Various
Happy Christmas Vol. 1
BEC Records
1998

The king of Christian alternative music, Brandon Ebel has finally put out the alternative Christmas record. As the liner notes say this is something he's always wanted to do. And now he's done it with style. The album features 18 Christmas favorites, ranging from the classics like 'Joy to the World' and 'Away in a Manger' to newer favorites like 'Holly Jolly Christmas' and 'Winter Wonderland,' and even includes six original tunes. If you're getting tired of the traditional versions of all your best loved Christmas songs, this CD is for you. Styles range from ska to techno and has something for just about everyone--that is, as long as you like alternative music.

The Supertones' ska version of 'Joy to the World' has to be one of the best on the album. They certainly put the joy in the song. Surprisingly, Plankeye puts a nice rock n' roll edge to 'Away in a Manger.' I never knew you could do that to such a classic. But it still sounds good. Five Iron Frenzy does a fun version of Rich Mullins' 'You Gotta Get Up.' Switchfoot put out a surprisingly good original song, 'Evergreen' and Seven Day Jesus does a slow, guitar laden mix of 'O Holy Night.'

Overall: If you like different styles, and want something a little different to jam to this year, this is the Christmas CD for you. (Kevin H.)

Happy Christmas Vol. 1 includes:
The Supertones "Joy To The World"
Joy Electric "Winter Wonderland"
Chasing Furies "O Come Emmanuel"
Starflyer 59 "A Holiday Song"
Five Iron Frenzy "You Gotta Get Up"
Sarah Masen "Heaven's Got a Baby"
Plankeye "Away In a Manger"
Almonzo "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"
Pep Squad "Feliz Navidad"
Bon Voyage "Holly Jolly Christmas"
Seven Day Jesus "O Holy Night"
One Eighty "Mele Kalikimaka"
Switchfoot "Evergreen"
House of Wires "Do You Hear What I Hear"
Fold Zandura "Asia Minor"
Huntingtons "It's Always Christmas At My House"
The Dingees "We Three Kings"
Puller "Saviour Of the Fools"