Christian rock and metal bands take a distinctive approach to covering classics and creating original Christmas-themed songs. They combine the energy of their genres with the holiday season's timeless themes. Their covers of traditional carols often transform familiar melodies into powerful, high-energy anthems that appeal to fans of heavier music while still honoring the original spiritual or festive messages.
These reinterpretations can breathe new life into beloved classics, making them accessible to audiences who prefer rock or metal. I like the rock world and love finding new covers and original songs. So, here are some of the newer releases from the last few years that I wanted to highlight and share with you.
Seventh Day Slumber - "In The Bleak Midwinter"
Veteran rock band Seventh Day Slumber has achieved a lot over the past twenty years by tirelessly releasing rock music that seeks to help people and introduce them to Christ. Some of their albums are worship-focused, and some are more rock-focused. However, they have also recorded some Christmas singles through the years. The most recent, released in 2023, is "In The Bleak Midwinter," a beautiful rendition of a 150-year-old classic.
Wolves At The Gate - "Lowborn"
Famous rock act Wolves At The Gate released an epic Christmas-themed song titled "The King" shortly after forming in 2012. Since then, fans have wanted more. They finally delivered in 2022 with a mix of originals and covers. And even better, they just created an instrumental version of the EP. "Lowborn" highlights the often overlooked side of the Christmas story: many were anxiously waiting to hear from God and for the messiah to be born for many years before Christ was born.
A Hill To Die Upon - "We Three Kings"
One of the most unique and hauntingly heavy Christmas releases in recent times is The Black Nativity from death metal band A Hill To Die Upon. This album is a unique experience, featuring some spoken wording, instrumentals, covers of Christmas classics, and originals. All of it is intense, primarily black metal heaviness. If you want more aggression in your Christmas music, listen to this album, and you won't be disappointed.
Magdalene Rose - "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays"
One of the most surprising covers I've heard comes from Magdalene Rose, the rising metalcore princess formerly of Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh. This boy band *N-SYNC cover is repackaged in her metalcore style and showcases more of her singing abilities rather than her scream vocals. It's a fun and well-made song with a nasty breakdown in the bridge you'll love.
Switchfoot - "California Christmas"
Most people have light-hearted and warm memories of Christmas, and when I think about a band that makes me feel like that, I often think of the famous rock band Switchfoot. Their easy-going San Diego beach-loving vibes are great any time of year. Because of that, their own Christmas album is something special. They call it this is our Christmas album. It's pretty simple, but it's a real treat you must listen to.
Ryan Adams is the rock reporter at NRT. He lives with his family in central California with his spoiled-rotten dog.
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