Every year it's the same. You walk into a record shop determined to buy the sort of disc that will light up your father/sister/son/granny's face on Christmas day... only to emerge clutching a handful of soulless record tokens. But this year, to save you from tears, our music critics have compiled their own selection of seasonal treats. From slam-punk for surly sprogs to gentle salsa for grown-ups, festive concerts and classical CDs, there's something for every ear...

No sleep 'til bedtime
Barbara Ellen checks out the chart sounds likely to appeal to your average teenager - so you don't have to

Let the old times roll
10cc again? Er, thanks, son. Trad dad David Sinclair chooses some Christmas treats for da mamas and da papas

Names worth dropping
Lisa Verrico, a woman so in tune with the zeitgeist she can name the hot outfits before they even form, stuffs Santa’s coolest sack

And now, for your listening pleasure...
There is much more to enjoy than simply Messiah. Hilary Finch lends an ear to the best festive music to be heard in the capital

Classical albums
Bach and Handel aren’t just for life, they’re for Christmas, too, says Geoff Brown

Blues albums
For a patient who’s now nearing his 100th birthday, the blues is remarkably healthy, says John Clarke

Jazz albums
A jazz record as festive present - but who exactly for? These days jazz buffs appear an endangered species, says John Bungey