As the festive season approaches, the familiar sound of well-worn Christmas classics can begin to lose its sparkle. This year, music lovers across the UK have a fresh alternative. A new collection of curated playlists for 2025 offers a vibrant soundtrack for every stage of the Christmas celebration, from the first guests arriving to the contemplative morning after.
Setting the Vibe for Festive House Parties
For the energetic chaos of a house party, the early hours demand music that builds momentum. Instead of reaching for the same old hits, these playlists feature a dynamic mix of contemporary pop, dance, and rap. The selection is designed to keep the mood buoyant before the inevitable, cocktail-fuelled group sing-alongs begin. Key tracks include Jim Legxacy's 'Father', Cardi B's 'Principal' featuring Janet Jackson, and energetic offerings from PinkPantheress and Tyla.
Curated Sounds for Dinner Parties and Kitchens
The sonic requirements for a dinner party are more nuanced. The goal is to avoid generic background music in favour of tracks with character and humanity that complement conversation rather than dominate it. This selection spans hip-hop, alt-pop, indie, and R&B, featuring artists like Banks, Olivia Dean, and Fontaines DC. Similarly, cooking for a crowd requires a specific mood. The recommended playlist blends blissful funk, classic soul, and folk-rock from artists like Erykah Badu and Van Morrison to maintain a calm but focused atmosphere in the kitchen.
The Morning After: Soothing the Festive Spirit
When the party is over and the clean-up begins, a different kind of music is needed. For the morning after, the focus shifts to soothing soundscapes. This playlist is filled with the year's best dream-pop and acoustic songwriting to provide a gentle backdrop for recovery. Artists such as Loyle Carner, Nilüfer Yanya, and the evocative sounds of Burial help to make everything feel a little better. These ready-made playlists, originally featured in the Guardian's Feast supplement on Saturday 22 November, can be easily transferred to popular streaming services like Apple Music and Tidal, offering a seamless musical journey through the entire holiday season.
