New EP: Grapes of Grain | Christmas Grapes

A month after releasing an album, the Dutch indie pop band is back with a holiday EP

Photo courtesy of Grapes of Grain

Longtime readers may recall that I reviewed 100 new (to me) records last year. Because I’m a glutton for punishment love music, I’m doing it again this year. This is the latest in the series.

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Good morning!

Something fun for your Friday—Today we’re taking a look at the latest from Utrecht, Netherlands-based Grapes of Grain

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Grapes of Grain-Christmas Grapes (EP)

A month after releasing their third record, Painted Windows, Dutch Indie pop band Grapes Of Grain is back with a new EP. The title should tell you all you need to know about the subject matter.

For those who are new to the band, they lean heavily on influences from the likes of R.E.M. and Pavement. The opener, ‘Christmas TV (I Want The BBC),’ is a love letter to the BBC—or more specifically, the holiday programming they used to run.

From singer-songwriter Alexis Vos, “As a kid, I always looked forward to what the BBC was going to show on TV in December. They always had the best movies and specials, and I would plan my days around that.” The lyrics compare those times with today’s ways of watching movies…They call it content now, right? It’s not necessarily bad that we have unlimited viewing options now. I do miss the feeling of looking forward to watching something that is only shown once and you can’t afford to miss. The holidays are a good time to dwell in nostalgia.”

That's a fair point. I’m sure most of us have our own shows that we look forward to watching every year. I’m not saying I miss the Heat Miser, but I’m not NOT saying; it, either.

“There Is a House in the Distance” is about a place that leaves its lights up—and on— all year long. Vos says that it was inspired by (checks notes) Bruce Springsteen's “Mansion on the Hill.” Okay then. It’s a slow burner that will pull you in before you know it.

The EP closes with the ukulele-fueled “July in the Winter” and ends things on a merry note. Christmas Grapes is the perfect antidote to anyone who has heard “Last Christmas” (or similar) for the one too many-ieth time. (Bandcamp link)

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As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this record! Did I get it right, or am I way off the mark? Will you be adding any of the tracks to your holiday playlists?

Thanks for being here,

Kevin—