Jeffery Straker Releases A Very Prairie Christmas, a Tender Holiday Album Full of Warmth and Wonder
Saskatchewan-born singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker shares A Very Prairie Christmas, a 12-song recording shaped by nearly a decade of his beloved annual holiday shows. Blending nostalgic classics, intimate arrangements, and Straker’s signature piano-driven storytelling, the album captures the way Christmas memories evolve while still holding their magic.
“When I was selecting these songs, I had the benefit of having performed my annual holiday show for nine years,” Straker explains. “Listeners enjoyed my originals, but it was clear that the classic Christmas tunes were important and needed to be included. Folks have so many memories attached to those songs. If there was a thought bubble over everyone’s head in the auditorium – with a little movie-of-memories playing while we performed – each song would be different for everyone.”
After years of fans asking at the merch table whether a Christmas album existed, Straker finally set out to record one, naming the project after his long-running shows. The entire album was recorded and produced in Saskatchewan with a cast of local musicians. Sessions took place in July and August, with summer heat outside and a Christmas tree set up inside his living room-turned-studio. “It was fascinating how the songs immediately transported us into full festive mode,” he says. “These songs were all I needed to virtually hang some holly and lights around my house.”
The album’s focus track, “Holly Jolly Christmas,” is a long-standing audience favourite from Straker’s annual show. Written by holiday hitmaker Johnny Marks and made famous by Burl Ives, the song shines with bright, nostalgic cheer.
“It’s like the flashing coloured lights on a Christmas tree,” Straker says. “I don’t think Christmas is complete without this song and its spirit-lifting powers.”
The recorded version reflects the full-band energy of his hometown holiday show, featuring a 10-piece ensemble – upright piano, drums, upright bass, mandolin, acoustic guitar, two violins, saxophone, trumpet, and two backing singers.
“It’s short, sweet, and pure Christmas magic,” Straker says. “The message is simple: it’s Christmastime, so be happy and celebrate it.”