Bristol-based pop-rock band Chandra has gifted listeners a joyous and heartfelt seasonal anthem with their new single, “Christmas Hugs.” Known for their cheeky, melody-driven sound, the band brings their signature pop-rock style to the holidays, wrapping it in a nostalgic, festive glow. Following the success of their 6-track Lifted EP earlier this year, “Christmas Hugs” is a bright, feel-good track that sparkles with warmth and unashamed holiday spirit.
While the song bursts with uplifting vibes and catchy hooks, it also carries a deeper, poignant message. Frontman Chandra reflects on the inspiration behind the track:
“My favourite thing about Christmas is the swell of joy and goodwill that spreads like a virus as soon as Halloween ends and runs all the way through to New Year’s Eve. People give themselves permission to be more friendly, more charitable, and more forgiving than at any other time of year. We wanted to write a song that celebrates this wonderful transformation of the human spirit but also acts like a great big Christmas hug in itself.”
True to their storytelling roots, Chandra combines the celebration of festive cheer with a thoughtful reflection on the power of human kindness. The track, co-produced by Chandra and longtime collaborator Aaron Shawt, delivers a seamless blend of shimmering guitar pop and lush holiday nostalgia.
Chandra—comprised of Keith Jones (drums), Chris Wong (bass), and Chandra Nair (frontman, guitar)—have quickly established themselves as one of the UK’s most exciting pop-rock outfits. Their ability to craft infectious melodies while tackling themes of self-belief, mental health, and the human condition sets them apart. With plans for a second EP slated for Summer 2025, the band shows no signs of slowing down.
