It's that time of the year again when we at Switched on Pop take a deep dive into the latest musical gems. Each December, artists bring forth a plethora of holiday-themed tunes, some becoming instant classics and others fading into obscurity. Let's explore four recent tracks and rate them on a scale of zero to five sleigh bells.

Discover the Best and Worst of This Season's Holiday Music

Kelly Clarkson's "You for Christmas"

Produced and co-written by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, this perennial Christmas contender has it all. The Motown production, with its chromaticism and an infinite supply of sleigh bells, combined with Kelly Clarkson's huge vocals, creates a truly captivating sound. The syncopated lead takes the song to new heights, leaving us stunned. It's a song that effortlessly merges the classic with the modern, making it a standout in the holiday music scene.There's a nostalgic charm to this track that transports us back to the era when classical pop merged with rock and roll and R&B. Kelly Clarkson's vocal chops shine through, proving her holiday bona fides. It's a song that will have you bopping in your seat and humming along long after the holidays are over.

Orville Peck's Holiday Song

Orville Peck's holiday song is a breath of fresh air. With its literal sleigh bells and the Nashville, big orchestrated sound reminiscent of Patsy Cline, it evokes a sense of nostalgia. The song's use of 6/8 time adds to its holiday-esque feel, taking us back to the caroling days of yore. It's a song that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression.Whether it's the duet with Willie Nelson or the overall atmosphere, Orville Peck's holiday song stands out among the rest. It's a unique take on the holiday season that we haven't heard before.

The Song by Dan Nigro and Ethan Gruska

This song takes a different approach to the holidays. It's about coming home for the holidays and confronting memories that we may have been trying to avoid. The collaboration between Dan Nigro and Ethan Gruska, who have worked with Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan, gives the song a pop world all-star feel.While the chorus has a touch of Lumineers, the overall sound is reminiscent of Taylor Swift's "Lover." It's a refreshing take on the holiday genre that offers a new perspective. Although it may not have the traditional holiday qualities, it's a song that will make you think and feel.

Dan and Shay's "Take Me Home for Christmas"

This duo plays into the history of "All I Want for Christmas Is You" with their unique take. The EDM style post-chorus pop drop introduced into a traditional country song is a bold move that pays off. The Telecaster guitar and twang add to the charm, making it a perfect holiday present.It's a song that doesn't try to do too much but instead focuses on delivering a delightful experience. It's a novelty that will bring a smile to your face and make the holidays even more special.