It’s the most wonderful time of the year again, and I’m sure you’re as sick of typical Christmas music as I am. Luckily, there’s a fresh new take on Christmas music that nobody saw coming. Christmas Songs by Bad Religion is a punk rock version of traditional Christmas classics. The band, one of the founders of Southern California style punk rock, typically writes lyrics criticizing organized religion, but as a change, they’ve decided to try their hand at very religious lyrics. It’s not ironic in the slightest, and their take on the music is very refreshing.

The album starts with “Hark! the Hareld, Angels Sing,” and surprises you by starting with an a cappella four part harmony, suddenly blasting in with blisteringly fast instruments. It’s just a blast to listen to! It’s Christmas music to get excited about. “O Come All Ye Faithful,” starts with a crazy drum fill, and the rest of the song holds up with it too. “O Come O Come Emmanuel,” has a beautiful arrangement, and the chorus is fun to scream along to at the top of your lungs. “Little Drummer Boy” captures the original’s innocence and tone, while still keeping things loud. “Angels We Heard On High” is my favorite off the album, because it puts takes all the strengths the album has and lays them all out in one triumphant song.

Overall, this album is the perfect soundtrack to the holiday season. If you want to try something new for your Christmas playlist, I’d strongly recommend this album. I have nothing negative to say about it, and it’s the most exciting rendition of traditional Christmas music that I have ever heard.