A Very Alt-Rock Christmas: 15 Holiday Covers + Original Songs
Christmas Eve is upon us and your seasonal playlists have been on shuffle. There's plenty of holiday albums out there by classic artists but the alternative rock scene has also contributed some festive favorites. While you're sipping cocoa, wrapping presents or baking cookies today, we've got the perfect additions to your holiday soundtrack. Rock (or mosh) around the Christmas tree with these 15 carols!
"Santa Stole My Girlfriend" by The Maine
Who knew Santa was a player? On this tune off the Maine's 2008 Christmas EP, singer John O'Callaghan laments the loss of his girlfriend to jolly old St. Nick and calls him a "bitch" in the chorus.
"Angels We Have Heard On High" by Bayside
Bayside bring some punk-rock flair to this classic Christmas song. If only we could go caroling door to door with electric guitars...
"Merry Christmas, Kiss My Ass" by All Time Low
All Time Low produced a funny Christmas jam that's perfect for anyone with enemies this season. Sing along to this song when you're feeling feisty or better yet, wish them a happy holiday with these lyrics on a Christmas card.
"T'was The Night Before Christmas" by Family Force 5
Family Force 5 put a hip-hop meets crunk-rock spin on this Christmas carol featuring whispered vocals. Note the shout out to the reindeer in the chorus. It's nice to see them getting recognition for their hard work pulling the sleigh. The elves and Santa get all the attention.
"Joy To The World" by August Burns Red
Doesn't metal music bring joy to the world during every season? August Burns Red prove that Christmas carols tinged with aggression can still bring cheer. Especially to the mosh pit.
"Snow" by New Found Glory
New Found Glory just released this original holiday song, a melancholy turn for the band known for more upbeat punchy hits. It's a great song to listen to when it's snowing outside and you're curled up inside.
"I Won't Be Home For Christmas" by blink-182
This song is for all you scrooges out there! Blink-182 pump up their cynical attitude and punk sound in this anti-Christmas anthem in which they refer to carolers as "Satan's helpers." Travis, Tom and Mark are just mad they're on the naughty list.
"You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" by Sirens & Sailors
This Christmas classic isn't covered too often but this release shows that we were just waiting for the right cover: a metal version. Mr. Grinch is the most evil Christmas character out there so he deserves to be bellowed about over some breakdowns. Wouldn't this have been a great addition to the cartoon scene when he steals all the toys from the Whos down in Whoville?
"Last Christmas" by Jimmy Eat World
This is one of the most popular Christmas songs out there and Jimmy Eat World did a great job on this cover. Their classic sound meshes perfectly with the lyrics.
"Under The Mistletoe" by Never Shout Never featuring Dia Frampton
"Under The Mistletoe" is an adorable Christmas love duet that gives "Baby, It's Cold Outside" a run for it's money. Frontman Christofer Drew croons to his love, "I stole Santa's reindeer, gonna take you on a sleigh ride." That's a serious romantic gesture.
"Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays" by Issues
The Punk Goes Christmas compilation album has a bunch of great holiday songs but this cover of an N'Sync holiday favorite stands out thanks to vocalist Tyler Carter's smooth falsetto. Issues update the jam with some screams and a sweet bridge where they throw in some lyrics from the NEXT hit, "Too Close."
"Alone This Holiday" by The Used
The sound of cheery jingle bells open this not-so-cheery holiday song. Anyone scorned from their relationship will appreciate this realistic take on Christmastime sadness.
"I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Front Porch Step
Jake Mcelfresh is the mastermind behind Front Porch Step and it was only a matter of time before he took his amazing voice to a Christmas song. It'll definitely compliment your cozy feeling if you listen while sitting near the fire on a cold winter day.
"Little Drummer Boy" by Bad Religion
This classic Christmas tune gets a punk step-up from Bad Religion. The song features major riffs and some fierce drum pounding that would do the Drummer Boy proud.
"I'm Getting Nuttin' For Christmas" by Relient K
The entire Relient K Christmas album is chock full of awesome holiday jams. This cover is a short, fast-paced blast of Christmas spirit that includes some gang vocals. It's the type of Christmas cover you'd expect from a rock band and Relient K definitely do it justice.