Have Yourself a Folky Little Christmas, Day 3
Holiday-Themed Song of the Day: "American Noel":
By Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer, from their Gentle Arms of Eden EP. Dave Carter was one of the most gifted songwriters of our time. His lyrics, while often loquatious, are beautiful and honest, and his melodies are simple and pure. His pairing with Tracy was magical, albeit unfortunately short-lived. This tune came from a Solstice compilation recorded the year before Carter's death.
Strange Solstice Factoid:
Because it is the shortest day of the year, and thus the beginning of a period when the days begin getting longer and brighter, the Solstice is often celebrated as the rebirth of the sun. The ancient Romans referred to Winter Solstice as "The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun," or Dies Natalis Invicti Solis.
Holiday Tradition of the Day:
The ancient Roman pagans celebrated solstice by stringing evergreen branches and holly along the walls of their homes, to signify good luck. They also gave rest for the day to all schools, soldiers, and executions.
Gift of the Day:
Wonderland: A Winter Solstice Celebration (Signature Sounds, 2002). This compilation CD features some of the most fantastic singer/songwriters around, including Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer, Peter Mulvey, and Erin McKeown, performing mostly original tunes.
By Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer, from their Gentle Arms of Eden EP. Dave Carter was one of the most gifted songwriters of our time. His lyrics, while often loquatious, are beautiful and honest, and his melodies are simple and pure. His pairing with Tracy was magical, albeit unfortunately short-lived. This tune came from a Solstice compilation recorded the year before Carter's death.
Strange Solstice Factoid:
Because it is the shortest day of the year, and thus the beginning of a period when the days begin getting longer and brighter, the Solstice is often celebrated as the rebirth of the sun. The ancient Romans referred to Winter Solstice as "The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun," or Dies Natalis Invicti Solis.
Holiday Tradition of the Day:
The ancient Roman pagans celebrated solstice by stringing evergreen branches and holly along the walls of their homes, to signify good luck. They also gave rest for the day to all schools, soldiers, and executions.
Gift of the Day:
Wonderland: A Winter Solstice Celebration (Signature Sounds, 2002). This compilation CD features some of the most fantastic singer/songwriters around, including Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer, Peter Mulvey, and Erin McKeown, performing mostly original tunes.