12 Songs Of Christmas – Day Ten
Dark Horses “Jul Song“
Over 12 (working) days, I’m suggesting 12 songs that probably don’t get the airplay they deserve this time of year and should be regarded as Christmas/Seasonal Classics.
It doesn’t mention Christmas trees, there’s no talk of snow, and not a sleigh bell in earshot. And yet, the sombre and evocative “Jul Song” by Dark Horses is a near-perfect seasonal song and has been an intrinsic part of my festive season for the past decade. There’s a sense of time passing, of transformation, of wishing for change, and while Christmas isn’t directly referenced throughout the song, it seems to encapsulate the atmosphere perfectly.
Released in 2013 as part of the “Psych-Out Christmas” compilation album, the song blends elements of psych guitars, and melancholic melodies to create a unique and beautiful end of year song.
The track opens with a distorted guitar riff and a melancholy piano line, setting the tone for a dark and introspective take on Christmas. The lyrics explore loneliness, isolation, and the bittersweet nature of the holiday season and there’s real depth and beauty that radiates through the darkness.
This year, the band returned with a brand new album, and you can read my review here