Each family has its idiosyncrasies around Christmas season. Our family happens to partake in a yearly sharing of Christmas music, both old and new. Occasionally, there will be singing. This past weekend, my brother and friends shared our Christmas cheer at the famed McSorleys’ Old Ale House in the East Village (light and dark beer are the only drinks they serve). We partook in some amateur caroling while hoisting our drinks on top of wooden benches and tables…the same tables my Grandfather drank at in the 1960’s.

While Christmas music has its detractors (given the clear commercial exploitation of the season), this time of year always make me nostalgic about those who are no longer with us, but who equally enjoyed these same damn tunes. In that spirit, I have compiled a small list of some of my favorites for your enjoyment, both old and new. Merry Christmas.