"Joseph, Better You Than Me," The Killers (Island Def Jam)

The Killers maintain their Christmas single streak with their third entry in a row for 2008, this time bringing along Elton John and Neil Tennant from Pet Shop Boys for the ride. Starting with just voice and what is almost certainly Elton's piano playing, this remarkably insightful song builds to a big rock ballad climax with strings and horns. The guests almost hijack the band's big moment, but what the heck, it works. Proceeds benefit the Global Fund for AIDS.