The Utz Factor, Christmas Edition, Part 5

'Remember' by Trans Siberian Orchestra

I'm not sure I can pick a favorite TSO Christmas song. They each have their own unique flair. But this one seems appropriate as the Christmas season draws to a close. This song is a perfect storm for me - steady beat, choirs, melody and counter-melody and harmony. I always listen and feel satisfied, like I've accomplished something.

It's a good feeling.






Not sure if I'll continue this series. Lord knows, I have enough songs to go years. We'll see what happens.

The Utz Factor, Christmas Edition, Part 4

'Stille Nacht' by Mannheim Steamroller

I like most of MS' stuff to be honest. But this song is just about the most peaceful thing I can think of. It's part of my playlist for Christmas Eve, playing as we read about the birth of Jesus in Luke, preferably by a fire with the flames and tree lights the only light going. The combination of strings and quiet vocals is incredibly calming. And then the ending comes, and it's just that right touch of different for me.

Beautiful.

The Utz Factor, Christmas Edition, Part 3

'Carol of the Bells' by EVERYONE EVER

This is probably my favorite Christmas song ever. I say probably because there are one or two that come pretty close and do occasionally usurp the position. But it's consistently in the top three. I like it because it sounds awesome whether you play it in a major or minor key. It's repetitive without being annoying, and you can find some amazing harmonies. I have about 15 versions of this song in iTunes. I don't think I have a favorite - everyone seems to find a fresh spin on it. I think I like it so much because it's so happy - Christmas is here! How awesome is that?!

(And take some time to check out Pentatonix - they have some really cool stuff!)

The Utz Factor, Christmas Edition, Part 2

'Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays' by *N Sync

I know. Believe me, I know. But this song was probably my first experience of a Christmas song that wasn't actually traditional. It's very happy and upbeat, and it has a decent message. And the harmony! Oh, the harmony!

So shush.

The Utz Factor, Christmas Edition, Part 1

'The Winter's End' by ??????

Obviously, there are about a million utzy songs at Christmas. Christmas oozes with utz. That's the whole point. But over the years, I've found a few Christmas-ish jingles that fall outside the norm but still warm the cockles of one's heart. Which is just weird.

Wouldn't you know, this first song would be a doozy to find a reference for. I'm only 85% certain it's actually called 'The Winter's End,' and I don't remember where I found it. I just know it's pretty and perfect for a snowy afternoon with tree lights twinkling softly.

Listen Music Files - Share Audio - 04 The Winter's End

Peace on Earth, and Good Will Toward Men

I spend the whole month of December prior to the 25th thinking about a little baby in a manger, his too-young mom overwhelmed at the thought of raising God, his not-so dad wondering if he'll ever be able to teach him anything, the wise men making a trek across hundreds of miles in the hopes of finding something greater than themselves and the shepherds who will never forget that night, but who will also never fully know its significance.

But then it comes to the actual day, and I think about a crown of thorns. I think about that baby all grown up and being beaten and nailed to a cross because He loves us so much, despite everything we have done, are doing and will continue to do against Him. He left all the majesty and glory of Heaven to take on flesh - disgusting, bloody, disease-prone humanity.

He died that we might live.

I urge you this Christmas to think beyond the manger. The story doesn't stop at Luke 2.

(Incidentally, neither do most of the great Christmas hymns. They are always looking ahead.)

1. It came upon the midnight clear,
that glorious song of old,
from angels bending near the earth
to touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, good will to men,
from heaven's all-gracious King."
The world in solemn stillness lay,
to hear the angels sing.

2. Still through the cloven skies they come
with peaceful wings unfurled,
and still their heavenly music floats
o'er all the weary world;
above its sad and lowly plains,
they bend on hovering wing,
and ever o'er its Babel sounds
the blessed angels sing.

3. And ye, beneath life's crushing load,
whose forms are bending low,
who toil along the climbing way
with painful steps and slow,
look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
and hear the angels sing!

4. For lo! the days are hastening on,
by prophet seen of old,
when with the ever-circling years
shall come the time foretold
when peace shall over all the earth
its ancient splendors fling,
and the whole world send back the song
which now the angels sing.

Merry Christmas.