SUFJAN STEVENS Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Sufjan Stevens' sprawling holiday collection, now available in a stunning six-vinyl package, proudly shows the artist's whimsical genius and profound creativity. Picking up from his earlier, ambitious anthology, this collection reimagines classic Christmas songs with playful audacity and emotional depth. Stevens transforms 'Let It Snow!' into a haunting duet that evokes ghostly reflections, while 'I'll Be Home for Christmas' is delivered with a haunting detachment, as if drifting through a dream. Tracks like 'Jingle Bells' and 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas' take on a psychedelic twist and 'Do You Hear What I Hear?' evolves into an exhilarating nine-minute drum & bass epic. Amid these reworkings, Stevens also honours timeless hymns with earnest renditions that retain their original charm. The entire collection reflects a joyous spirit that balances the season's commercialism with a genuine sense of hope and connection. From the spirited garage rock of 'Mr Frosty Man' to the ethereal beauty of 'Christmas in the Room', Stevens' originals shine brightly. The grand finale, 'Christmas Unicorn', begins as a playful folk tune before erupting into a euphoric chorus, weaving in echoes of Joy Division. This remarkable anthology is a delightful journey through festive sounds that invites listeners to embrace the joy of the season with open hearts.