The Cosmic Culture Club

Christmas Everywhere

December 2, 2023

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Rodney Crowell

Overview

This isn’t a typical Christmas album, not by a long shot. It’s all original songs for one thing – there is no re-hashing of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” happening here. It’s not full of happy jingles either. Christmas is a setting for the album, but not the theme. The songs are about life happening against the backdrop of Christmas which is…everywhere. Don’t play this one at the Christmas party.

Vibe

These are well-crafted ballads that you want to pay attention to. Unlike most Christmas albums, there is a story in these songs, and it’s an interesting one. The music is diverse, interesting, and played by talented musicians. It’s an album for a cold December night when you are alone and thoughtful.

Companion Album

Like Christmas Everywhere, Decoration Day is steeped in raw, emotional storytelling, making it the perfect continuation of a contemplative evening. It’s more songs about life, death, and most of the things in between. The Truckers are some of the best storytellers out there, and on Decoration Day they feature three distinguished songwriters in Patterson Hood, Mike Cooley, and Jason Isbell. Each of them provide a distinct perspective that provides depth and emotion to the recording.

Old Fashioned

On the title track, Crowell sings, “Mommy wants the kitchen sink, Daddy wants a stiffer drink.” We can help with the last request. A non-traditional Christmas album calls for a non-traditional and brooding cocktail—the Old Fashioned.

Ingredients

2 oz whiskey
3-4 dashes bitters
1 sugar cube
1 tsp water
Orange twist and cherry (for garnish)

Directions

Place the sugar cube in a mixing glass and wet with bitters and water. Muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
Add whiskey and ice and stir well.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with an orange twist and cherry.

Holiday Album

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Holiday Lounge

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