Sanity Clause’s debut single “Ma Bells Don’t Jingle” is a festive track that refuses to follow the usual holiday song formula. Rather than celebrating the usual cheer, excess, and glitter of the Christmas season, this cheeky Glaswegian duo offers a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the less glamorous side of the holidays. Written during the challenging days of the Covid lockdowns, the song carries a playful yet thought-provoking message about the pressures of the festive season. The track is far from your typical Christmas anthem. In fact, it’s a sort of anti-commercialisation protest wrapped in catchy, upbeat haze pop. The song’s clever lyrics highlight the ridiculousness of the holiday rush, poking fun at the consumer-driven frenzy with lines like, ‘Xmas is not for everyone’ and ‘Grandma Jones is freezing in her high-rise flat’. These observations hit close to home, shedding light on the discomfort and isolation that some people may experience during a time when happiness is expected to be all around. The playful dismissal of typical Christmas trappings – ‘I don’t like tinsel, my bells don’t jingle’ – gives the track a rebellious feel, as if the duo is saying, ‘Let’s step back and look at what truly matters’.
But don’t be fooled by the tongue-in-cheek approach – the track isn’t all about being a Grinch. At its core, “Ma Bells Don’t Jingle” is a gentle reminder of the importance of keeping the Christmas spirit authentic. Despite the sharp commentary on consumerism and the festive hustle, there’s a sense of empathy in the song’s tone. Lines like, ‘Please don’t let it snow’ suggest that the duo wants to bring back the true sense of peace and goodwill that Christmas should embody. It’s a call for simplicity, for reflection, and for remembering that for many, the season can be a reminder of hardship rather than joy. The song itself is a catchy mix of programmed beats, electric guitar, and smooth, engaging vocals from James Stewart. The production, handled by Stewart and bandmate Derek Yeaman, is sharp and clear, with a sound that’s polished but never overproduced. The melody complements the song’s message, with a relaxed but driving rhythm that makes it easy to get into, even as it conveys deeper social commentary. The repeated refrain of ‘I don’t like tinsel, my bells don’t jingle’ gives the track an infectious, sing-along quality, perfect for those who enjoy a holiday tune with a bit of an edge.
In a season often flooded with commercialized holiday cheer, “Ma Bells Don’t Jingle” stands out as a refreshing alternative. It doesn’t shy away from the harder truths, but it never loses its humor or its heart. In fact, the duo’s decision to donate proceeds from the song to charity shows that they’re putting their message into action, giving back to those who need it most during a time of financial strain for many. Sanity Clause’s debut single is the perfect holiday track for those who feel a little overwhelmed by the festive excess or who just want a song that tells it like it is. It’s clever, it’s catchy, and it offers a heartfelt reminder to focus on what really matters this time of year. If you’re tired of the same old Christmas songs, this one offers a breath of fresh air with a lot of heart.
Get in Touch with Sanity Clause on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok
English