HO HO WHO: The Killers, the Las Vegas electronic rock band behind mid-aughts hits like “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me.” Since 2006, the group has also put out an annual Christmas single with proceeds benefiting the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, including a new candidate for the world’s most genuinely sad holiday song, 2013’s “Christmas in L.A.”

BIZARRE CHRISTMAS INCIDENT: “Dirt Sledding” is the third song in a trilogy of tracks about a Santa who holds a crazy grudge. In 2009’s “Don’t Shoot Me, Santa,” Mr. Claus (played by former manager Ryan Pardey) has a gun and in 2012’s “I Feel It In My Bones,” he insists on keeping the band on his naughty list. This year, to the sound of rockabilly guitar, the group reconciles with Santa and sings out its Christmas list. Among the things on it: the Porsche Jake Ryan drove in Sixteen Candles, a shiny new Rolex, and, of course, pretty ladies.

WE’RE GONNA NEED A BIGGER SLEIGH: Adding to the Christmas cheer is actor Richard Dreyfuss, who speaks a verse midway though the song about remaining joyful and present during the holidays. This finally answers the question of what would happen if Mr. Holland stayed in Portland long enough to become a senior rock ‘n’ roller.

CHEER FACTOR: 8/10. With its jangling guitars and lyrics that discourage disagreement, this song is best played when you anticipate a family fight brewing; it will likely alleviate tension. After all, who can resist the Dreyf-ster?