Various Artists-Holidays Rule

This compilation promises to be a favorite for those of the indie-alternative persuasion. The album has 2012 favorites Fun. as well as The Head and the Heart, Andrew Bird, The Shins and many more singing holiday classics. Holidays Rule was even graced by a cover of  “The Christmas Song”  from Paul McCartney.

Polyphonic Spree Holidaydream

The Polyphonic Spree’s holiday record contains some original material, as well as covers of classics like “Do You Hear What I Hear”, and newer standards like John Lennon’s “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)”. To top that off, the band is releasing music videos with the songs on their website, advent calendar style. When clicking on their ‘Holidaydream Videos’ link, there are a variety of already released videos and closed doors for the ones that haven’t been released yet.

Sufjan Stevens

Pitchfork favorite Sufjan Stevens gave the indie community a super-release of new and traditional holiday music of nearly 60 tracks. Spanning electronic, folk and indie rock sounds, this promises to be the most eclectic holiday release of 2012.

Lady Antebellum On This Winter’s Night

After winning the American Music Award for Best Country Group, Lady Antebellum released their holiday album On This Winter’s Night. With the success that this band has seen in the last few years, this album is sure to be a great stocking stuffer for country fans.

Colbie Callait Christmas in the Sand

Colbie Callait’s voice is already a great fit for the holidays. Her warm, breathy vocals on “Santa Baby” are best matched with a seasonal drink from Starbucks and holiday shopping. Her holiday record features tracks with Gavin DeGraw and Brad Paisley.

Cee Lo Green Magic Moment

Cee Lo Green’s career has exploded, from the Gnarls Barkley days, “Forget You” and becoming a judge on “The Voice”. Now Cee Lo is releasing his first holiday album, featuring collaborations with Christina Aguilera, Rod Stewart, and select members of The Muppets.

August Burns Red Sleddin Hill

Perhaps, for this Christian metal band, a holiday record doesn’t seem so strange. Remixing classics like “Sleigh Ride” and “Little Drummer Boy” as well as original songs, August Burns Red are finding new ways to bring head-banging to the holidays.