FrostClick.com » Electro

Karma Tree: Sleepium - indie pop rock with a whole lot in between

Valerie — Mon, 21 May 2012 13:01:37 +0000

Karma Tree mostly sounds like a Swedish version of Vampire Weekend. Although occasionally they venture out and mix alternative and sugar pop, it's hard to deny that the boys have a knack for the indie sound.

Sleepium is the full length debut for the trio. It was recorded late 2009 and released the following year. Much of the songs on here showcase the band's penchant of mixing everything up, they can easily go from pop with bright twinkly guitars, to heavy metal sounding riffs and even boyband sounding beats.

Soak, is the first single that greets you when you put on the record. It's a three minute track that seems confused about its identity. Opening rather slow with melancholic, Morissey-esque vibe, it then moves to an acoustic bit before embracing a slight new wave demeanor for a couple seconds then back to twinkly moderate tempo pop.

On the other hand, if you jump to the third track, Hipster Clouds, you'd be forgiven to think that the band is a hardcore alternative rock group after hearing the first few minutes of the song. It features heavy guitars and drumming before settling for a more mellow pop rock beat. Meanwhile, Words Just Won't Do, sees the band in their element. Personally, I prefer it when they sound like this. They seem more comfortable without any hint of "trying too hard."

Overall, even though the record has several tracks worth checking out. Much of the songs have this annoying habit of switching gears/genres/ beats right in the middle or towards the end part. It's possible that the band is doing this as some sort of statement for their sound. Personally, though, it gets quite irritating when you listen to it. It's all good the first one or two cuts but when you hear it on almost every single track, it gets old really fast. More so, if you're enjoying a particular song or beat and it suddenly turns topsy turvy out of nowhere.

Regardless, even if the album doesn't completely work for me, this band could be just what you're looking for. Take a listen and grab the download if you like what you hear.

DFRNT: Actaeon EP - another great release from CUT Music

Valerie — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:01:46 +0000

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Continuing on with their bevy of strong releases, Cut Music debuts their tenth compilation album. This time it's from Scottish producer DFRNT. Known for his minimalistic style, the artist has created a record that includes 3 originals and 2 remixes.

Actaeon EP comes with a collection of 5 tracks that resonate with cryptic drum and bass that ebbs and flows beautifully. Coupled with the occasional vocal sample and ethnic instrumentation, the record is a moody compilation that crosses boundaries.

This is the second EP released by Cut music for 2012 and so far it's showcasing a rather different approach compared to their previous compilations. Although it's slower and more minimal, the rich sound is nevertheless still apparent.

Opening with the intricate Dark Spaces, this 4-minute track is perhaps the darkest one in the record. It features a range of sounds, with clear dub style bass and the occasional complementary vocals. Meanwhile, Everything, combines a more easygoing atmosphere that brings in a hint of sunshine to the album. One of those cuts that's perfect for relaxing on a lazy day.

The remixes included are Smoothiesforme - Will This Ever End and Seba - Painted Sky. The former is airy and slightly upbeat while the latter features a more tribal, world music touch yet still exudes that trademark DFRNT minimal bass and rhythm.

In the end, Cut music doesn't disappoint with this one. It slightly veers off a different direction compared to their previous releases but it still has that characteristic feel that makes it worth checking out. Pretty good record if you want something cool and without much fuss. Take a listen.

Aucan: Black Rainbow Remixes - riveting and engaging remix compilation from Aucan

Valerie — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:01:57 +0000

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Making another big splash here on Frostclick, Aucan returns with a new and exciting free release. Their previous album, Black Rainbow, which was featured here on the blog has been received with arms wide open. To date, it has reached more than 100,000 downloads (and still counting.)

Aucan is a three piece, unconventional live electronics band that has been steadily gaining plenty of ground with their sound. Actually, it's not just their sound but also their live performances that have been generating quite a buzz.

