express his admiration for the design and its ability to capture the whimsical nature of the season. The conversation set the tone for a journey through unconventional holiday cheer.
Christmas with Weezer
Next up was Weezer’s Christmas EP (2008), introduced by Josh as an album with an innovative backstory. Originally created as part of the iOS app Tap Tap Revenge, the EP became so popular among fans that it was eventually released as a standalone project.
The cover art—originally an app icon—reflects Weezer’s playful and slightly punk-inspired aesthetic. Phil appreciated the band’s unique approach to holiday music, blending their signature sound with festive themes. The duo reminisced about Weezer’s history and their ability to surprise listeners with unexpected projects.
Weezer Christmas CD/EP
Winter Weezerland
Punk Rock Christmas
Finally, Phil brought up a personal favorite: Punk Rock Christmas, a compilation featuring iconic artists like Iggy Pop and Smash Mouth. The album’s cover, predictably adorned with a skull, oozes punk rock energy even in the context of Christmas.
Phil shared a nostalgic story about his brother’s mohawk, tying the rebellious spirit of punk rock to the holiday season. Josh and Phil agreed that the album’s audacious take on festive music perfectly encapsulates the genre’s ethos, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to break free from traditional holiday playlists.
From the soulful charm of CeeLo Green to the playful innovation of Weezer and the rebellious energy of punk rock, these albums prove that Christmas music can be as diverse and unexpected as the season itself. Whether you’re decking the halls or rocking around the Christmas tree, these unconventional picks are sure to bring something special to your holiday celebrations.
Do you have any other favorite unexpected Christmas albums...? Let us know in the comments below!