The In Betweens

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In 1973 the mighty Merle Haggard and the Strangers recorded the original version of 'If We Make It Through December', Xmas country at its best, although Haggard always said the song was not a pure Christmas song. Of course this classic is covered a lot too and featured here at CAGG. Check for instance this beyond beautiful version of Phoebe Bridgers from 2020.
This year we can add another gem to that list. The In Betweens (God's loneliest indie band) made a dark, dragging version that fits the theme of the song perfectly. It builds up slowly, guitars grow heavier and heavier and the vocals sound increasingly desperate. Finally, 'Happy Xmas (War is Over)' is also seamlessly integrated in this shoegaze kinda indierock track. The In Betweens took their time for this track, but hey, what's six and a half minutes in a life when you make it through December. 

The In Betweens Insta here, their X over there.

Comments

pvc drain grate said…
Merle Haggard's timeless "If We Make It Through December" continues to inspire, and The In Betweens have truly captured its somber beauty with their haunting rendition. Blending the track with "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" adds a layer of poignant hope, while the escalating guitars and raw vocals evoke a palpable sense of struggle and resilience. At six and a half minutes, this shoegaze-infused indie rock interpretation is a slow burn worth every second—proving that great songs can transcend genres and eras. Who else feels this one hit right in the feels?
7:10 PM
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