Christmas Playlist

In the spirit of the season, here's a list of five songs which, to me, are essential Yuletide listening:-

1. From "Christmas With The Vandals", Gun for Christmas always puts a smile on my face and appeals to my inner punk.

2. Not a "Christmas song" in the traditional sense, but Frankie Goes to Hollywood's The Power of Love is a superb piece of art, by a phenomenal act and it was number one in the UK singles chart in early December 1984.

3. "It's Christmas so we'll stop" by Frightened Rabbit. Taking us to the place where sobering reality lives with a haunting, beautiful melody.

4. Mogwai may be an acquired taste for some, but no-one can accomplish soundscapes and dreamlike atmosphere quite like them, as demonstrated in "Christmas Song".

5. Death Cab For Cutie seem to slot nicely into the indie kid bracket, but their song writing prowess is above reproach and they can turn their brand of melancholic love song to the Festive season with aplomb, such as on "Christmas (Baby please come home)".