Today, we are doing a special second post! We wanted to highlight these versions in particular as they were recorded just for us!


Oh, how we love Max, aka Applied Communications. This was recorded live on Dec. 20th on a rooftop in Guadalajara, Mexico. What’s interesting is this is the first version to our knowledge that includes a bit from the lost-love’s perspective. Also, I’m not sure if Max planned this, but the dog barking in the background really adds a level of dejection that the original version seems to need. It’s brief but brilliant! You can see the video of the event here.

Of his current projects, Max says, “I have a brand new 6 song EP called “III”, I’m currently on a tour of the US and Mexico (about half of which is with my good buddy emperor x), and my website has a ton of free mp3s. Life is awesome.”

Applied Communications – Last Christmas


Matt Saunders has this to say about his band’s version:

“I was actually planning on recording a version of Wham!‘s “Last Christmas” before I came across your site. I was aware of maybe one or two covers… but I don’t think I would have ever guessed around 150. At first, I was dismayed that so many people had covered it, but then after giving it some thought, I decided to go through with it and be a part of something special. This song really is a little gem… This track is also located at the myspace of my band, Bear Flag Revolt. It used to be a full band that played indie pop/rock tunes, but we’re going through some turnover right now. I’m currently trying to sort of re-imagine the band’s sound. We’ve been on a little hiatus this past month, but I wanted to give myself a project and ‘Last Christmas’ is what came out. Hope you guys enjoy!”

Ok, so maybe this one wasn’t just for us, but it’s a new version all the same, and we appreciate the honor of premiering it. Thanks, Matt!

Bear Flag Revolt – Last Christmas


UPDATE: We have one more entry into the exclusives category that we were unable to post earlier due to… well… Christmas stuff. But we can safely say this is one of the most intriguing versions to become a part of your next holiday mix. The Return of the Ice Cube Trays have taken it upon themselves to not record lyrics, instead sampling movie lines to create the vocals. Genius! It’s amazing because it adds a level of separation between songwriter and object of affection. Does that make it more sincere in its inability to directly communicate?

Return of the Ice Cube Trays – Last Christmas