This latest release, Black Rainbow Remixes contains 11 remixed tracks; delivered fresh by the savvy trio and available for free in exchange for a tweet, a Facebook shout or your email address.

If you're already a fan of Aucan, then you'd love the twist they added to the tracks in this remix album. Featuring collaborations and guest appearances from talented MCs like mcDalek and SpexMC; the album incorporates a strong hip hop/dub touch while still maintaining the staple Aucan electro/dub sound.

Opening songs like Storm and Away! are perfect for revving up a party. With its thumping bass and heavy synths, it'd be hard to deny yourself a good time when listening to these tracks. Meanwhile, Heartless, Embarque and title track, Black Rainbow, also gets a must-listen stamp if you want to get a pretty good idea what Aucan and this record is all about.

Black Rainbow Remixes is an album that listeners can easily get lost in. The one thing with Aucan is that when you listen to their songs, it's not difficult to imagine how epic it would be if it was actually performed live. With the many layers of instruments and gadgets crashing and colliding; their songs create a unique sonic experience that should be worth checking out. Go ahead and grab the download. This one is a real find.

Badbadnotgood: BBNG2 - eclectic mix of jazzy dub step music

Valerie — Sun, 06 May 2012 13:01:58 +0000

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As creepy as the cover image is, the sound that emanates from this album is nothing short of exquisite techno dub jazz.

BBNG2 is an awesome mix of original and rehashed tracks from such favorites like My Bloody Valentine and even Kanye West.

Generally classified as "jazz," this is nowhere near your Grandpappy's jazz music thanks to a deeply wrapped thumping bass, electronics and a whole lot of hip hop/electro vibe. The songs on here feature a lateral transformation of jazz music; giving the sound a more modern and interesting feel.

Badbadnotgood is made up of three Toronto natives (Alex Sowinski - drums, Matt Tavares - keys, and Chester Hansen- bass) that are all under 21 years old. According to a little footnote on their BandCamp page, "this album was recorded in one 10 hour session. Thanks to our friends, family, loved ones and anyone who fucks with us."

Indeed, the album sounds like a spontaneous recording; with various drums, guitars and keys wrapping itself in one big bear hug. Nevertheless, the songs come out confident and well done.

A few of my personal favorites include opening single Earl, which flows with a slight menacing feel thanks to its deep bass. Limit To Your Love (a Feist original) is another favorite and more true to the sound of the original. Meanwhile, there are 5 original compositions in the album. Among them, Vices; a song that starts as a slow paced enigmatic number that picks up speed as it goes. It's a great track to help see what the boys are capable of when left with their instruments.

Badbadnotgood might be a bit eclectic for mainstream jazz/dub lovers but the boys definitely have something special up their sleeve. Their capacity to pluck out an existing single and transform it into something new and interesting is worth raving about. Moreover, their originals also prove they can create music from scratch without a problem. In the end, it's a great record to check out if you ask me. Take a listen and grab the download.

Maximus York: Freedomtown EP - groovy electro dance house mini compilation

Valerie — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 13:01:59 +0000

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Deep bass, wild party synths and smooth disco feel; this amazing compilation is courtesy of Los Angeles native, Santiago Calogero. Better known under the alias, Maximus York; Freedomtown EP is his latest release.

It comes with four free tracks that you can download and check out. Combining a flurry of beats and some upbeat thumping bass, the songs seem perfectly destined for any hot nightspot where dancing is the main topic.

Freshly released and all original, Freedomtown EP features various instruments, synths and samples thrown in huge vat of electronic house music. Opening title track already showers listeners with a nice rhythm that's absolutely tailor made for the dance club. Its followed by, Wrong Place, Wrong Time with its 80s style disco beat and modern synths. One of those tracks you can't help but tap your feet or bob your head with wherever you might be listening from.

