Picture
I am astounded by the volume and variety of Christmas music that is available. A quick glance through my collection alone reveals representatives from nearly every genre: punk, jazz, pop, experimental, garage, surf, heavy metal, reggae… and the list goes on. Sometimes a band chooses to put its unique stamp on an old classic. Other times they deliver a completely original composition destined to be a classic in its own right. I’m a rabid fan of both endeavors, and always looking for new releases to add to the collection.
Picture
On November 25 1977, The Kinks unleashed their contribution—or as some would say, antidote—to the canon of seasonal songs. “Father Christmas” begins innocently enough with the requisite sleigh bells and tinkly piano but that is soon shredded to pieces by Dave Davies’ guitar riff, Henry Spinetti’s rapid-fire drumming, and a dose of Ray Davies irreverence and honest social commentary. I know some people find the storyline in “Father Christmas” to be antithetical to their cherished holiday, but I love it’s unabashed, in-your-face-humor—not to mention its rambunctious guitar riff and catchy chorus. I also appreciate the momentary pause amidst the mayhem at the end of the song where Ray implores us to take a moment to remember those less fortunate than ourselves at a time of the year when being less fortunate is magnified at every turn. 
I don’t recall seeing the video for “Father Christmas” until long after I had worn out a few copies of the single. When I finally did stumble across, it on a MTV Christmas countdown, I couldn’t have been happier. The video captures the spirit of the song perfectly. It begins with a xylophone shot through silvery, soft-focus tinsel and ornaments on a tree. The camera slowly pulls back, and then all hell breaks loose. Amidst an incessant flurry of fake snow, the band rips through the song with goofy grins and ill-fitting santa costumes and beards that look like they may have just been stolen from a couple of unsuspecting Salvation Army volunteers. Both Ray and Dave ham it up big time, mugging to the camera as they try to keep their beards and hats in place and “snowflakes” out of their mouths while they bounce around the recording studio decorated with garland and lights.

The Kinks “Father Christmas” has always been one of my favorite Yuletide rockers. It’s a holiday song with unseasonal attitude and that’s why it’s the Happy Medium Song of the Day. 
(Please use the comments box to share your thoughts.)