I’m not opposed to getting into the holiday spirit, but I cannot condone those who take it too far or start too early. Because it is after December 1st, it is now acceptable to listen to Christmas music (in moderation). I can only listen to the “classic” songs for so long, year after year. So, to kick off the holiday season I will share my favorite collections of X-mas music.

Last year I impulsively bought this album from Amazon. Subtitled “A Punk Rock Christmas,” the album has 20 tracks from popular punk rock bands. Notable tracks include:

• Yule Shoot Your Eye Out - Fall Out Boy
• Forget December - Something Corporate
• Christmas Time is Here - Gatsbys American Dream
• I Won’t Be Home For Christmas - Blink 182
• So This Is Christmas - Acceptance

I have never watched an episode of The OC, but I do own every soundtrack mix. Mix 3, “Chrismukkah,” features indie takes on holiday classics as well as some original songs.  Well this album is slower and possibly more relaxing than A Santa Cause, it is just as enjoyable. My favorites include:

• Last Christmas - Jimmy Eat World
• The Christmas Song - The Raveonettes
• Merry Xmas Everybody - Rooney
• Christmas Is Going To The Dogs - Eels
• Just Like Christmas - Low

Finally I’d like to call attention to The Fray’s cover of the John Lennon classic “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).” Possibly my favorite Christmas song, the vocal are perfect (minus the children singing in the background). Happy holidays!