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Corinna Rose - self-titled country acoustic folk from Montreal native

Valerie — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:01:26 +0000

Folk songs always make me smile. There's something about that slight honky tonk banjo sound that makes me think of life as a piece of cake.

This self-titled debut from Corinna Rose is no exception. It comes with that feel-good sound that you can play over and over again without getting tired. This is the first compilation for the singer, although she's released several singles before this one.

This time around, she's armed with an acoustic guitar, a banjo along with her beautiful voice; ready to showcase a short EP that is both enjoyable and worthy of a listen.

Corinna Rose is actually the moniker of Corey Gulkin; a Montreal based singer that admits to being influenced by artists as diverse as Weezer and Regina Spektor. It's this love for folk, pop and rock that has helped shape the tracks in this record. The album brilliantly captures a warmth and a certain joy sometimes the lyrics are also quite thought provoking.

Opening with Belle Guitare, Rose sings about getting her guitar as well as the many things about life. From wishing to have "a less simple life" to talking about losing grip on their partners. It's an upbeat song that sticks for a good long while after a few listens. It's followed by a melodic track titled, Hymn for the Hearbreaker, where the artist shows off her banjo playing skills. Moreover, Amanda is also another quiet track which showcases Corinna's skillful banjoy playing and knack for creating dreamy folk cuts.

The EP is capped off with Born On a Mountain, which ends the record in an upbeat tempo. It also makes you think of lush countrysides where you can run around and simply feel good about everyday life.

Overall, you get an exciting compilation that's perfect for folk lovers everywhere. It's a bit too short and ends rather abruptly just when you're starting to fall in love with the songs but nevertheless, it serves as a great introduction to the artist and what we can expect in the future. Take a listen.

Dolphins: Galaxy Train - fresh tracks crafted from timeless music

Mona — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:01:54 +0000

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Prepare for an eargasmic experience with Dolphins' Galaxy Train. Released under Hipbones Records last March 14, 2011, the four-track album is filled with a bit of everything, from country, surf pop to punk.

Zach, Joel and Jesse, better known as the Dolphins have so much raw energy and talent. With influences such as Rocky Erickson, Echo and the Bunnymen, The Clash, and The Beach Boys, you could only expect exceptional music from these guys.

Girl opens up with a pure vintage vibe and charming pop hooks. I can just imagine this as the perfect opening track to a sunny 70's movie.

Wasted follows up with a more aggressive approach. The Dolphins mainly used fuzzy electric guitars and rapid drumbeats while slowing down to a hypnotic chorus.

Fronting the same instrumentation as that of the previous track, Lessons flutters down with a heavy punk sensibility. The loud yet perfectly blended instrumentation would surely make you lose yourself like a teenager in a rock concert.

The title track, Galaxy Train, tones down like a glass of cold water after dancing. Soothing tribal beats are mixed with an almost-ethereal vocal producing an electrifying soundscape.

All in all, Galaxy Train buzzes with a youthful and fresh vibe. The Dolphins surely did a great job with offering a new approach to timeless favorites producing revitalizing tracks that are worth repeating.

Chloë Sunshine: Indian Summer - whimsical tunes for a chill-out weekend

Mona — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:01:51 +0000

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Listed as one of Boston’s band to watch for 2012, Chloë Sunshine traffics between surf pop and whimsical avenue. The up-comers fronted by Kendall Chloë Eagan offers Indian Summer, a collection of seven vibrant tracks that captures slices of love in a non-conventional way.

Sugar-filled piano keys spread in Love, Love, Love. This song plays on the realm of child-like wonder while exploring the subject of a new found love. Chloë’s voice is really captivating; it blends well with the piano and the catchy lines. A playlist must-have, this is the perfect soundtrack for a weekend road trip.

I Try continues the pop-art sensibility set by the opening track. The incorporation of subtle wave sounds in the background transports the listener to a summer fling by the beach. Modern House, on the other hand, sheds off a 60’s disco rock tune that relies heavily on thick guitar and upbeat drum beats.

