Album Review: Mr. Santa Clause Under The Christmas Tree by Milo Finley Combo
If you’re on the hunt for a holiday album that feels like sipping hot cocoa by a crackling fire, Mr. Santa Clause Under The Christmas Tree by Milo Finley Combo might just be your ticket. Released in 1960 under the label Milo, this jazz-and-pop-infused gem from the US is as cozy and nostalgic as Christmas itself. It’s not perfect, but it doesn’t need to be—sometimes charm lies in imperfection.
The opening track, “Mr. Santa Claus,” sets the tone with its playful swing. You can almost picture a retro living room scene where everyone's wearing ugly sweaters and nodding along to the beat. The horn section pops out confidently, while the piano keeps things light and bouncy. What sticks with me most about this tune? Its carefree vibe—it’s impossible not to hum along after hearing it once. It reminds me of those old black-and-white TV specials that somehow made even fruitcake look appetizing.
Then there’s “Under The Christmas Tree,” which leans more into the pop side of things. This one has these dreamy, twinkling keys that sound like tinsel shimmering under soft lights. There’s something oddly comforting about how straightforward the lyrics are; no frills, no overthinking, just pure holiday cheer wrapped up in melody. I found myself humming it hours later while wrapping gifts (badly).
What makes this album stand out isn’t groundbreaking production or flashy solos—it’s the simplicity. In an era when Christmas music often tries too hard to dazzle, Milo Finley Combo delivers something refreshingly low-key. Sure, some parts feel a little dated, but maybe that’s part of its appeal. It’s like finding a dusty ornament at the back of the attic—you don’t expect much, but then it turns out to hold all sorts of memories.
In the end, Mr. Santa Clause Under The Christmas Tree feels less like an album and more like a warm handshake from someone who knows exactly what makes December special. Oddly enough, listening to it made me realize how rare it is to find music that’s genuinely joyful without being saccharine. So if you’re building your holiday playlist, give this one a spin—it won’t change your life, but it’ll definitely make your tree feel a little brighter. And hey, who couldn’t use a bit of that right now?
