Sufjan Stevens

Few things sound better together than Christmas and Sufjan Stevens.

“Silver & Gold,” Stevens’ five-CD set, is anything and everything Christmas related, complete with Stevens’ angry, conflicted emotions toward the holiday. While a handful of songs will appeal to Christmas music lovers at large, it will take a true Sufjan fan to appreciate the varied collection as a whole.

The collection highlights Stevens’ diverse style, featuring both original and traditional songs that not only resemble his quirkier “Age of Adz” style but also to folksy “Illinoise.” Each CD has its own feel and could easily stand on its own.

However, despite the hits, there are also some misses. The sheer number of songs feels overwhelming and unnecessary.

Most won’t listen to these albums too intently, which is okay. “Silver & Gold” is perfect for playing in the background while you and your roommates sit around and drink peppermint schnapps hot chocolate out of mason jars.

By Amanda Arnold