Not that I’d implemented an explicit embargo of holiday music pre-Thanksgiving, but I really couldn’t wait to share this one. Even better, the first Christmas song of the season on Popservations isn’t one you’ve heard done before, but rather an original tune arriving from Sweden.

Serenades, the Stockholm-based duo of Shout Out Louds frontman Adam Olenius and Markus Krunegård, released their debut EP, Come Home, yesterday in the states. I didn’t expect it, but was so ecstatic when I discovered the title track, “Come Home,” is a heartfelt plea for a loved one’s return in time for Christmas.

The song’s chorus, which goes, “I don’t want to know what it’s like to spend the holidays on my own / I don’t want to hear another Christmas song about love when I’m on my own / Come snow / Come home,” is sprinkled with spectacular “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” chimes. Serenades’ “Come Home” is the total package: A lovely sentiment wrapped in a beautifully layered production.

“Come Home” is fantastic first addition to my holiday music 2011 playlist. Serenades prove once more that Swedes do pop music best, whatever the season. Hear here:

Listen to more from Serenades via their website, where you snag a free download of the sunwashed “Oceans,” which appears on the Come Home EP. Serenades self-titled debut is due early next year via Cherrytree Records (home to La Roux, Robyn, Ellie Goulding, Feist, and other Popservations faves).

Purchase Serenades – “Come Home” via iTunes, Amazon MP3.