Lots of Texans aren’t familiar with NRBQ simply because they never visit here. When I was in New York, 12 years ago now, they were easily my favorite band to see live. Their concerts were a droll mix of rock, pop, jazz, and wackiness that had no equal. The past few years for Q fans have been rough, as they’ve gone on hiatus save for a few special occasions.
Last week I discovered they reissued their Christmas Wish EP as a deluxe edition, expanded to 19 tracks. The title track is one of best Yuletide tunes you’ve never heard, a slice of pop whimsy with a toy piano and simple yet direct sentiments. Some of the songs are live and rather short so there is impromptu silliness on “Christmas Time Is Here” and “Jingle Bells.” As a whole this is one disc perfect for those tired of the same old Christmas songs performed in the same old way. It’s a bit of Christmas cheer for the rest of us. Happy holidays, y’all.
This article appears in December 21 • 2007.