The five royal Princes of The Hives Nation have teamed up with the Queen of Queens from Queens, Cyndi Lauper, to record the best holiday song this side of White Christmas (ok… maybe Silver and Gold as well).

The Hives and Cyndi Lauper “In A Christmas Duel” will be released via The Orchard on December 1st, 2008 in the UK and one day later on December 2nd in the US. As an early present to fans who have found themselves being particularly awesome this past year, the single will be exclusively available for free download via the band’s website throughout Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, November 28th through Sunday, November 30, 2008.

While some would expect one of those warm-your-toes-by-the-fire-while-snuggling-up-to-your-loved-one-between-sips-of-hot-cocoa-and-smooches-under-the-mistletoe type of songs, The Hives and Cyndi Lauper offer more of a unique take for this holiday season. Let’s just say that the pair get a little scrappy. It also features a piano. Yay.

The Hives explained, “It may sound weird and come as a surprise to some, but we had to. It came to us. It landed in our lap and was way too good to shake or toss. We knew we had to record it. A sign if you will.” Cyndi Lauper offered “this goes to show even rat sideswipers can have a good Xmas too.”

So there you have it. The Hives and Cyndi Lauper bring you “A Christmas Duel”, wrapped in a box with a huge black and white bow atop.

Also, be sure to check out The Hives performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, November 20th.

The Hives Official Website
The Hives on amazon.com
amazon.co.uk

Cyndi Lauper Official Website
Cyndi Lauper on amazon.com
amazon.co.uk