Merge Records Announces New Holiday Compilation Album Snowed In
The label releases a seasonal collection featuring original tracks and classic covers.
1Seasonal Compilation Release
Merge Records is launching a new holiday compilation album titled Snowed In this Friday, November 13. The digital release aims to provide seasonal music for listeners as daylight hours shorten. This collection serves as a follow-up to the label's previous 2019 holiday project, which was titled You Wish.
2Original Track Contributions
The album features several original songs recorded specifically for this project. Notable contributions include The New Pornographers with their track Some Wings and Superchunk performing Shortest Day of the Year. These original compositions distinguish the compilation from traditional holiday albums that rely exclusively on standard covers of well-known seasonal songs.
3Diverse Artist Lineup
A wide range of artists from the Merge Records roster participated in the project. The tracklist includes Charlotte Cornfield performing Jingle Bells and Fruit Bats covering O! Holy Night. Additionally, label newcomer Elanor Moss provides a rendition of Judee Sill’s song Jesus Was a Cross Maker, adding variety to the record.
4Full Tracklist Details
The complete album consists of eleven tracks spanning various musical styles. The sequence begins with Charlotte Cornfield and concludes with Rosali performing The Cherry Tree Carol. Other featured artists include Case Oats, Telekinesis, Mike Krol, The Tubs, and Dawn Richard, ensuring a broad representation of the label's current musical talent.
5Label Strategy Context
Holiday compilations are a common industry practice for independent labels to engage their fanbase during the fourth quarter. By mixing original material with recognizable holiday standards, Merge Records creates a product that appeals to both long-term fans and casual listeners seeking festive music, while highlighting the diversity of their roster.
6Digital Distribution Focus
The album is being released exclusively in a digital format, reflecting the current shift in music consumption patterns. This approach allows for immediate global availability on streaming platforms starting November 13. Digital-only releases also reduce production overhead for independent labels while maintaining a consistent presence in the competitive holiday music market.
7Artist Spotlight: The Tubs
Among the highlights of the compilation is a brand-new song by The Tubs titled I Am an Elf. This track represents the band's contribution to the seasonal theme, showcasing their unique sound within the context of holiday music. Such tracks often serve as promotional tools for artists during the winter.
8Legacy of Holiday Projects
Snowed In continues the tradition established by the 2019 release You Wish. These projects demonstrate how independent labels curate seasonal content to maintain brand identity throughout the year. By inviting established acts like Superchunk alongside newer signings, the label reinforces its community-focused approach to music production and seasonal artistic expression.
Original article: Pitchfork – News — Merge Records Announces New Holiday Compilation Album Snowed In