Winter would not be the same without Christmas music. Unfortunately, most people are only familiar with trendy, pop-based Christmas tunes.

There is an entire world of underrated songs just waiting to be listened to by the masses. I reached out to music directors Sam Anderson and Dan Carlson to create the perfect list of great Christmas songs and albums. Listed below are their recommendations.

Note: Click on any album cover below to be linked to a recording of the given recommendation

“The Dean Martin Christmas album” by Dean Martin

This album has a classic 1960’s sound. Long lyrical ballads with harmonizing background vocals, grand orchestral arrangements and Martin’s crooner-style singing blend perfectly into a great Christmas album.

“The Magic of Christmas” by Nat King Cole

Relaxing and full of classical renditions of standard Christmas tunes, Cole’s album is one that makes you want to turn on the fireplace and read a book.

“Sleigh Ride” by Harry Connick Jr.

Now, this is the kind of song you want on at your Christmas party. The medium swing Big Band arrangement of Sleigh Ride really sets the mood for a fun night, while also keeping that warm Christmas feel to it. The mellow saxes and screaming trumpets offer dynamic contrast. Connick’s fantastic voice ties everything together into a perfect track.

“Someday At Christmas” by Stevie Wonder

I mean come on… It’s Stevie. Stevie Wonder’s excellent vocals and stylish piano playing mixed with the feeling of Christmas cheer make for a great track.

“Fantasia on Greensleeves” by Ralph Vaughan Williams

William’s arrangement of the traditional English folk is written for an orchestra. The full and warm sound of an orchestra always sets the mood when the snow starts to fall.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Vince Guaraldi Trio

Out of every collection of Christmas songs in the world, this one may be the best. The songs are instantly recognizable, given that they are from “A Charlie Brown Christmas”, giving the whole album a very nostalgic vibe. What makes this album so special is its use of improvisation. Each song has some sort of improvised line, giving the listener more variety than other Christmas albums.

“Christmas Time Is Here (Instrumental)” by Vince Guaraldi Trio

Yes, this song is on “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” But, it stands out as one of the best christmas songs of all time. There is both a vocal arrangement and an instrumental arrangement. Both are amazing, but I prefer the instrumental. The gentle sound of brushes on the drum set, the soft ringing bass and the echoing piano create the perfect christmas atmosphere. Nothing will ever beat this gem of a song.

Update: 12/10/18

Post was reformatted with album art was added.