Metal, punk and emo are the flavor for these Christmas originals and remakes. Utah's own The Used have "Alone This Holiday," and lead singer Bert McCracken fronts the Street Drum Corps on John Lennon's "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)." Amped does a number with "We Three Kings" and Roses Are Red do one over on George Michael with a punk version of Wham's "Last Christmas." The Black Halos find time for "Homeless for Christmas" and From First to Last shoot out "Christmassacre." Bedlight for Blue Eyes and My American Heart crash it up with "Christmas Song" and "First Noel," respectively. Irreverent and furious, the album is a skater's dream. — S.I.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "The Night Before Christmas: A Windham Hill Christmas" (Windham Hill)

Windham Hill — home of pianist Philip Aaberg, pianist George Winston and guitarist Will Ackerman — has made the holidays enjoyable with its "Windham Hill Christmas" series. This time around , multi-instrumentalist Paul McCandless' "Angels We Have Heard on High," Aaberg's "Wassail Song" and pianist Jim Brickman's "O Tannenbaum" are cozy tunes. Violist Tracy Silverman's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and harpist Barbara Higbie's "Silent Night" bring to mind warm fires and hot chocolate. Winston moves from piano to acoustic guitar for "Cherry Tree Carol." — S.I.

VARIOUS ARTISTS; "Welcome Home for The Holidays: An FM 100 Christmas, Volume V" (Bonneville International)

The latest in a series of collections culled from seasonal mini-concerts sponsored by the local radio station, this year's offering is an eclectic mix that showcases the talents of local musicians, with Michael Dowdle's spirited guitar solo on "What Child Is This," Kirkmount on some lively "Christmas Jigs." Kurt Bestor adds his usual touch of elegance with "Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella." Paul Cardall ("We Three Kings") and David Tolk ("Amazing Grace") are equally impressive. The Studio A Children's Choir raises angelic voices on "One Star/Angels We Have Heard On High." Nancy Hanson adds a lighthearted touch with her "Frosty the Snowman." Other performers include Cherie Call, Peter Breinholt, Angela Winston, Ryan Shupe & The Rubber Band, Jon Schmidt, Voice Male, Lokahi and Craig Miner. As always, proceeds benefit The Road Home homeless shelter. — C.W.

VEGGIE TALES; "The Incredible Singing Christmas Tree" (Big Idea)