Christmas Offerings From R.E.M, Camera Obscura

R.E.M


Camera Obscura

Download: R.E.M - "Merry Xmas Everybody"
Download: Slade - "Merry Xmas Everybody"
Download: Camera Obscura - "Little Donkey"


Camera Obscura has added their voices to the ever-growing Christmas chorus with a live version of "Little Donkey." I hadn't heard this particular carol before, but the song is about the donkey that carried Mary (and therefore Jesus) to Bethlehem. The recording is a little more lo-fi than I'm used to with Camera Obscura, but it's still a sweet little song. The guitar solo and the slow build with trumpets really boost the song from middle-of-the-road to indie pop Christmas classic.

Additionally, every year, R.E.M. sends out a CD, card and other assorted goodies to their fan club. After a disappointing showing last year (live tracks and Tin Cup Prohette's cover of "Tongue), the boys made with goods this Christmas. Included on the single was my personal favorite holiday song ever, "Merry Xmas Everybody." Up top is R.E.M.'s cover, along with the Slade original. Hope you're feeling working class this holiday season!

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(April Wright)