This is the time of year where I like to just cozy up. The colder it is outside, the warmer it needs to be inside. Basically, I try and push hygge to the extreme. The Danish word hygge is one of those beautiful words that doesn't directly translate into English, but it more or less means comfort, warmth or togetherness. Which translates to loads of fires in the fireplace, blankets, candles, twinkle lights, and visits from friends.

And when it comes to holiday music, sure I enjoy a good "Jingle Bell Rock" or "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," but I'm all about the coziness with the sounds as well. That means Sufjan Stevens' "Sister Winter," Fleet Foxes' "White Winter Hymnal," and Joni Mitchell's "River" are on heavy rotation. This year I've got a new favorite to add to my holiday coziness playlist, The Staves and yMusic "Trouble on My Mind".

The complex and beautiful harmonies of The Staves and the warm and shimmering orchestration from yMusic blend together and wrap you in a musical hug. The Brooklyn based chamber ensemble and the trio from the UK (who have more or less become Minnesotans in the past year) met at last summer's Eaux Claires festival and had such a lovely time collaborating that they made an entire album together. It's the sort of music that can thaw the heart of the coldest Grinch. When the strings build up, and when the solitary Stave is joined in harmony by her two sisters a wave a warmth washes over you. It's not a holiday song, but it sure fits the feeling of the season.

Resources

The Staves - Official Site

Related

• The Staves perform in the Forum at The Current (2016)
• The Staves perform in The Current studio (2015)