Tidings of comfort & joy

For the past week I have been wandering around humming Christmas songs to myself. Needless to say this has been mildly distracting to my colleagues. However, because of my chirpy mood I did learn a new Japanese word - hanauta (はなうた) - the fact that this roughly translates as "nose singing" is perhaps the most fantastic thing I have heard all week.

Back to the point, the reason for my festive mood has something to do with the fact that a) I am looking forward to returning home for Christmas to see my family and friends and b) I've been making Christmas mix CDs.

Whilst stitching together these magnificent compilations I kept stumbling across the heart rending beautiful songs of Sufjan Stevens and his banjo. Words fail me in attempting to express just how gorgeous his music is - it feels like someone has just ripped out my heart.

If you doubt me - or think I exaggerate - then I suggest you listen to his three Christmas albums , which are a delicious treat and are guaranteed to warm your heart through the cold winter nights.

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MP3: I Saw Three Ships - Sufjin Stevens

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