Tin Armor is a folk pop band from Ohio. This quartet creates lovely piano infused rock that brings to mind great melodic rock artists such as Ben Folds, Jeff Buckley and The Band.

Life Of Abundance is the band's full length debut record. It's currently being offered at a pay-what-you-want/free download over at their BandCamp page and comes with 12 awesome tracks that showcases the groups penchant for gorgeous vocal melodies and sweeping instrument work.

Each track is a privy to a sincere emotion; giving you a chance to feel what the singer is going through and the thoughts running through his head.

Listening to them for the first time, you'll be amazed at the quality of the songs. It's not just the recording, but also the composition and arrangements as well. They also have a knack for incorporating several genres and make it come out as a gem.

From the piano pop found in I Am Resolved to the gospel lyrics and sound in title track, Life of Abundance, down to the upbeat indie pop rock of Wayward Kites; you get a little something to satisfy your fancy. It's not the type of album that you'll fall in love with off the bat but it does make you realize it warrants more than just a first listen.

It's this capacity to mystify and intrigue listeners that makes this record worth having on your player. It's the album you leave playing on your iPod without much thought, not because it's your absolute favorite but because it's just good to listen to. You can go ahead and grab the free download or help out the band by ordering the vinyl version. Either way, it'll be effort, time or money well spent.

Related Links:
Tin Armor on BandCamp
Tin Armor Official Website
Tin Armor on Facebook
Tin Armor on NutHouse Punks

Hailing from South Dakota, classically trained singer, pianist, violinist and violist, Rachel Ries astonishes with her brand of music. And although this album is a couple of years old, it's still worth listening to.

Without a Bird, Rachel's second album, is composed of a folk jazzy sound with beautiful lyrics. It first came out back in 2007 under Rachel's own So Dak Records. Her first album, For You Only, was initially released back in 2005 and was completely recorded in a vintage analog system. This second album was also done in analog, thus exuding a beautiful vintage feel. It's the type of songs you'll want to play at home on a laid back evening, relaxing and just taking in the moment.

If you love your vintage 30s and 40s jazz pop, then it takes just one listen to fall in love with Rachel Ries. Her capacity to add a modern touch to these vintage style songs is amazing and that's not even counting her gorgeous vocals.

Mixing her beautiful piano sounds, jazz/blues style vocals, eloquent lyrics and lovely melodies; the album is a delight to listen to. Some of my favorite tracks include Chicago with its Regina Spektor-vibe; Learning Too Slow and its mid-tempo, slightly country sound; as well as When Will You Be Mine which is one of the best tracks reminiscent of 40s and 50s sultry singing sirens.

Overall, this album is definitely a great find. One of the best records I've listened to in quite a while. Currently, Rachel is slowly but surely compiling and preparing songs for a possible album. It's certainly one to watch out for. In the meantime, grab this release. It's available as a free download under Rockproper.com.

Related Links:
Rachel Ries Official Website
Rachel Ries on Myspace
Rachel Ries on Facebook
Rachel Ries on Rockproper
Rachel Ries on Tinderbox Music

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 United States License.

For moments when all you need is a sweet voiced singer with his guitar serenading your quiet afternoon; You Me and Apollo should make for a really good company.

The guy behind this sonic ensemble is Brent Cowles. A pastor's son from Fort Collins, Cowles started writing and creating songs at the age of 14. Thanks to an early start, he developed a beautiful sound that resonates with both quiet and upbeat tempos, mesmerizing vocal work and skillful guitars.

Simplicity and intrigue are both present in his work, something that makes you want to tune out the world and simply tune in to his songs.

There are times when all you need is to listen to the first 20-30 seconds of a song to realize that you have a worthwhile record in front you. Most people who discover You Me and Apollo for the first time often wonder how come they've never heard of him before. His music is one of those things that enchant you upon first encounter. Cowles' sweet and expressive growls and coos are just one part of the equation but it plays a big part on what draws you to him.

From the onset, the appropriately titled Opener, greets you with Cowles soothing vocals. Between the semi-falsettos and soft guitar strumming, he welcomes listeners to Cards with Cheats, convincing them to stay around and listen a bit more. Continuing on with A Pearl, the song is an upbeat country-style indie pop. In certain instances, the artists' voice reminds me of Damien Rice, only more upbeat and less melodramatic. Again, his voice takes center stage but his lyrical capabilities also shine through beautifully.

Although the entire album is really worth a listen, some of my personal favorites include Oh Brother and the Johnny Cash sounding, The Devil Inside. Both songs are acoustic tracks that highlights Cowles sincerity and capacity to communicate his thoughts through his words.