Without You makes use of pure strings and a folk vibe. I personally like the toned down instrumentation. A layered vocal lends itself so well to Chloë’s voice sending it to ethereal heights.

Closing up with a heavenly finale is We Are Free. Accompanied with glowing piano keys and soothing violin solos, this ballad produces a sweet melancholy. But the artist surprises us in the middle when fuzzy guitars steps onto the scene creating a great contrast within one piece.

Indian Summer is that kind of album that progresses from country pop to epic soundscapes without compromising its folk charm. Chloë Sunshine’s quirky and soft offerings craft a tasteful musical treat that will surely ignite the ears.

Flights: Anywhere But Where I Am - melodic quiet acoustic folk

Valerie — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:36 +0000

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If you're expecting some alternative punk duo to greet you when you listen to this record, then think again. What you'll find instead is a gorgeous blend of ethereal, folky indie pop sound that, well, sounds great as in-flight music.

The band is actually made up of duo Eric Hillman and Brian Holl. Gathering influences from bands like Broken Social Scene, Radiohead, Bon Iver, Bjork and Aqualung; the duo echoes off the same laid-back, melodic and sometimes eclectic indie folk as their influences.

Anywhere But Where I Am comes with 13 tracks and was released over at BandCamp on New Years Day 2012.

The Nashville, TN duo kicks things off with the song From The Lake To the Land. Starting serenely with simple guitars and a reflective mood, the track seems fit as a lullaby to a dark, dreary day. There's a slight haunting feel to it, much like exploring a lush forest in the early morning.

Meanwhile, title track Anywhere But Where I Am, is a personal favorite in the album. This one is a 3 minute instrumental piece featuring classical piano playing. It's a gorgeous track that sparks both a hint of sadness and fond memories. On the other hand, final cut, Fake Arms, combines simple guitars and Damien Rice-sounding vocals.

Overall, you'll find some great company with this album. All of the songs feel as if they live and breathe with you and would make the perfect soundtrack to your everyday musings.

The record is currently offered at a name-your-price option at BandCamp. Apart from the duo, it also features Charles Asch and Hitoshi Yamaguchi on cello and Ben Voce on violin. Take a listen and grab the download.

Grand Child: My Head Is In The Clouds

Valerie — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:01:08 +0000

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My Head Is In The Clouds is the second release from Texas native, Grand Child. Composed of one man behind the scenes, namely Andy Lane; the album is a gorgeous mix of folk, psychedelia and acoustic indie pop.

Lane originally played for punk/ska band, Driver F. This is his solo project and it's nowhere near the music he plays with his band. His sound instead focuses on acoustic folk while incorporating psychedelia, and some catchy pop tunes here and there. It's a nice little record worth exploring if you want an album that's laid-back yet a little different to keep you company.

Sharing his penchant for folky melodic cuts, My Head in the Clouds begins with the uptempo number, I Know. It's a simple track that seems to float and dance around in the wind. There are a lot of things happening in the song, it combines a gypsy folkish vibe one minute while smoothly welcoming violins and heavier drums the next.

Sidekick, on the other hand, contains great vocal work and progresses from a slow folky track to a more alternative indie rock song near the middle. Lane has the capacity to easily switch up genres and mold them together seamlessly. Meanwhile, he finishes the short record with A Song To Die To. This one is a bit more cinematic with guitars and swelling violins occupying much of the track.

In the end, you get to take a sneak peek of what goes on in the mind of the artist. His love for different genres creates a stamp on the record. This also helps to mold the EP's voice; giving it that distinct identity in a sea of easily-forgotten-musicians.

Go ahead and grab the download. You can get it at a name-your-price option at BandCamp.

Emily Baker: House of Cards - easy listening indie acoustic folk

Valerie — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:01:10 +0000

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Emily Baker might just be the next acoustic country folk singer to watch out for. After winning the 2009 Arts Foundation Fellowship in Songwriting award, Emily's star has been shining more than ever.

House of Cards is the debut album for the singer and with the amount of attention it has received, there's bound to be plenty more to follow.

