A Foggy Holiday: Carols From The SF Scene-Various Artists

Christmas is a time when loved ones come together and the chronically irritated faces of teenagers begin to slightly lighten up. It’s also a time to snuggle up in those pink bunny pajamas you swore you would never wear and enjoy December to the new ‘A Foggy Holiday : Carols From The SF Scene’ Volume 2 CD. The compilation is a mix of holiday songs sung by the bay area’s most talented artists. With bands like The Matches, Scissors For Lefty, The Federalists and others, it is hard to be disappointed. So basically don’t expecting the same old song and dance with this album. The compilation has a few of the songs that we expect during the holiday season, just a bit more affable. Yet, there are also songs on the album with the cleaver lyrics we scavenge for. One of the bands on the album that really made it worth buying was The Matches. On the album, they showed off their version of Happy New Year. The Matches are a band that are known for their witty lyrics and their opposition of normalcy. That is probably why they left such a lasting impression on me. Compared to their previous Christmas song, December is for Cynics, you can say both songs are pretty rivaled. All in all, the bands raw energy and enthusiasm in the song was enough to make your day. There are also other bands that made their songs quite original and for the most part, stimulating. In Scissors for Lefty’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, they make a reference to Queen that actually put a smile on my face. Another thing I liked was the fact that “The Little Drummer Boy” (performed by The Heavenly States) was actually appealing. Its almost amazing it took so long for someone to make that song worth a listen. Talking Heads Records definitely put together a great compilation and is worth every penny. All the songs on the album are pretty catchy and definitely worth your time. Some songs may require a certain love for the band, or an open mind, but keep listening to the album and I promise it will grow on you. The album may give you an almost cynical view of the holiday season, but then again, who needs optimism? The album as a whole is not exactly something you can get up and dance to. Most of the songs are rather soft, slow songs, but definitely good, nonetheless. Aside from Happy New Year, it’s a pretty relaxing mix of songs. So maybe the songs are not exactly edifying and probably something that any acrimonious person would throw in the trash, but for all those misfits who want something that will add a little twist to their holiday, this is the album your looking for. So when you get the chance, pick up a copy and close your eyes and let the music speak for it's self.