Cards with Cheats is a winner for me. It's an album worth having for anyone who loves acoustic folk with a very distinct rock touch. When listening to Cards with Cheats you'll realize that there are still plenty of wonderful recording gems lurking around and just waiting to be found.

The download is available over at BandCamp for free but you can also choose to buy it and help out the singer by popping over $8 through his label River Jones Music.

Related Links:
You Me And Apollo on BandCamp
You Me And Apollo on Myspace
You Me And Apollo on Facebook
You Me And Apollo on River Jones Music

Blues has always had a special place in my heart so when I found this really cool record from Freeky Cleen, it definitely made me smile. Acoustic Blues Jams is a laid back and simple guitar driven blues jam from a one man band.

The project began back in 2004 when Ilya Polishchuk and Alex Okhrimenko decided to create their own recording studio, complete with instruments and systems that they created themselves. This was a big challenge but they managed to succeed. After taking the plunge, Ilya recorded a couple of original tracks which would eventually lead to Freeky Cleen's debut record, Infertility, back in 2005.

To date, this is the sixth release from the artist. Acoustic Blues Jams is exactly like its title. It's a hodge podge of beautiful blues jam sessions accompanied with Ilya's country style vocals and clean acoustic guitar playing. The album contains 15 tracks including 3 bonus singles.

Starting with the catchy Married Man Blues, the song laments temptations besetting well...a married man. Featuring great guitar skills and a very laid style, the song is instantly likable even after just one listen. The vocals and backing voice lends itself to the song and definitely add that touch of sincerity to the lyrics. Other tracks like Feelin' Low Down, echo a more rhythm and blues vibe reminiscent of various blues artists who pretty much spearheaded the sound. Elements of hard rock, country, bluegrass and even boogie woogie dominate Freeky Cleen's sound; providing audiences a chance to enjoy this long-forgotten sound especially in today's pop-driven music world.

Overall, the record is a great one to have for those who know how to appreciate acoustic blues. It's a beautiful and relaxing compilation that makes you want to find yourself a bayou somewhere with guitar on hand and singing the afternoon's away. You'll find the record in Jamendo as well as on the band's official website.

Related Links:
Freeky Cleen Official Website
Freeky Cleen on Last FM
Freeky Cleen on Jamendo

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Released about two years ago, Welcome to Modifythevan is a great compilation that folk pop lovers will enjoy. Judging from the great roster this creative commons netlabel supports, you're bound to enjoy something from this record.

The label is owned by Robin Grey, who has been featured in our Frostclick blog for his other effort, I Love Leonard Cohen. 

Composed of several artists and their music; this special album takes 10 tracks from Ben Oliver, Blue Swerver, Johnny Berliner, Madelaine Hart and Richard Godwin, in addition to Grey. The album creates a beautiful mix of folk pop, melodic music you'll love to have running on your player.

Welcome to Modifythevan is the first compilation from the netlabel. Although it's a mini label, the record definitely has a great roster of talent to showcase. Opening with You Aint Grievin', the song features Madeleine Harts' gorgeous raspy vocals. Hart has been influenced by artists like Nina Simone, Cat Power and Martha Wainwright. Her vocals bring in a beautiful touch of elegance to the song, making it a relaxing piece accompanied by the guitars.

Meanwhile, characteristic of his wonderful acoustic folk rock, Robin Grey, impresses with Shakes and Shudders. If you ever need a soundtrack to your relaxing rainy days, then this is one track to consider. It's a sweet and emotional single that's perfect for a reflective mood. At The Movies by Blue Swerver is an emo/pop track with a slight tinge of jazz. Johnny Berliner and Richard Godwin also make an appearance in the record.

Personally, I enjoyed this record. Being a fan of folk music, it was lovely to listen to such a pleasant compilation. The gorgeous guitars, mood, lyrics and instrument work are everywhere. Definitely something to love if you want to rest and relax.

Related Links
Modifythevan on Jamendo
Modifythevan Official Website

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Abdoulaye Alhassane is often called a master of the music of the Saharan cultures and languages; from Songhai, Sonrai, to Tamaschek, Peil, Toureg, and Zerma. More than anything else, however, he is an incredibly talented composer, arranger, producer and has been a part of a highly successful Niger based band, Mamar Kassey, which toured the world gathering countless of rave reviews. Although playing mainly guitar, Alhassane's instrumental entourage includes many Central Saharan strings such as Molo and Gurmi and today brings some masterfully crafted sounds further reminding us that instruments... can sing too.

