Chandler Strutz of Portland band Just Lions recorded this tender version of the World War II-era Christmas standard “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” originally made famous by Bing Crosby. Strutz tells us he tracked this one quickly earlier this month, maybe after a drink or two. “Did it in one or two takes, then slapped a little reverb on it,” he says. “Just me and an acoustic… trying something different for a change.”
This version’s clarity finds both warmth and sadness in the idea of a soldier overseas for Christmas; the simplicity of the take is reminiscent of a handwritten letter home.
Strutz’s band Just Lions plays a free show on Monday, December 23 at Valentine’s with Fanno Creek and Black Is Bright. Might be your last chance to rock out before heading home for your own Christmas.