You should check out these lesser-known Christmas tracks.

As the holidays approach, Christmas tunes become truly omnipresent. I mean, I appreciate Mariah Carey and Wham! just as much as anyone. Nevertheless, at a certain point, you become really weary of constantly hearing the same few holiday tracks repeatedly. Therefore, here are 10 recommendations to enhance your holiday playlist that are, hopefully, a touch less conventional.

There is a substantial tradition of downbeat Christmas songs, ranging from Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” to The Pogues’ “Fairytale of New York.” Yet, no yuletide tune is more likely to dampen spirits than “Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis.” The surprise at the conclusion is precisely what will prompt everyone to stow the gifts back under the tree because they feel too down to unwrap anything.

I appreciate the traditional Bing Crosby and David Bowie version of this track, but it has played excessively. Lindstrøm captures the unyielding nature of the marching drum beat, teasing out the tune into a dreamlike gradual build that ultimately culminates in a cosmic disco explosion. There are multiple edits of this piece, from sub-five-minutes to the 20-minute version featured here (which is probably the best fit for your holiday playlist). However, I lean toward the full 42-minute interpretation.

This piece serves as the serene counterpart to the Lindstrøm track mentioned earlier. Featuring soothing, meditative synths, jingling sleigh bells, and relaxed rhythms. If your only Christmas wish is to attain a peaceful trance-like state, then add this song to your queue.

In my opinion, there is a shortage of hardcore holiday tracks. The eponymous David from “David Christmas” eventually became the focal character in Fucked Up’s acclaimed rock opera David Comes to Life. “David Christmas” contains sleigh bells, nods to the Grinch, and the first Noel. It’s a unique Christmas track that may have you attempting to form a mosh pit around the tree.

There is a surprising amount of holiday songs centered around infidelity. (Consider Clarence Carter’s “Back Door Santa” and, from a child’s perspective, “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.”) However, They Might Be Giants’ “Santa’s Bear” is a lesser-known tune that combines the duo’s signature irreverence with a narrative of a woman displaying her affair to her husband. Additionally, her lover is dressed as Santa.

I have to say — American holiday traditions are uninspiring. Germany and central Europe have Krampus, the Welsh have Mari Lwyd, while Iceland features Jólakötturinn, or the Yule Cat. Jólakötturinn is a gigantic feline that roams the countryside, devouring individuals who do not receive new clothing for Christmas. This myth supposedly encourages diligence and preparation. In 1988, Iceland’s greatest gift to the world, Björk, recorded a song about this being that features such festive phrases as:

His hair sharp as needles

His back was high and bulgy

And the claws on his hairy paw

Were not a pretty sight

The slowcore pioneers Low released a complete Christmas album in 1999, aptly named Christmas. “Just Like Christmas” is likely the most accessible track on the album, moving at a quicker pace than a lot of the band’s work. However, it still highlights the group’s knack for delicate melodies alongside the late Mimi Parker’s soothing vocals, eventually fading away as cascading avalanches of drums surround her.

A charming song encouraging someone to lighten up and enjoy themselves.

Stop mumbling and cheer up

Put down the book, pick beer up

Why sit in your dark and lonely room?

Must your every word be sincere?

Moreover, nonchalantly referring to Santa Claus as “Sandy” is pure brilliance.

A fresh addition to the Christmas soul genre that can compete with James Brown’s “Santa Claus Go Straight To The Ghetto.” “Ain’t No Chimneys in the Projects” boasts plenty of rhythm, exquisite strings, and an impressive horn section. This short piece emphasizes that the magic of Christmas is brought to you by devoted parents rather than some jolly stranger in a red outfit.

We’ve all encountered disappointing holidays when we didn’t receive the presents we desired. 100 Gecs tap into the idea of getting back at Santa and taking what you want in this lighthearted hyperpop-punk anthem. It’s a riot, featuring a catchy “la-la-la” in the post-chorus. Maybe save this one for the less appreciative children, though.