The album itself is simple in delivery yet it comes armed with solid songwriting. Emily plays much of the instruments as well including the acoustic guitar, ukulele, glockenspiel, percussion and of course, her melodic vocals.

The album is packed with 11 cuts that are simple but endearing. Emily has a knack for making simplicity sound amazing; adding that extra touch of melodic beauty you hardly encounter from songs anymore. Even though she's fairly new to the game, the artist has captured the eyes of several prominent players in the industry, leading her to perform alongside artists like Frank Turner, Beth Rowley, Pete Doherty and Gabriella Cilmi.

When you listen to House of Cards, you'll realize just why the artist has become a hot commodity so fast. Starting with Hit and Run, the song carefully walks the line between country and folk while adding the artist's recognizable vocals. Although the song isn't as catchy or impressionable as I wish, the melody is nevertheless gorgeous and calming.

Most of the other tracks are similar in feel and composition but some of them do step out and grab your attention. Half in Bits is melodramatic but it's a cut that showcases Emily's capacity to infuse her lyrics with sincerity and heartfelt emotion. It's followed by Rich Man's Weekend, which is one of the catchiest tunes on the record. My personal favorite from the album is Fools Rush In. There's a nice quirky feel to the song that makes it really easy to listen to. Moreover, the vocal work takes center stage and the song itself deviates from the rest of the cuts in the album.

You can say the record doesn't have enough variety but it is her first album after all. Personally, even though her vocals are suitable for much of the quiet, mellow cuts on here, the artist still needs to step up and make herself a little more memorable. It's a great album to serve as a background soundtrack to your day though, so if you need some of that then this one should do great. Take a listen maybe this is exactly what you need after a long day.

The District Attorneys: Waiting on the Calm Down, The Basement Sessions EP

Valerie — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:01:07 +0000

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Laid-back and charming, these two words can best describe the sound of The District Attorneys. Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP is a short compilation meant to introduce and haul in fans as they wait for the guys to release a full record.

Consisting of a six-piece crew from Athens, GA; they first started back in 2009 playing their form of classic rock. From melodic rock ballads to uptempo indie surf rock affairs, you get a good mix from this little compilation.

These boys know their way around music. From creating catchy hooks, tight lyrics and great instrument work, there's plenty of fun up ahead with this record.

Waiting on the Calm Down couldn't have started on a better track than, California Fire. The song is the epitome of beautiful laid-back rock. There's a nice beat that's makes you want to soak up the sun and just drop everything to enjoy the day. The vocals don't take front and center, but instead merges beautifully with the instruments and melody.

It's followed by a massively catchy, Slowburner; a cut that shines in the record. Again, there's a summer vibe going on; perfect for lifting your spirits if you're going through a dreary winter morning. Meanwhile, Far Past the Point of Resolve continuous on with the relaxing atmosphere while The End, takes the band down a quieter route. They incorporate pianos and twangy guitars in this one along with a very slight country feel.

They then cap off the record with a cover of Gillian Welch's song, Wrecking Ball. Their version isn't my favorite on here, in fact, I think it could have done better without it. Nevertheless, if you listen to the first five tracks, you'll realize that The District Attorneys is one band that's worth noting. Grab the download and take a listen.

Oh!Hello: Spooky - calming pop wilderness tunes

Mona — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:01:43 +0000

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Oh!Hello's follow-up to their delightful EP Beachy, is a curious thing.

Originally a solo project, this Portland, Oregon band is composed of frontman Michael Todd Berland, Jordan Strickland and Nate Morse. They have already collaborated with other NW bands such as Grifflin Taylor (Faire du Surf) and Ed Hanson (Greate Horned Owl).

Their latest set Spooky is a seven-track album released last October 27 and recorded under Vampire Factory.

The album is a strange mix of pop wilderness and aesthetic pleasure. It launches with Good Evening, a perfect opening track to set the spooky theme throughout. The techniques used are amazing such as the echoing electric vocals creating a sound of water ripples. This, accompanied with subtle acoustic strums and some chirping birds transport you to the middle of a forest during twilight.

Ghost Party is a must-hear. Berland manages to blend tribal beats with rhythmic ukuleles resulting in a satisfying upbeat song.