Born in 1963 in Niamey, Niger, Abdoulaye Alhassane's music is rich in intricate rhythms, joyous enthusiasm, and beautiful modes; a complexity that stems from growing up in a multi-ethnic neighborhoods in which music was the central part of identity and the daily lives of many. In fact music filled everything from local stores, homes, to radios. But the true inspiration for Alhassane's later work came from all the cassettes his parents brought from Mali (which included music from artists such as Ibrahim Hamma Dicko and Fissa Maiga). The originality of the sounds and voices he heard made him experiment with his very own style and, after many nights spent listening to his uncle's band at the local nightclub, Abdoulaye became a full-time musician. Soon he took on mastering flute and guitar while the rest of his band incorporated electric guitar, bass, drums, merging regional folk music with international pop - a combination that led them to win the national music competition and to be the first Niemey music group to travel abroad to record in a studio. In no time Abdoulaye's guitar mastery was featured on many CDs including Denke Denke (1999) and Alatoumi (2000).

Below you will find the recording of Abdoulaye Alhassane's live performance with Banning Eyre at WFMU Transpacific Sound Paradise.

Alhassane, however, proved to be much more than a performer. He was also a mentor to many young and aspiring singers, launching careers of Moussa Poussy and many other singers from Niger, for whom he helped to compose and arrange the music that won the hearts of its fans.

Eventually, Abdoulaye's musical gift brought him to New York City, where he now lives and performs with the current band, Deep Sahara. One day, however, the musician plans to travel back to Niger in order to open a studio; until than, however, he will surely remain one of the most riveting African guitarists in US.

Related Links:
Abdoulaye Alhassane Official Website
Abdoulaye Alhassane on Myspace
Abdoulaye Alhassane on Facebook

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States License.

Ne:o is a German band that mixes a whole lot of genres to create an essentially artistic piece of work. The group recently released a live performance compilation to cap off their  German tour last 2009. It wasn't meant to be the last group performance but until today it remains to be seen whether the guys will be getting back together or not.

The album is available at Aaahh Records as well as on Internet Archive. Ne:o played songs from previous albums, âne:omuzicâ, âmusikkritikâ and the critically acclaimed, âillojâ. Listening to this band is like taking a wonderful, psychedelic music trip where you encounter layers and layers of sound as well as instruments that beautifully harmonize or mingle with each other.

Direkt is a spirited live performance from ne:o. It comes with 8 tracks that is filled with a wonderful mix of rock, electronica, jazz and pop all rolled into one. The album was recorded live at the Thalia cinema in Dresden back in December 2009. It has now become the bands final performance to date and was released as an album in conjunction with tonAtom, a German netlabel, back in May 12th.

Among the songs worth checking out include opening track, inn, which is a bluesy, prog/electronic love affair. Even if you consider yourself a bystander when it comes to electronic experimental music; it's not difficult to appreciate this one. There's a deftness and inherent balance that makes this song very enjoyable. Also, to achieve such precision in replicating their songs on a live set, is quite remarkable. Another great track is the upbeat, jazz pop cut, Je lieber. I love the retro disco vibe of the song. It definitely adds a sense of fun without going cheesy on the track.

Overall, the compilation is pretty intriguing. There are countless songs that you can enjoy even if you aren't really a fan of electro/electronic pop music. The amazing thing is that this compilation was performed live. It adds to a whole new depth and showcases the amount of talent these guys have.

Related Links:
ne:0 on Aaahh Records
ne:o on tonAtom
ne:o on Archive.org

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Germany License.

Eric (vocals/piano/guitar), Bryan (guitar/vocals), Mike (bass), and JD (drums) - The Sliders - have been playing together until their voices were sore and fingers blistered in the basements and garages of Long Island for years now.

They have been stirring up their hometown crowds while performing at many of the local venues until finally, with their first EP Eric & The Sliders released in 2007, they got their first big break onto the rock scene of NYC.

Now with the official release of their first full length album City by the Sound, filled with wonderful blues-inspired pop rock sounds, the band did it again. So be sure to download the five amazing songs from the album, handpicked (by The Sliders) specially for our readers.

Ever since their first EP, the band spent countless hours writing, practicing, and recording their new material, all while adding even more amazing live shows to their already hectic schedules. They have performed at the Bamboozle Festival in 2010, numerous venues in NYC, Long Island, and many of the cities in Northeast including Philadelphia, Washington D.C., New Haven, and Ithaca.

In the end, however, keeping more than just busy paid off with the release of their first full length album City by the Sound in April of 2011. Produced by Jim Wirt (Incubus, Hoobastank, Jack's Mannequin, The Rocket Summer) the album came with a number of great reviews and eleven great pop-rock treats ready to melt your heart.