Timetravel Tuesdays (Original Mix) by Maximus York

Meanwhile, Time Travel Tuesdays and Like You Mean It, fill up the second half of the short EP. Both songs are danceable and are saturated with keyboards and spacey sounds; conjuring images of futuristic disco travel of sorts. It actually seems like the type of music they would play on the Starship Enterprise if they were having a disco party up there in space.

Even though the EP is quite short at only four songs, you get a great helping of electro, dance music to enjoy. Take a listen and grab the download. It deserves a worthy spot on your playlist.

Kit Oh Nein!: KON! - indie space rock worth grabbing

Valerie — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 13:01:19 +0000

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Feel-good psych punk with a touch of indie rock is one way to describe Kit Oh Nein!'s music. The three piece band hails from Detroit/NYC and seems to know their way around the sound.

Led by frontman Ryan Milligan from The Hotwalls, KON! (an acronym of the band's name) is the group's debut record. The album contains 10 tracks that run circles around punk, pop, and psychedelic indie rock.

Enveloped in raw energy as well as a hazy indie rock club vibe, it's hard to believe the entire set of tracks were recorded in only 3 days. This is one of those debut albums worth checking out if you like dirty, cerebral indie punk rock.

At times resonating like MUSE, the band combines spacey sounds with murky guitars and shouty, sometimes incoherent vocals. This doesn't diminish the allure though, in fact, all of the elements come together to create their one-of-a-kind sound.

Opening the album is the super catchy, Cloud Nein. Perhaps one of the best tracks in the album, the single sounds off The Kinks' garage pop sound in places. Meanwhile, you'll find tracks like, Octavia, to be a bit more new wave influenced; playing heavily on distortion and louder instruments in general. Ponzi, on the other hand, sounds like a whole range of noises and inarticulate singing but coupled with a good beat while the last song, Cheater, is an upbeat single that you could imagine The Strokes playing.

KON! was released back in December 2011 and despite being new, the band seems to have a good grasp of their chosen niche. Whether you like jangly guitars and warbled vocals or not, there's no doubt you'll probably enjoy this one. Kit Oh Nein! has a knack for creating likable songs even if you have no clue where it's heading or even where it's from. Worth checking out if you ask me.

Wacky Southern Current: In a Realm of Uncertain Summer

Valerie — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:01:53 +0000

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Wacky Southern Current is a compilation of 9 tracks that herald a beautiful post rock feel. This time around, the artist returns to No-Source netlabel for releasing their second album, In a Realm of Uncertain Summer.

The title is a bit misleading since the tracks are neither wacky nor completely Southern, in fact, it's a set of melodic, acoustic post rock that serves as a the ideal mood setter for your quiet moments.

Made up of Marco Cervellin, the Italian instrumentalist manages to balance a range of genres in one relaxing record. This is slightly different from his first release, but it still captures fleeting emotions to a tee.

While listening to In a Realm of Uncertain Summer, listeners are treated to a fusion of sound that flow together like a dreamy landscape. Its almost like looking through a kaleidoscope lens but instead of colors, all you see is black and white.

Starting things with a one minute intro, the album continues on with a track called Theme for the Uncertain Summer. The song makes me think of movie sequences where the lead character is looking through the window of his or her car, taking in their surrounding with an unattached attitude; almost like an outsider. The carefully crafted melody is perfect, while the slight guitars and hint of drums cap it off nicely. Most of the other cuts run in the same vein, those worth noting include the Naked Mountain Song and Eventide.

If you like listening to smooth and melodic post rock, then this is an album that shouldn't be passed up. Each cut allows you to wander and explore; creating a gorgeous downtempo/minimal soundscape along the way. You can grab the download over at Internet Archive. This one is available for free.

Flag White: Let Go EP - fall back in love with the synths and lush dream waves

Mona — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:01:46 +0000

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Flag White undergoes a musical overhaul. The scandinavian post-punk band member Bjørn Alexander Gøtzsche Lange returns to the good-all synth in his latest EP, Let Go.

