South London songwriter Carmody is no stranger to us here at TMR, as we’ve been drawn back to her distinct vocals, original lyrics and blissful melodies time and time again. While festive music may not be everyone’s cup of tea, you can’t deny the holiday magic and atmospheric movement of Carmody’s very own December-time single ‘It’s Always Christmas’. Speaking of the new song, Carmody says: “There are so many beautiful Christmas songs that really capture the essence of it all, the sadness and the beauty in Christmas, and I wanted to attempt to do that - to hark back to classic, traditional songwriting, but sing about a world that today's listener could relate to.” Listening to ‘It’s Always Christmas’ is the auditory equivalent of hunkering down for an evening of festive films, with its snowflaked hope, bittersweet twists, and ultimate realisation that finding yourself at this time of year is the true challenge. This could very well be our favourite holiday song for its honesty, moving piano and, of course, Carmody’s divine voice. - Hannah Thacker