Sufjan Stevens releases two tracks about Tonya Harding

Without a hint of irony, malice, or contempt Sufjan has taken it upon himself to pen a biographical snapshot of Tonya Harding.  In the most direct way possible; this is the type of song writing that Sufjan is known for.  He does his research, he’s meticulous, and above all else he’s earnest in his endeavor.  Both versions of the track are great (although my personal favorite is Tonya (In Eb Major) which is listed first below.

Before you skip down and listen I encourage you to read the post Sufjan wrote about the song.  It can be found here http://music.sufjan.com/album/tonya-harding.

Sufjan Stevens – Even the Earth Will Perish and the Universe Give Way

It’s not the most conventional of Christmas tracks, but it’s a perfect slice of Sufjan’s trademark layered arrangement.  I love this song.

Sufjan Stevens – My Personal Winter Soundtrack

It should come as no surprise to you that Sufjan Stevens is my personal soundtrack to the colder months.  I can’t imagine a better backdrop to set the tree, sit by the fire, or read a good book under a blanket.  That being said – the 10 disc collection of Winter and Christmas themed music put together by Sufjan and his pals does have a few tracks that are harder to bear upon repeat listening.

And, if your audience isn’t really versed in Sufjan’s compositional tendencies, simply blasting through the entire discography might garner more than a few requests to push the skip track button.

To this end I’ve put together what I consider the best and most accessible distillation of both Songs for Christmas and Silver & Gold.

Enjoy it to your heart’s content.  Be that with friends, foe, or in some cases a healthy does of heartache.  My Sufjan Winter Spotify Playlist