Album Review: Santa’s Party / Het Masker by Nick & Simon
If you’re into feel-good pop with a touch of Schlager magic and heartfelt ballads, Nick & Simon’s 2009 release Santa’s Party / Het Masker might just be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed. Released under Artist & Company in the Netherlands, this album is a quirky mix of holiday cheer and emotional depth, wrapped up in a polished package thanks to the design by Chantal Creemers and mastering by Dancewave Productions. The photography by William Rutten gives it that extra festive vibe—perfect for cozy winter nights.
The standout tracks here are the title songs, Santa’s Party and Het Masker. Let’s start with Santa’s Party. This track is exactly what it sounds like—a fun, upbeat anthem that makes you wanna grab some eggnog and dance around your living room. It’s not groundbreaking, but there’s something infectious about its energy. You can almost picture Nick and Simon rocking out on stage while Santa himself shakes a tambourine in the background (okay, maybe not, but hey, it’s fun to imagine). What sticks with me is how unapologetically festive it feels. No overthinking here; just pure, silly joy.
Then there’s Het Masker, which flips the mood entirely. This one leans more into their ballad style, and wow, does it hit differently. There’s an emotional weight to the lyrics that sneaks up on you. It’s one of those songs where you find yourself staring out the window, thinking about life choices or missed opportunities. The melody builds beautifully, and Simon’s vocals have this raw honesty that pulls at your heartstrings. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting such a shift from party vibes to introspective storytelling, but they pull it off.
Other tracks like 2000 Miles and Christmas Was A Friend Of Mine round out the album nicely, offering a balance between nostalgia and fresh takes on classic themes. But let’s be real—it’s Santa’s Party and Het Masker that’ll stick with you long after the first listen.
Looking back, this album isn’t perfect. Some parts feel a little too safe, and yeah, it’s definitely tailored for Dutch audiences during the holiday season. But sometimes, that’s all you need. It’s charming in its simplicity, and it reminds us that music doesn’t always have to reinvent the wheel to make an impact. Plus, who else has ever thought to pair Christmas cheer with existential musings? Only Nick & Simon could pull that off without it feeling weird.
So if you’re hunting for something festive yet meaningful, give Santa’s Party / Het Masker a spin. Just don’t blame me if you end up humming “Ho ho ho” well into spring.
