Asthmatic Kitty compiles Sufjan Stevens’ ‘Worst Christmas Ever’ holiday music
When the holidays arrive, there is a unique magic woven into the atmosphere, often mixing nostalgia, sentimentality, and a touch of wry humor. Composer and singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens has captured this complex emotional landscape and bottled it into a festive journey with his latest compilation, Worst Christmas Ever!
Set for release on November 6, this 16-track album is a masterful collection drawn from Stevens’ extensive library of Christmas recordings, pulling treasures from box sets like Songs for Christmas and Silver & Gold. It’s more than just holiday music; it’s an intimate deep dive into the songs that define the season, reimagined through Stevens’ distinctive lens.
The project is a true celebration of collaboration. Worst Christmas Ever! features contributions from a remarkable group of artists, including Aaron and Bryce Dessner of the National, Richard Reed Parry of Arcade Fire, Cat Martino, Gabriel Kahane, Casey Foubert, James McAlister, Rosie Thomas, Marla Hansen, Olivier Manchon, Sebastian Krueger, and the family of Danielson—Elin, Lilly, and Ida Smith. These diverse voices contribute unique textures, enriching the familiar holiday framework into something wonderfully unexpected.
Adding to the album’s depth is the inclusion of a previously unheard track, On This Christmas (It Only Gets Better), offering a fresh perspective on the season’s often bittersweet joys.
The visual identity of the album is equally compelling. The cover art features a thoughtful collage created by Ben Giles, overlaid with Stevens’ signature layout and design, setting a tone that balances whimsical reflection with sophisticated artistry. The resulting package is a perfect encapsulation of the spirit of the season, delivered with Stevens’ signature sensitivity and wit.
The tracklist, ranging from classic staples like Silent Night and Joy to the World to more unique pieces such as Maoz Tzur (Rock of Ages), offers a full, satisfying festive experience. Fans can pre-order the complete collection and explore this deeply personal holiday masterpiece.
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