Christmas music divides people. Some blare Madame Carey from November onwards, while others cower at the opening bars of ‘Jingle Bells’. However, if you want to find a ‘middle ground’ let’s say, to soundtrack the season — music you may actually enjoy — well, ssssh don’t tell anyone but there are some festive tunes out there that are not only funky, but also a little psychedelic too.
If you’re hosting an alternative holiday party, or simply wanna open the minds of your family after a big meal while they are too stuffed to object, here’s a few of our top tunes to refresh your ears!
Santa Claus (The Fuzztones)
A dose of classic psychedelic fuzz-growling, this tune is a great opener for a night of festive weirdness. Featured on the aptly named ‘Psych-Out Christmas’, we recommend checking out the whole record! Even the undisputed (or at, least still standing!) Godfather of Punk, Iggy Pop contributes his version of a Christmas classic. Yes, Bing Crosby’s standard White Christmas gets a psych-makeover for the ages!
Little Drummer Boy/Silent Night/Auld Lang Syne (Jimi Hendrix)
He may have left us too soon, but in his short career this psychedelic icon covered three festive bangers for the price of one. Hendrix’s inimitable style will have you air-guitaring even if you’ve already become one with the sofa.
You’re a Mean One (Tyler, The Creator)
Tyler, The Creator is perhaps not the first artist you’d envisage doing the soundtrack for a 2018 animated kids movie. However, the Grinch has become a bit of an icon for those who consider themselves a bit of an outsider, especially around the festive season. Thus, Tyler manages to further increase the foreboding around Dr. Seuss’ wickedest character (until his heart grows three sizes of course!) with some lazy beats and trippy instrumental swells.
Little Star of Bethlehem (CAN)
Everyone loves a German Christmas market! But what about some German Christmas krautrock? CAN, a band forged in 1970s West Germany fill the gap between psychedelia and electronica, making them a cult favourite for those who ‘know’ music. This song slaps — and if you listen hard enough you will hear mutterings about Christmas trees — so it does count!
Ring Out, Solstice Bells (Jethro Tull)
For those who’s psychedelic ‘persona’ is that of a druid, a witch, or even just a jolly wee goblin, Jethro Tull are the band for you. Get weird amongst the standing stones (or your Christmas tree) for this solstice tune. (Bonus: your uncle will probably dig it!)