Returning wiht a unique, emotive and lush new single – Pauline Andrès shares "Sweet December," a track that confidently steps beyond seasonal clichés. Co-produced by Andrès and the accomplished Tom Bailey, and mixed by industry veteran Ross Petersen (known for his work with Bruce Springsteen), the song is a masterclass in organic, high-quality production, featuring a rich sonic palette built exclusively on real instruments, including live drums, piano, and a resonant organ.
The music itself is a vibrant and soulful fusion, effortlessly blending the warmth of Americana and country-rock with an Indie Pop cheerfulness. While the title suggests a gentle winter tune, the lyrics—inspired in part by a "grumpy boyfriend"—carry a deeper, more spirited message. Andrès frames the track as an anthem for choosing joy and celebrating the simple act of togetherness during the hardest part of the year. It's a warm, melodic, and refreshingly direct perspective on the season's meaning, capturing the grit and tenderness that are hallmarks of Andrès’ songwriting, informed by her eclectic upbringing near the German border and her journey through the music scenes of London, Berlin, and Nashville.
"Sweet December" is far from a typical holiday jingle; it’s an expertly crafted, heartfelt piece of alt-country and indie fusion that manages to be both celebratory and genuinely moving.
“Sweet December is about remembering what the season and the solstice are all about: celebrating the return of the light and keeping each other cheerful and warm during the hardest time of the year. The reason for the season isn't anyone's son. But the Winter Solstice sure requires some celebrations to keep us all going. It's not that deep.”