Ben Folds and the Making of 'Sleigher'
Ben Folds has always had a knack for blending wit with emotion, and his new Christmas album *Sleigher* is no exception. Through a series of live performances and candid discussions on the World Cafe, Folds sheds light on his creative process, questioning the clichés often associated with holiday music. In an age where sleigh bells are the norm, Folds opts for more nostalgic sounds like the harmonica to evoke a sense of Americana.
*Sleigher* mixes original tracks like *Me and Maurice* and *We Could Have This* with Folds' take on classics like *The Christmas Song*. These songs aren't your typical feel-good holiday tunes; they're layered with personal reflections and a touch of melancholy. According to Folds, there's an inherent sadness in Christmas, a contrast between the commercial cheer we see around us and the complex emotions many feel during this season.
The Sounds of Summer in a Christmas Album
An interesting twist to the album is its recording setting. Parts of *Sleigher* were recorded during the sweltering summer heat, with cicadas providing a natural backdrop to tracks like *Christmas AI*. It's an unconventional choice that adds depth to the album, subtly challenging the traditional sounds of Christmas music. This summer recording brings a refreshing perspective to the holiday music scene, offering listeners something they didn't know they needed.
Ben Folds' collaboration with World Cafe producer and editor Kimberly Junod, engineer Chris Williams, and web story contributor Miguel Perez adds to the album's unique vibe. Host Raina Douris also plays a significant role, facilitating insightful discussions with Folds about how annual rituals frame our lives, shaping the narrative of both the album and our personal experiences.
*Sleigher* might start a conversation not only about holiday music but about the broader implications of how we perceive traditions. In blending the threads of past and present, Folds offers a musical journey that's as much about looking back as it is about finding meaning in the here and now.