As you've no doubt noticed, we've dived headfirst into the holiday spirit around here. We've got song to string your Christmas lights to, our favorite WTF Christmas albums, and even a weekly series, "Christmas Music That Doesn't Suck" (look for installment number two tomorrow).
But we're well aware that Christmas (and Festivus) aren't the only holidays worth celebrating. Hanukkah rules, and the tale it remembers, the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt, is the stuff of action movies. (Seriously, noted friend of the Jews Mel Gibson wants to make bloody movie based on the history).
So grab a few latkes and kick back as we anticipate the sundown of Tuesday, December 20, with these eight songs to get you in the Hanukkah mood.
The Maccabeats, "Candlelight" (Taio Cruz, "Dynamite")
The Maccabean Revolt deserves way better than this cutesy, parody-pop take on the most-annoying-song-I-can't-get-out-of-my-head of the year (or last year? I feels like it's always existed). But they do seem like nice boys, so we'll let it slide.
Gods of Fire, "Eight Days of Victory"
Now we are talking! Yes! Traditional metal meets even more traditional Jewish instruments.
Kanye West, "All Of the Lights"
You know, "all of the lights" from the Menorah? (Though it's doubtful those flames will give you a headache like this video -- watch with care.)
Tom Leher, "Hanukkah in Santa Monica"
If for nothing other than the mention of spending "Rosh Hashanah in Arizona."
The Leevees, "How Do You Spell Channukkahh"
A common spelling problem for gentiles and the chosen people, from a band featuring members of Guster, The Zambonis, and rock-writer Michael Azerrad.
The Beatles, "Eight Days a Week"
Cheeky, I know. But who doesn't love this one year-round? (Rest in peace, John.)
The Dreidel Song Texas Swing Style
YouTube has little info on the band that performs this excellent Texas Swing style version of "The Dreidel Song," but I would certainly have them over for my holiday gathering.
Yo La Tengo and Jeff Tweedy, "Eight Day Weekend"
Every year, Yo La Tengo hosts the absolute coolest Hanukkah bash at Hoboken, New Jersey club Maxwell's. Past guests have included Alex Chilton, Wreckless Eric, Wyatt Cenac, Eugene Mirman, Syl Johnson, and so, so many more. It seems like a good enough time to consider a trip out to Jersey. Tickets are available now.
