Pistol Annies' Christmas Album: A Heartwarming Gift For The Holidays

What a gift we received this year when the Pistol Annies put out a Christmas album!Hell of a Holiday was released on Oct. 22, and it sounds like it might have been a bit unexpected to the artists, too. The trio, made up of Miranda Lambert, Ashley Monroe, and Angaleena Presley, brought their unique country flair to the holiday season, creating a delightful mix of original songs and classic covers.

In a recent interview with People, Ashley Monroe and Angaleena Presley shared that while they were excited about the project, Miranda Lambert initially had reservations. Feeling burnt out on traditional Christmas music, Lambert wasn't interested in recording the same old songs that everyone else was doing. However, after listening to Sia's album Everyday Is Christmas, Lambert experienced a change of heart, realizing that fresh and original music could reignite her love for the holiday spirit.

Much to the delight of Monroe and Presley, Lambert's newfound enthusiasm led to the creation of Hell of a Holiday. The album features ten original tracks, including the title song, along with three beloved classics: "Sleigh Ride," "Auld Lang Syne," and Merle Haggard's "If We Make it Through December." The Pistol Annies faced the challenge of adding their own country spin to these timeless tunes, but they embraced the creative process wholeheartedly. As Lambert put it, they weren't going to force anything; they just wanted to capture the true essence of the holiday spirit.

As the Annies gathered at Lambert's house in the fall of 2020, the atmosphere was festive. With a Christmas tree already set up, they donned holiday sweaters and crafted hot toddies, setting the stage for inspiration. The first song they wrote, "Happy Birthday," became their guiding light for the project. Monroe emphasized the importance of considering how their music would resonate with listeners, underscoring the power of Christmas music in making cherished memories each year.

• The first single, "Snow Globe," was written during a lunch break while they were recording.
• Track No. 9, "Believing," has become a favorite among fans for its childlike innocence.
• Monroe reflected on their responsibility to bring joy into people's homes through their music.

As we dive into the festive tunes of Hell of a Holiday, we can't help but feel inspired by the Pistol Annies' commitment to creating a unique and heartfelt Christmas experience. This album is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of the joy, love, and warmth that the holiday season brings. So grab a hot toddy, put on your favorite Christmas sweater, and let the music of Pistol Annies fill your home with holiday cheer!