Holiday cheer taking a long time to sink in? Take a listen to this short but charming Merry Christmas EP from Branches. It’ll help put you in the mood for the holidays.

This mini-compilation gathers 4 songs that have become staple Christmas carols through the years and putting the Branches touch to it.

The group is made up of a bunch of “best friends-turned-bandmates.” Together they create a lovely indie folk rock sound while adding a nice home grown touch. Coupled with mostly acoustic guitars and beautiful vocals, you are sure to feel the Christmas spirit around you.

Opening with the Gospel staple track, Go Tell it to the Mountain; the band adds a lovely acoustic touch to the song. Although the song is popularly sung in church services, it’s generally celebrated as a Christmas carol since it rejoices the nativity of Christ.

It’s followed by Away in a Manger, which features solid vocals from the singers and a nice catchy guitar rhythm. One of the band’s strongpoint is their capacity to add a modern touch to the tracks. They also have a knack for keeping everything simple yet still interesting. The other cuts they covered include O Come All Ye Faithful and the ever popular, Silent Night. Both versions are equally likable with Silent Night showcasing gorgeous female vocals accompanied by quiet and melodic instrument work. Perfectly goes with that hot cup of cocoa on a lovely winter evening.

Branches is made up of Tyler Madsen, Natalie Nicoles, Jacob Montague, Tyler Goerzen, Mitchell Dong and Michael Springs. As a present for the holidays, they’re offering this mini EP absolutely free! Take a listen and enjoy!


Related Links:

Branches on BandCamp
Branches on Myspace