HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Choosing the right music for a Christmas party or gathering is essential because it has the power to shape the entire mood of the event. Holiday music creates a nostalgic and festive atmosphere, enhancing the joy and warmth of the season. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The perfect soundtrack can evoke cherished memories, inspire feelings of happiness and togetherness, and even encourage dancing and celebration. Whether your gathering is casual or formal, the right album can add an extra layer of magic to your event, ensuring guests feel the holiday spirit in every moment. KHON2.com was able to catch up with Jim Williams, the buyer and manager of Hungry Ear Records. Williams share with us their top 10 Christmas albums. “We just want people to come in and enjoy the music,” said Williams. While you can buy vinyl albums many places, Hungry Ear Records has a special niche. “There are other places that sell vinyl, but just being music-focused, we’re the only one in town,” Williams added. He also indicated that they are seeing a lot of customers come in who are under the age of 30 and who are wanting the vinyl record experience. “Our theory is a lot of younger kids grew up with MP3s and earbuds with nothing physical in their hands,” he explained. “I think the enjoyment of looking at liner notes and listening to a full album, the way the artist meant, from front to back, is something that people really like.” Now, let's take a closer look at ten incredible Christmas albums that can set the perfect tone for your holiday gatherings: 1. Michael Bublé -- Christmas Michael Bublé’s Christmas album is a modern classic that brings a fresh yet nostalgic touch to holiday favorites. With his smooth vocals and a mix of jazzy arrangements, Bublé creates an atmosphere of elegance and charm. The album includes beloved tracks like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and a sultry version of “Santa Baby,” perfect for warming up a cozy holiday party. 2. Mariah Carey -- Merry Christmas No Christmas playlist is complete without Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas. Released in 1994, this album is a staple in every holiday gathering. The iconic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” will have everyone singing along, while tracks like “O Holy Night” showcase Carey’s incredible vocal range. This album is ideal for adding both excitement and reverence to your holiday celebration. 3. The Carpenters -- Christmas Once More For a more gentle and heartfelt holiday experience, The Carpenters' Christmas Once More is a perfect choice. The soft, soothing vocals of Karen Carpenter and the smooth orchestration create a relaxing, cozy vibe. Songs like “Merry Christmas Darling” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” bring a sense of warmth, making it a great album for quiet, intimate gatherings. 4. Kimie Miner -- Christmas In Hawai’i For a tropical twist on holiday tunes, Christmas In Hawai’i by Kimie Miner is an unforgettable choice. This album blends traditional Christmas music with Hawaiian flair, offering smooth island rhythms and gentle vocals that evoke a peaceful, laid-back holiday vibe. Tracks like “Jingle Bells” and “Mele Kalikimaka” are perfect for beach-themed or relaxed gatherings. 5. Louis Armstrong -- Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule Louis Armstrong’s Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule brings a timeless touch of jazz to your Christmas party. Armstrong’s signature gravelly voice and masterful trumpet playing bring an upbeat, swinging energy to tracks like “Christmas Night in Harlem” and “Cool Yule.” This album is ideal for adding a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere to a holiday gathering. 6. Go Jimmy Go - Holiday Hell Yeah For something more offbeat and energetic, Go Jimmy Go’s Holiday Hell Yeah will bring a playful, high-energy vibe to your celebration. This album blends rock, ska, and holiday spirit, offering a unique take on Christmas music. Tracks like “Merry Christmas, Baby” and “Holiday Hell Yeah” are perfect for lively parties that want to add a dose of fun and unpredictability. 7. Vince Guaraldi Trio -- A Charlie Brown Christmas Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas is an instrumental masterpiece that has become synonymous with the holiday season. The jazzy piano melodies of tracks like “Christmas Time Is Here” and “O Tannenbaum” create a serene and whimsical atmosphere. This album is perfect for adding a peaceful, nostalgic touch to a Christmas gathering, especially for families or children. 8. Sabrina Carpenter -- Fruitcake Sabrina Carpenter’s Fruitcake brings a modern pop vibe to the Christmas music scene. The album blends fun, quirky tracks with upbeat rhythms and holiday cheer. Songs like “Christmas the Whole Year Round” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” bring a youthful energy that’s perfect for contemporary parties or a gathering of friends looking for something fresh and fun. 9. Phil Spector -- A Christmas Gift for You Phil Spector’s A Christmas Gift for You is a holiday classic that brings the magic of 1960s pop to the season. Featuring artists like The Ronettes and Darlene Love, this album is packed with catchy, upbeat tracks that have become timeless staples. With songs like “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” and “Sleigh Ride,” this album is ideal for adding a vibrant, upbeat energy to your holiday celebration. 10. Jackson 5 -- Jackson 5 Christmas Album The Jackson 5’s Christmas Album is full of youthful exuberance and infectious energy. The Motown sound comes alive with tracks like “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” making it a great choice for getting everyone in the party spirit. This album adds fun and nostalgia, perfect for families and those looking to groove to some festive tunes. These albums each bring something special to the table, ensuring your holiday gathering will have the perfect soundtrack to set the right mood and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for jazz, pop, tropical rhythms, or traditional classics, there’s an album for every vibe and every guest. Click here to learn more about Hungry Ear Records. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 So, whether you're looking for the perfect music for your holiday party or the perfect album for that hard-to-please 20-something in your life, Hungry Ear Records in Kakaʻako has got you covered.