Squirrel Nut Zippers had a big hit years back, “Put a Lid On It,” and I’ve been a fan ever since.
In 1998 they put out a Christmas album that’s like no other: Christmas Caravan
Kooky Christmas #18: “Indian Giver” by Squirrel Nut Zippers
You know that friend who gives you a lovely sweater or new and well-reviewed book, then borrows it from you right away and never returns it? This song is for her. It barely seems like a Christmas song at all, but Santa puts in an appearance so we know it counts.
The video is a fan video with photos of the band. The sound quality is good though.
“Indian Giver” by Squirrel Nut Zippers
Kooky Christmas #17: “The Gift of the Magi”
I was introduced to the concept of irony by the O. Henry short story “The Gift of the Magi.” It nearly exploded my mind. If somehow you missed this story in high school, you can listen to this song and use it as your Cliff’s Notes.
For those who have read the story (spoilers!): I never quite dug the problem in the story. Her hair will grow back. Heck, she can grow it long, sell it again, use the money to retrieve the watch from the pawn broker, and then grow it yet again and everyone is happy. What’s the big deal? Maybe my view is different from everyone else’s; my hair grows really quickly.
No video for this one, so you’ll just have to buy the song and listen. Heck, treat yourself and buy the whole album.
Next on Kooky Christmas: Not everyone likes the gifts people give these days for Christmas.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Great call. I bought that back in ‘98 at Borders, and still faithfully bust it out every year. Their awesome rendition of “Sleigh Ride” gets me going!