Released last April 2011, the five-track album is a view into the progress of an artist who tries to maneuver nightmares and dreams into a splendid musical collection.

Rekindling a lost tie from synth, Another Song opens up with a mix of pop beats and dream wave. Echoing vocals add a dreamy vibe to the track.

Far Away touches the subject of forgetting and letting go. Close your eyes and let your mind float as its echoing vocals and lazy tunes keep a soothing vibe throughout.

Tracks like Your Heart Beats Mine, My Heartbeats Yours and Alaska are melodically impressive. Lyrically, Flag White is making strides to create concise and clever wordplays.

Closing track, Of Laughter and Forgetting, sets an appropriate tone for the emotionally peeling lyrics. It perfectly captures his successful attempt to get out of the box.

There’s nothing braver than an artist who explores undiscovered territories. In Let Go, Bjørn Alexander Gøtzsche Lange, better known as Flagwhite, grabbed the opportunity to build his versatility as a musician.

The album is available as a pay-what-you-want/free download in bandcamp.

Dempsey: Dempsey - chill out on electro dreampop waves

Mona — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:01:35 +0000

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Hop on the time machine with Dempsey’s new self-titled EP. The California-raised duo of Niels Pederson and Adam Abilgaard offers Dempsey, a collection of six dreampop tracks released last September 15. This set will surely give you that 80’s electro pastiche vibe.

Bass riffs and heavy beats drop in Late Night taking you back to the glam, glittery disco fever. The album makes an emotional turn in Flashback. Prepare for a nostalgic high with its breathy vocals and strong lines as “I’ll never forget you”.

Sex on the Beach gives a youthful perspective on love. I personally liked this song due to its catchy tune and pop melody. The clever addition of wave sounds transports the listener on the beach, chilling during a summer fling.

An infectious finale awaits with Never Knew. The heavenly keys and heart-felt lyrics make this the most crafted track on the album. Press play and listen to its utter complexity, arranged with layers over layers of electro tunes.

Dempsey proved that they are more than meets the eye. It’s a tough act to revive such a glamorous music genre, but the band pulled it off offering a fresh take of the 80’s dreampop. For such young and promising artists, they have showed mature craftsmanship. I could imagine bigger hits in the near future.

Most of the vocal and guitar tracks were recorded by Garrett Bevins of Boomtheoryproductions.com while the eclectic cover art is by Albigaard himself. It’s available as a pay-what-you-want/free download.

Related Links:
Dempsey on Bandcamp
Dempsey on Facebook

Beat Culture: Tokyo Dreamer - beautiful electro ambient compilation

Valerie — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 13:01:02 +0000

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A fairly fresh ambient compilation that's already generating buzz among internet music fans; Beat Culture's Tokyo Dreamer is looking forward to a great year.

The 17 year old musician behind the album is a Korean born, USA based, Sunik Kim. He's fairly new in the musical playing field but he's definitely showing promise by expertly combining various synth sounds with careful pianos and pitched shift vocals.

As a results, the album is a rich hodge podge of sound that reflects an electronic ambient feel along with a hint of shoegaze rock for those few.

Tokyo Dreamer contains tracks that would be perfect for dance clubs and quiet musings. Starting with the enigmatic, Shoreline; the track is a trippy mix of high volume synths and vocals that effortlessly combine to create a sonic landscape. The slower moments are equally filled in with piano work that twinkle and pulse randomly over the 2 minutes plus single.

Other cuts worth taking a listen to include Coastal Sentiments which features Beyonce's Emotions; title-track, Tokyo Dreamer as well as the sparkly dance beat, Memory (Cassettes.) One of the things that tie the songs together is the constant running water at the background. This gives a sense of coherence to the cuts and turning the album into a unified whole.

If you're looking for some chillout ambient sounds to accompany you, Tokyo Dreamer won't disappoint. It's a fairly good album that has enough variety to keep you interested and hooked to the sound.