Album of the Day

Still going strong more than 50 years on, revered Southern California ensemble WAR gets in the holiday spirit with its first-ever Christmas song. Like many tracks from the multi-Platinum-selling band, “(Yes It’s) Christmas” began as an extended jam, which producer Jerry Goldstein sculpted into the final song. Frontman Lonnie Jordan’s lyrics manifest a laid-back, warm-weather Christmas, where kids from all types of neighborhoods dream of Santa dropping off goodies just for them and the joy of the season. Pairing seasonal staples like bells with instruments including a guiro and riding an irresistibly funky groove that radiates sunny vibes, new holiday favorite “(Yes It’s) Christmas” is instantly recognizable as a WAR tune.