After finally popping up on our radar in 2023—almost a decade removed from the band’s formation—and winding up earning inclusion on our favorite Milwaukee music list that same year, we’ve made sure to do a better job of keeping tabs on HOSTS. In the two-plus years since releasing its acclaimed album, Wade Low, the local indie-Americana outfit has played out regularly, amassed some impressive opening credits, and appeared on stage at Summerfest and at a number of other area festivals.
Evidently, the band also found time during that span to travel to the mountains of Colorado to record some new material. While we eagerly await another HOSTS album (hopefully next year?!), the band decided to give listeners an early holiday present in the form of a new seasonal single. According to HOSTS, “Blue Collar Christmas” was recorded live in just one take during those sessions on “The Mountain Top.”
Between the raw, country-tinged instrumentation and Miles Patzer’s distinct warble as he soulfully sings about experiencing a simple “blue collar” Christmas with friends instead of a traditional holiday with family and frills, this one-off song is a gift we’re happy to accept this December. On the subject of giving, all proceeds HOSTS receives from Bandcamp purchases of “Blue Collar Christmas” will help cover one of their friend’s medical expenses. So help HOSTS help someone in need while also helping yourself to the band’s first new track in two and a half years.