Christmas albums often face skepticism, seen as either opportunistic or overly sentimental. It’s a challenge to offer a fresh take on familiar carols, and a full Christmas tour can raise even more eyebrows. What motivates an artist to dedicate so much to the season?
Thankfully, artists like Ben Folds approach Christmas as a springboard for genuine songwriting, resulting in both a new album and a compelling concert experiance. His recent “Tis the season” tour, and the album that preceded it, 2024’s “Sleigher,” demonstrate a successful path forward for holiday music. Folds delivers a remarkably holistic approach to the holidays, with only a few playful exceptions.
Folds’ suitability for this endeavor was already evident before “Sleigher.” He’d previously written several songs referencing Christmas, either directly or indirectly-enough material, combined with the new album, to form a complete setlist, even before considering any non-seasonal encores. Perhaps most famously, his late ’90s hit “Brick” recounts a deeply personal experience on December 26th. Writing a song like that as your first foray into “Christmas songs” sets a clear boundary for exploring the genre’s limits.
At a sold-out show at L.A.’s Blue Note Cafe, Folds performed “Brick” alongside other pre-existing holiday songs with a bit of an edge, like “Bizarre Christmas Incident” and “bitch Went Nutz.” However, outright subversion isn’t really his style, at least not currently. And while “Sleigher” has an irreverent title, the album leans more towards sincerity, featuring earnest songs that aren’t afraid to…
Ben Folds’ Holiday Concert: A Night of Nostalgia and Unexpected Gems
Table of Contents
Ben Folds’ annual holiday concert is a reliably charming affair, a blend of seasonal standards, piano-driven pop, and the artist’s signature wit. This year’s performance, held on December 22nd, 2023, at the historic Paramount Theater in Seattle, was no exception. The show wasn’t just a concert; it was a communal experience, a warm embrace against the winter chill.
A Familiar Yet Fresh Setlist
Folds masterfully balances the expected with the surprising. of course, classics like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Silver Bells” made an appearance, but they were delivered with Folds’ unique flair – a touch of irony, a dash of improvisation, and always, impeccable musicianship. He doesn’t simply *play* these songs; he reimagines them, making them feel both familiar and utterly fresh.
But the true magic lies in the deeper cuts and unexpected choices. This year, Folds treated the audience to a especially poignant rendition of “Brick,” a song not typically associated with the holiday season. The contrast between the song’s melancholic lyrics and the festive atmosphere created a powerful emotional resonance.
folds isn’t content to simply recycle the same setlist year after year. He consistently introduces new material, often unearthing obscure gems. This year, he surprised the audience with “You Don’t Have to Be a Santa Claus (When Christmas Comes Around),” a song dating back to at least 1955, originally recorded by the mills Brothers. He noted the song’s origins during the Great depression and its then-controversial message about extending generosity beyond Christmas.
A Moment of Raw Honesty: “Freddie’s Dead”
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was Folds’ performance of “Freddie’s Dead.” He prefaced the song with a self-deprecating anecdote about its origins, acknowledging its somewhat unconventional subject matter for a holiday concert. However, the song’s raw emotional honesty and Folds’ powerful delivery captivated the audience. It was a reminder that even amidst the joy and party, there’s room for vulnerability and reflection.
He followed this with a performance of his song “Jesus and Mary,” which he introduced as a song about the difficulties of being a teenager.
The Power of Community
What truly sets a Ben Folds holiday concert apart is the sense of community. Folds has a remarkable ability to connect with his audience, creating an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. He banters with the crowd, shares personal stories, and encourages singalongs. It feels less like a performance and more like a gathering of friends.
This feeling was particularly evident during his performance of “So There,” a song he dedicated to the “freaks” in the audience. He playfully acknowledged the diverse group of people who come to his shows, declaring them “family.”
Key Takeaways
- Ben Folds consistently delivers a unique and engaging holiday concert experience.
- he expertly blends classic holiday songs with his own material and unexpected covers.
- The concerts are characterized by folds’ wit, musicianship, and genuine connection with the audience.
- The shows offer a sense of community and inclusivity.
Ben Folds’ holiday concerts are more than just a musical event; they’re a tradition. They’re a reminder of the power of music to bring people together,to evoke emotions,and to create lasting memories. As the final notes faded and the audience dispersed into the winter night, it was clear that this year’s concert had once again delivered a dose of holiday cheer and a renewed sense of connection.
Keep reading