Ben Folds Surprises Fans with His First Christmas Album, *Sleigher*
Renowned musician Ben Folds is adding a fresh twist to the holiday music scene with his eagerly awaited first-ever Christmas album, titled *Sleigher*. Set for release on October 25th by New West Records, this album promises listeners a unique journey through seasonal sounds. Moving away from the typical jingle bell tracks, Folds offers a deeply personal interpretation of Christmas, delving into themes of time, memory, and personal evolution.
The album consists of a tantalizing mix of seven original songs complemented by three reimagined holiday classics. Among the classics, listeners will find recognizable tunes such as Mel Tormé and Robert Wells' 'The Christmas Song,' Burt Bacharach's 'The Bell That Couldn’t Jingle,' and The Mills Brothers' 'You Don’t Have to Be a Santa Claus.' While these titles suggest familiarity, Folds' treatment gives them new life, incorporating his signature style and artistic vision.
Exploring Themes Through Music
What sets *Sleigher* apart is its reflective nature. According to Folds himself, Christmas serves as a constant ritual, allowing individuals to pause and evaluate how much life has changed over the year. It's more than just an album of festive cheer; it's an exploration of life's different chapters and the societal shifts we experience alongside them. Folds elaborates, 'Christmas is constant... Allowing you to take stock of what's different, to understand who you are and all the ways you've grown and changed.'
The album also collaborates with notable names like actress and songwriter Lindsey Kraft, who joins Folds on the poignant duet 'We Could Have This.' Their combined voices create a melodious reflection on shared experiences and cherished moments which resonate with the album's overarching theme.
Already Winning Hearts
As a teaser for what’s to come, two tracks from the album have already been released. Folds’ stripped-back rendition of 'The Christmas Song' showcases his ability to breathe new life into a beloved classic. Meanwhile, 'We Could Have This' stands out as a heartwarming original duet that highlights the collaborative spirit of the album.
Through *Sleigher*, Ben Folds is not just giving fans something to listen to during the holiday season; he's providing a unique soundtrack for introspection, nostalgia, and the celebration of growth. This album is bound to be a conversation piece, giving listeners much to reflect and comment on beyond the music itself.