We’ve held him back as long as we could, but the Christmas spirit’s fit ready to burst out of old Brian now and the first (of many) Christmas playlists is ready to go.  He’s been working on them since May, so don’t be surprised at how astoundingly wonderful they are.

If, by some miracle, you’ve not yet gotten into the saltdough, glitter, ribbon and wreaths yet, this week’s selection will boot you into the right frame of mind smartish.

Also, it has come to our attention that some of you are without Spotify access.  We’ve instigated a bit of an invitation amnesty on Twitter (@forfolkssake) so if you’re in need we’ll sort you out with an early Christmas pressie.  If you need one, or you have spares you’d like to share, get in touch!

Here’s this week’s playlist, for your delectation:

Brian’s Mixtape #18: Christmas is Coming

Johnny Cash – Blue Christmas
Ben Kweller – Rock if Ages
Au Revoir Simone -  Christmas Time is Here
The Pogues – Fairytale of New York
Hefner – The Little Baby Hefner’s Xmas Song For Holland
Eels – Christmas is Going to the Dogs
The Beach Boys – Santa’s Beard
Parenthetical Girls – Festive Friends (Forever)
Blitzen Trapper – Christmas is Coming Soon
Kate and Anna McGarrigle – Il est né/ Ca Bergers
The Beach Boys – Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town
Sufjan Stevens – Get Behind Me, Santa!

Also, for those of you still woefully out of the loop, here are Brian’s previous offerings (I’d listen to the Christmas one first, mind, seeing as it’s DECEMBER).

Brian’s Mixtape #1: Salad and Twilight

Brian’s Mixtape #2: Pick of the Scmercuries

Brian’s mixtape #3: imitation and flattery

Brian’s mixtape #4: Conkers and Blusters

Brian’s mixtape #5: heroes and villains

Brian’s mixtape #6: Birthdays and Remembrances

Brian’s mixtape #7: End of the Road

Brian’s Mixtape #8: From A to B

Brian’s Mixtape #9: Yellow Bird Project

Brian’s Mixtape #10: Nymphs and Harpies

Brian’s Mixtape #11: With a Little Help from Dolly

Brian’s Mixtape #12: Swning

Brian’s Mixtape #13: Openings and inroads

Brian’s Mixtape #14: Hatchings and Hotchpotches

Brian’s Mixtape #15: The Wind and the Rain

Brian’s Mixtape #16: Up the Rainbow

Spotify – Brian’s Mixtape #17: The Laurel Canyon