Blossoms - Christmas Eve (Soul Purpose)/It's Going To Be A Cold Winter

46 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!

Buy-stream the new Christmas songs here (external link)

There is something about the new double-A sided single from ace UK indie-rock combo Blossoms. It is not just that the two new songs, Christmas Eve (Soul Purpose) and It's Going To Be A Cold Winter, take me away from the gloomy reality of Lockdown 2; it is that they transport me back to those halcyon days when I would rush down to Woolworths and peruse the latest 7" singles to see what tickled my fancy. There was a heady rush in buying something unknown, dashing (through the snow) home and listening to it for the first time. For the nostalgic amongst you, you will be pleased to know that there is a 7" vinyl single currently available on the band's website (at the link above). However you listen to it, you're gifted with 2 dazzling festive songs to help make your season merry and bright...

• Christmas Eve (Soul Purpose) ~ this is exactly the type of song we should be campaigning to be the Christmas number one in 2020. With a lush, textured score driven by engaging guitar riffs and jingling percussion, this has vivid, reflective lyrics with a huge sing-along chorus. Like a modern day ABBA with I Have A Dream, the lads have bought along the Stockport Junior Voices choir to add a sprinkling of magic that really elevates the convivial vibe of the song. There is this glorious crescendo as the song progresses - not in sound but in the emphatic delivery of the words and the layering of chimes and organ effects. It gives it a rousing anthem feel to it which is deliciously contagious.
• It's Going To Be A Cold Winter ~ the church bells are ringing on this juxtaposition between a decidedly festive accompaniment and wry, observant lyrics about those who don't necessarily feel all the sparkle of what (for many) is the most wonderful time of the year. There's a definite infusion of humour and matter of fact resignation about the expectation of the season, sung with vibrant personality. There's something brilliantly cathartic about singing along - like having a good ol' grouse with your mates over a beer at your local (currently locked down) pub. This is the best alternative to that and fair puts a spring in your step.