Quirky hit-makers Fun. have entered the pantheon of pop artists recording holiday songs with a version of “Sleigh Ride,” marking the Christmas standard with singer Nate Ruess’ instantly recognizable vocals and a jaunty hip-hop beat.

It’s a savvy choice by the emerging New York band, as “Sleigh Ride” was recognized by ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) as the most-played Christmas song on U.S. radio stations for the years 2010 and 2011.

Fun’s version of the song was recorded as part of a new compilation, Holidays Rule. The album also features the Shins covering Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime,” while McCartney himself takes on “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire).”  Andrew Bird delivers a version of New Year’s Eve standard “Aud Lang Syne.”

Fun will have plenty of opportunities to play the song live, as the band is scheduled for a slew of shows in the month of December, including the GRAMMY nominations concert on December 5 and a headlining appearance at KROQ’s Almost Acoustic Christmas show on December 9.

–Scott T. Sterling, CBS Radio