Haunted House is a pitch-perfect gem with soothing vocals that stretches throughout the whole track. This song will surely calm your senses after a busy day.

The album ends in the stripped down track entitled Wolfie. I loved the layered hypnotic voice of Berland along with playful strings which is the forefront of this song. The whistling sound on some parts are perfectly placed, producing a charming track that you'd want to listen again and again.

I admire Oh!Hello because it explores other musical avenues. Their sound reflects how much potential and creativity they have. Currently, the band is recording its full debut album (Wilderness), I can't wait to check this out!

Dylan Pratt: Lifters & Leaners - contemplative acoustic folk to enjoy

Valerie — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 15:01:34 +0000

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It's always exciting to stumble upon a record that you know will be a part of your daily music routine for a long while. Dylan Pratt and his album, Lifters & Leaners, is one of those records.

The album is a first for the singer/songwriter. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a soft and melodic voice along with beautiful lyrics; the album is the perfect capper after a long hard day at work. It also features quite a few guest musicians helping him complete the songs.

Much of the record is composed of sweet, acoustic classic folk. So expect this album to be your perfect companion on dreary days, when all you want to do is cuddle in the comfort of your bed or maybe stay-in and enjoy a quiet evening.

Dylan Pratt proves that sometimes all you need is a guitar, good lyrics and a voice to create lovely music. Lifters & Leaners takes a stripped down approach to songmaking. Almost all of the tracks exude an acoustic sound with a few actually plugging in and employing electric guitars.

Although the artist impresses with his upbeat indie rock tracks like, Soap Box and Beasties; he excels in his quiet singles best. Fall Awake has that country folk vibe reminiscent of Dan Fogelberg or most 60s/70s classic folk artist. Another track, Peace Will Never Come, is as simple as it can get. Pratt has a knack for accompanying beautiful melodic guitar playing with endearing lyrics. His expressive voice lends sincerity to the words he sings which is quite important for most folk songs like this.

Meanwhile, title track, Lifters & Leaners also exhibit this gorgeous relaxing folk sound. This last song balances with the upbeat opener and leaves listeners with a nice remembrance of the record while at the same time urging them to listen to it again soon.

Dylan Pratt definitely has his niche covered. The album features good recording with snippets of raw, even DIY quality here and there. This just adds to the candor and appeal of the record. It's a compilation worth checking out especially for folk lovers everywhere.

California Condors: Calm Carnivore - cool folk indie classic rock

Valerie — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:01:29 +0000

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The California Condors is not just the name for the largest North American land bird, but also the equivalent of a 3 piece West Coast crew that plays some infectious contemporary indie rock along with a slight 60s/70s touch.

These Orange County natives count The Beatles, Willie Nelson and Neil Young among their influences. Indeed their distinctive sound echoes with this influence.

Calm Carnivore is a 12-track album that's filled with skillful writing, great arrangements and spot-on performance. It's a feat rarely seen among bands today, let alone newcomers in the industry.

The album is a first for the crew but they've been garnering impressive reviews so far. Their sound has been described by Brandon Ferguson from the OC Weekly as containing "...genius songwriting...smooth voice(s) and excellent guitar work." When you listen to the band, it's not hard to see what would prompt this adulation.

Opening single and title track, Calm Carnivore, exudes with a 60s/70s rock and roll vibe. The facial hair these guys sport aren't just for show. Their sound makes me think that I'm listening to a hippie rock band from the years past. The melodic vocals and signature guitars play a big role as well.

Meanwhile, Leave No Mark, is a melodic track that's accompanied by sweet guitars and that Beatle-esque vibe. Growing Weed, is a quirky little track featuring lyrics like "I wanna grow like a weed and ruin your garden...strangle all your flowers pretending I'm their friend. Stealing all their sunshine, I will see them wilt until the very end."

Overall, Calm Carnivore is a very good record. It might not be everyone's taste but it certainly was mine. The album caters to those who have a soft spot for folk and classic rock. If you're into this, then you'll definitely find a nice treat in this record. Give it a download.