Our special release of five handpicked songs from the album begins with City by the Sound, probably one of the most upbeat tracks, equipped with an amazing guitar solo ready to get you up on your feet and lyrics that will certainly remind you of all the adventures growing up in suburb of a big city.

But don't worry, if you didn't grow up i the 'suburb of a big apple' there is still plenty of songs just for you. There is Chasing After You with its catchy melody and flawless drums, and Underground, filled with great sounding vocals all wrapped in the unique blend of rock and blues influences. And if you are ready for something just a bit more softer be sure to check out one of my very favorite songs from the release,The Dreamer, which comes with some of the most powerful vocals you will hear in any of the tracks.

All in all, The Sliders have definitely grew since their very first days playing in the basements and garages of Long Island, and their music have quickly evolved into a blues-inspired pop rock sound that now sets them apart from the masses of power chord bands.

"The Sliders are hungry for the masses" so be sure to let them inside of your sacred iTunes libraries, turn up your speakers, and share the love.

(If you like what you hear be sure to visit iTunes to get the copy of the full album and Like Them on their Facebook page!)

Related Links:
The Sliders Official Website
The Sliders on Facebook
The Sliders on MySpace
The Sliders on Twitter
The Sliders on YouTube

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Derek Clegg serenades our ears once again with his distinctive brand of Indie-Folk in his new album, ‘Here Comes Your Fate, Quick Duck’. This album is tremendously good for easy-listening and regardless of what you normally listen to, prepare to be temporarily converted. Indie Folk seems to be the foundation of Clegg’s music, although, at times he intertwines genres such as country and rock. His music is never predictable; each track change also comes with a new surprise. This can be partly attributed to Clegg’s impressive repertoire of multi-instrumental abilities. Clegg’s vocals are also extremely versatile, he modifies himself as a vocalist to suit the style of each song.

Clegg chooses to introduce his album with a song called 'It’s Over’ and in my opinion this is one of the more country-blues inspired songs of the album. Speaking in first person, Clegg tells the story of a failed relationship and conveys emotions in which accompany a break-up. Lyrically, this song is well written. It provides some insightful metaphors and it efficiently conveys a sense of sadness and closure. The main guitar riff is appealing and a constant and simple drum beat complements this.

Once again, troubled relationships are the theme for the song ‘Don’t Care’. Personally, this is my favorite song on this album. It is quite simple (with only a few instruments being played) and its style reminds me of mainstream acoustic performer, Ben Lee. The vocal effect used on the vocalist’s voice in the chorus communicates a sense of inspiration to a listener and is a real asset to the song. Clegg also uses dynamics to his advantage through the way in which he plays his acoustic guitar. This particularly stood out in the pre-chorus of this song. For example, in the verse prior to this, Clegg strums his guitar in a hard and defined manor; however, this then changes to a relatively delicate volume and strum pattern. This really emphasizes the future chorus.

This is only a preview of what Derek Clegg has to offer. Like I said before, this album is extremely diverse and every song has its own identity. Check it out!

Related Links:

Derek Clegg Official Site
Derek Clegg on Bandcamp
Derek Clegg on Facebook

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

British acoustic folk pop act, Jespa or j*e*s*p*a "are an acoustic folk, soul and blues duo based in london, playing their hearts out to everyone who'll listen." That description from their Myspace might sound generic but they do have a great set of cuts to back them up.

Their 5 track self-titled EP is filled with lush and melodic cuts that make you wish you had it playing as background music for every quiet and lonely moment you ever have. j*e*s*p*a is composed of James Pepper on guitar, mandolin and vocals plus Anthony Shepherd on vocals and guitar. For their EP, the duo has put together quiet, acoustic guitar filled cuts that make you just want to sit back, relax and think. One of the standout features of this album includes the gorgeous, clear and strong vocals as well as the emotion that's behind every uttered word.

One of the best tracks to listen to includes opener, Orla. It showcases  beautiful lyrics with very consistent guitar strumming. After the somewhat soft and quiet intro, it moves on to a slightly upbeat tempo that's coupled with melodic guitar picking plus very clean vocal work. On the other hand, What God Meant might seem like a monotone track with its basic guitar strumming but it is nevertheless, full of emotion. Settle Up, Waiting at the Station and Belong To You round up the rest of the tracks on the compilation.

Perhaps the biggest draw for fans of this simple album is the expressive yet strong vocals that comes with each track. Currently, the group is busy with doing live shows. Some of the highlights they've listed for the year 2010 so far include having two tracks released in iTunes and Spotify, opening for the Lockstock Festival 2010 in Camden and touring Finland back in June-July 2010.

Related Links:
jespa Official Website
jespa Official Blog
jespa on Myspace
jespa on Jamendo

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.