If there's a ghost for Christmas past, present and future, it's time a ghost for Christmas songs was resurrected.  A spirit that could haunt every idiot who's bought a novelty record like Bob The Builder, Mr Blobby and a Westlife single and criminally aided and abetted them to become a Christmas number one.

But just when you were thinking you'll have to spend the season drowning yourself in mulled wine, The Darkness are willingly offering a lifeline with their Christmas single and it is a proper Christmas single with all the trimmings.  Just like the ones from Slade and Wizzard, which feels like centuries ago.  It's got sleigh-bells, a choir and riffs that scream of Queen.  The only turkey is the video - so, so, so disappointing - but up against the rest of the records contending for the coveted top spot, this one knees 'em right in the baubels.  

2003's Christmas number one?  Come on, it's being offered to you on a plate.  Decisions don't come any easier than this.
(3½/5)

Release Date: 15 December 2003

Christmas Time (Don't Let The Bells End)