Marked by the beginning of December and the illumination of twinkling lights, it’s obvious the holidays are near. Kaskade, longstanding electronic dance music (EDM) producer, was in the giving spirit and dug into a new realm in which electronic music never has touched before: Christmas tunes. What would Michael Bublé think?
The thirteen-track album features Skylar Grey, Late Night Alumni, Ilsey, Gabrielle Current, Erika, Jane XO and Dia Frampton. Some familiar Christmas favorites include “Santa Baby,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Deck the Halls” and “Silent Night.”
“Deck the Halls” starts with a hypnotizing vocal followed by the infamous Flume-like sounds. Almost jazz-like and sultry, the songs along with the whole of the rest present a very unique take on the Christmas spirited music.
Many of the vocalists featured in the album are familiar to Kaskade listeners. “Disarm You” features Ilsey, who is featured on “Silent Night.”
Along with revivals of classics through reworks, Kaskade created new tracks such as “This Christmas Night,” “The First Noel” and “Cold December.”
Among the favorites are “Santa Baby” with the sultry voice and classic melody, the slowed-down “Deck the Halls” and more. The entirety of the album keeps the theme of classic, twinkly music that fits the mood for a hot chocolate and family by the living room.
While many may stick with their passed down traditions, others may choose to create new ones that set the holiday spirit alive with the chill electronic melody that Kaskade provides.
Overall, I think this album is a great new tradition for people that like listening to more upbeat yet smooth music. The updated songs are interesting but don’t take away from the heart of the message, which is to embrace the giving spirit of Christmas with others.
4/5 stars.
Alejandra Solorio can be reached at [email protected] or @alesolorio8