LITM picks tunes ringing in Christmas and soulful tunes brought to you by Shab, Ben. E. Davis, Jehnniel, A Flock of Seagulls, Lyra Caltabiano!
Santa Baby -Shab
Christmas is here! While Mariah Carey may be defrosting, you DEFINITELY need to give this a listen! Shab's version of Santa Baby is a playful version of the holiday classic spiced with charm and sultry sophistication. Right from the first note, her voice hooks you into this modern pop version of the flirtatious undertones of the song. The arrangement is refreshingly light with jazzy touches that keep the festive spirit but allow Shab's distinct vocals to shine through.
This is what makes this version so special: Shab has been able to balance cheeky lyrics with genuine warmth. It feels both naughty and magical. It is the sort of track that simply demands to be listened to repeatedly; great for adding some fun to your holiday playlist. Looking for a little extra something this year? Ask Santa nicely, Shab's got your back!
All I Need For Christmas Is You - Ben. E. Davis
Ben E. Davis brings a rich, soulful feel to All I Need for Christmas Is You; the song becomes a staple in contemporary holiday music. Smoothing out the emotions in his voice immediately sets the tone for this song, telling a story that's both personal and universal - love and longing. This is slickly polished, full and festive instrumentation with subtle sleigh bells, warm piano chords, and a hint of gospel influence that captures the feel of the season.
And, what makes this song just great is that it tells an authentic tale, not delivering only the holiday cheer, but infusing that warm cozy feeling at heart. You feel when you hear Davis sing you're all I need getting all wrapped up in musical hug. A must-have for your Christmas playlist—it just goes to say that the greatest gift of all might just be love.
Sun - Jehnniel
Jehnniel's Sun is a soul-moving anthem that feels like being given a warm hug on a cool day. Velvety vocals shine with full vibrancy, as effortlessly wove into the plush and ambient backdrop of a warm, gentle guitar strum, with warm atmospheric sounds in the background. Such subtle beauty makes this a both soothing and powerful single through its simplicity.
The lyrics of Sun speak about renewal and perseverance, reminding the listeners that after all the dark storms, light always finds its way through. Jehnniel has such a beautiful connection with her audience, and each lyric is very personal and heartfelt.
If you’re searching for a track that inspires introspection and comfort, Sun is a glowing addition to any playlist—a gentle reminder that hope is always just around the corner.
Some Dreams- A Flock of Sea Gulls
Some Dreams by A Flock of Seagulls is a shimmering new wave, but through nostalgic eyes, merged into today's energy, reminding the listeners why the band's sound endures to this very day. It carries their vintage synth-driven melodies layered over these massive guitars and atmospheric productions sounding both retro and refreshingly modern at the same time.
The song vocally has an emotional impact: yearning, hope, and introspection all ring through. Chasing dreams and holding onto that spark of dreams are common themes that everyone can understand.
It's one of those tracks that carries you, with its lush arrangement and infectious rhythm, into a place where the past meets the future.
Some Dreams is a great proof of A Flock of Seagulls' staying power and ability to inspire through music. Add it to your playlist for an uplifting escape!
Night Creatures - Lyra Caltabiano
Lyra Caltabiano's Night Creatures is hauntingly beautiful, a journey into the ethereal and mysterious. Its atmosphere of production brings alive all the nocturnal landscapes from soft, brooding instrumentation to the voice of this enchanting Lyra with her delicate yet commanding voice carrying on a mesmerizing quality which may feel both intimate and otherworldly.
The lyrics are about freedom, darkness, and the mystique of the unknown. That's the poetic version of "night creatures." With soft crescendos and electronic elements subtly interlaced, it creates depth, thus creating an experience that will leave the listener long after the song has ended.
It's perfect for moonlit musings or late-night introspective moments. Night Creatures is a spellbinding addition to Lyra Caltabiano's repertoire, proof that she can really write songs that feel like sonic magic.