Note: I hit “publish” instead of “preview”, so this was released about 8 hours early.
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Non-traditional, indeed, but I’m not a Silent Night kind of guy.
My favorite, contemporary Christmas song, like #2, is also written by Ian Anderson, of the band, Jethro Tull. I will admit, Tull isn’t exactly a band you think of when someone asks you about Christmas music, but that’s part of what makes it intriguing.
“Sharp ears are tuned in to the drones and chanters warming
Mist blowing round some headland, somewhere in your memory”
Our oldest daughter, now 30, was an infant when this record was released. What drew me to to the song originally was the reference to “a Polish factory town”, recalling my ancestral roots. Now, with three decades of parenting in the rearview mirror, I see myself as the old man calling his children home. We are fortunate that this year, all three daughters will be here on Christmas day.
I regret, however, that I will not be with my parents in NJ.
“Everyone is from somewhere
Even if you’ve never been there”
The song is from the Rock Island album and I’ve provided a version with the lyrics so maybe you can find some of the same connections.
“Old man is asleep now
Got appointments to keep now
Dreaming of his sons and daughters, and proving
Proving that the blood is strong”
Mitigating Chaos 
Jethro Tull always hits the heart string. Hope your Christmas was jolly!
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I wasn’t familiar with this music and I’m intrigued. I have a soft spot for Jethro Tull. This year I tuned into Sufjan Stevens for some alternative Christmas music. I’ve enjoyed him long before now, but this year I seemed particularly drawn in that direction–for some reason. My oldest child turned 45 Christmas Eve. I had to take a “gulp” at that one. 🙂 I missed saying Merry Christmas, but I am just in time to wish you a very happy and healthy New Year, Ray. All the best to you and your family.
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