Erling Grønhaug, also known as The Duke, has unleashed the Christmas Advent Calendar. It features 24 acts performing 24 Christmas tunes to keep you rocking through the festive season. 

Each day a new video clip featuring a Christmas themed song will be revealed via a special Facebook page. And much of the talent behind the project is from Newcastle. 

“December is really painful for a lot of people up until those last few days, it’s just stress,” The Duke said. 

“I liked the idea of having something that was fun to follow everyday.

“In Norway, my home country, a Christmas calendar is just a given, it’s something you have in your house.

“It’s not as common here … I always grew up with it and that’s why I like it, to know Christmas is happening.” 

This calendar, the second since its inception,  features performances by a band from Rosie’s School of Rock, Lennie Tranter and the Bagism Revelation, Paper Thin, Grace Turner, Amy Vee, Jack Dawson and the Truman Smith Band. 

There are also acts from across the nation participating this year, as well as Norway and the US. The calendar features independent artists performing tried and tested Christmas favourites such as: Carol of the Bells, Blue Christmas, Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer and Sleigh Bells. 

“There are a few odd ones, you may not have heard before,” The Duke said. 

There are also some tunes written especially for the calendar, all with a Christmas theme. 

For the past two years The Duke has made contact with musical artists asking them to participate in the project, and each time the response has been very positive.

It all happens digitally. The bands record their tune, and shoot the videos themselves.

“It wouldn’t have been possible 10 years ago,” The Duke said. 

The Duke said Christmas in Australia was very different to Norway.

“It’s much more formal for one thing … no things,” The Duke said. “I mean it’s 40 degrees here.”

Next year The Duke intends to use the calendar to raise awareness and possibly funds for charity. He will ask the performers involved to nominate their favourite causes. 

The calendar launched on Thursday with a song by Tamworth duo Smith and Jones performing their original tune. 

To see all the Christmas talent and to get a daily dose of rock in the days to December 25 visit: facebook.com/thexmasmusicalendar