A Christmas Gift For You

If you can tear yourself away from work (or, more likely, the office Christmas party) for a few minutes, we have an announcement to make.  Because you have all been such good and helpful readers this year, and as a little thank-you for helping us reach 1 million readers earlier this month, we have a Christmas gift for you.

Actually, it’s a handful of Christmas gifts: free music!  OK, we know what you’re saying, but … this is LEGAL free music provided to you by outlets that may or may not be more legitimate than us.  Usually you have to fork over an e-mail address in return, but it’s still free.  And there are some legitimately big artists here.  Don’t thank us, it’s just our way of saying we appreciate you.

“Discoverer,” a new song from R.E.M.

The Sharpest Crown EP from Joe Pug

“Getting Ready For Christmas Day,” a new song by Paul Simon

“Tree By The River,” a new song by Iron and Wine

Songs from 10 Albums You May Have Missed in 2010, courtesy of SPIN

“Ghost Woman Blues,” a new song by the Low Anthem

Vans Warped Tour 2011 Sneak Peek Sampler (iTunes download)

A ton of free holiday music from Amazon.com (Registration may be required)

“Down By The Water,” a new song from The Decemberists (via Pitchfork)

Free top tunes from the 2010 Austin City Limits festival, from SPIN

Think Indie Xmas Nog sampler (featuring Blondie, Neko Case, Lee “Scratch” Perry and more) (Free registration required)

Artists on the rise from iTunes

“30 Days Of Dead,” Grateful Dead songs for free download