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Existance - Miles Apart EP A free release from Cut

Valerie — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:01:47 +0000

Greeting 2012 with a free release, Cut Music is offering a brand new mini EP. Injecting a slightly new feel compared to their usual releases, Miles Apart EP from Existance, slightly exudes a more R&B electronic dubstep feel. This short 3-track compilation features smooth rhythms and hypnotic vocal samples.

Although it's short, the tracks in the record are easily likable, thanks to skillful mixing and just a knack for creating some fine, easy-listening beats.

From the first single, Miles Apart; listeners are treated to a smooth mix of sounds. Like a big jigsaw puzzle finding the right pieces, each beat, vocal and synth fit comfortably against each other. It's hard not to enjoy the track even if you might not consider yourself a big electro dubstep fan.

Meanwhile, Uninhabited is a bit closer to tracks previously featured under Cut. The song is a bit dark with an eerie 'walking-down-a-dark-alleyway' vibe. On the other hand, you'll find the last song, Pelennor Fields, a bit more melodic with moody drums, bass and pianos peppering the background.

Each of the three songs have a completely different feel to them but they all resonate with an overall equation; that is a good and catchy beat. You can grab the download over at BandCamp or head over to the Cut Music website. Give this a listen.

Magentaa: Pulse - lush eclectic electronica

Valerie — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:01:19 +0000

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One of the many faces representing underground electronica from Munich, Germany; Magentaa releases his latest record, Pulse. This 7-track compilation carefully fuses different elements to create a cohesive album guaranteed to make it the perfect go-to record for midnight parties or quiet lounging at your apartment.

There's not much personal info about the artist online, except that he has released several titles and compilations prior to this one. Most of his songs are an eclectic mix of sounds; with drum machines, electronic pianos, voice and field recordings making an appearance. It's this unusual combination that's making his electronic sonatas quite interesting to listen to.

Pulse opens up with Houche, one of the longest tracks in the record. It runs for about 8 minutes and fills in listeners with what is essentially a hodge podge of synths, electronic, overly auto-tuned sounding vocals and a quirky drum beats. Even though it's a bit long, the sound is pretty consistent and doesn't make you feel like you're swimming under a senseless mix of sound.

On the other hand, tracks like Hazie and Tubb, delve deeper into the dark atmosphere, coating it with generous psychedelic vibes and even a slight touch of hip-hop.

According to the artist, Pulse is "about bits & pieces. Single parts, repeatedly demixed, modulated, filtered, chopped and newly formed into structures. It's music, that functions like a multiple repainted picture. To listen to makes you an adept. The room between abstract sound and concrete noise is measured here. When tones become noise, images will be available, that aren't completely medially tied yet."

Indeed, Magentaa creates a sound that is both mystical and relaxing. Pretty much, you could play this record in the background to whatever it is you're doing and just enjoy it. The album is currently available as a free download. Take a listen.

Worst by Magentaa

Thefft: The Primer EP - mesmerizing low-tempo dancefloor electronica

Valerie — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:01:30 +0000

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The newest release from ambient electronic netlabel, Cut Records, is from Thefft. It seems the artist has been brewing underground for awhile and now he's ready to show off his skills with his EP, The Primer.

Much of the hype is warranted though as the album skillfully intertwines beats, bass and synths to create a delightful fusion fit for some good old dancing in a bar or club.

The man behind all the glorious beats is Jack Robertson aka. Thefft. Although he's not a full newcomer, he's definitely making the rounds this time and causing a stir. Born in London, he's currently based there ~~in New York~~ and hangs out in New York whenever he gets a break, creating and producing sonic tracks that are worthy of a listen.

Opening with No Match for She, the song is a great sample of what you can expect from the artists' sound. It's filled with a catchy rhythm and various bits and bobs that make it refreshing to listen to. Whether you play it in a jam packed dancefloor or simply listen to it over your headphones, you get this distinct sound that's easy to like.

It's followed by Gammy Crazy, an eclectic mix of synths and samples topped with a good bass beat. The short 3-track EP is then finished off by Stares, which starts off with various clicks before slowly transforming into a sculpture of sound.

Overall, it's one short record to check out. Thefft definitely has a knack for creating a fresh spin on traditional electronic beats; making you want to check out more of his work. You can grab most of his works right over at his BandCamp page.

Nueva Noventa: Colors - lush indie electronic rock

Valerie — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 15:01:03 +0000

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A product of years of work and countless rehearsals; Colors by Nueva Noventa contains a lushness that only time could have filled and created.

Nueva Noventa is a four piece indie rock crew from Santiago, Chile. Their sound focuses on indie pop rock but also introduces elements of electronica once in awhile.

There's nothing much out there about the band or the members themselves. It seems they're among the few bands who like to let their sound do all the talking instead. Frankly, this works just fine as their music is capable of communicating and reaching out to its audience.

Starting somber and slow with Young Winters, you can almost expect the band to be an electronic, ambient group after listening to this one. The track is purely instrumental and filled with soaring guitars, twinkly piano work and epic swells. It's this capacity to capture emotion in an instrumental track that really defines the band for me.

Other tracks like, Between Raindrops and Connections, sees the band embrace their full-on indie rock persona. This time around they incorporate vocals to a nice mix of alternative rockish guitars and some melodic sound. Meanwhile, title track Colors, is a beautiful landscape of sound that showcases acoustic guitars along with some emotional singing.

Even though there are times when the singing comes off as a bit too whiny, the underlying music manages to make up for it. The band has a knack for creating this lush swirl of sounds that you can easily get lost in if you want to. Give the album a listen.

Vernon Lenoir: The Rites of Sausage - eclectic party mix

Valerie — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:01:13 +0000

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For times when all you need is a funky and quirky party album, pop over Vernon Lenoir's The Rites of Sausage and you should be good to go. This crazy party album mixes loud beats, 8-bit pixel goodness and a dose of remade pop culture.

The super talented composer/sampling-genius has released several compilations from various netlabels like UpItUp, VM Recordings, and Ego Twister. This time around, he ventures over to Chinstrap Records and unloads his genius samples via The Rites of Sausage.

From the Macarena to Inspector Gadget, the record is a sure mix of funky goodness.

Even though you're not exactly big on party music, this is one of those records you'd love to have playing at some point in your downtime. The Rites of Sausage is essentially a world born from illusion. It's a world where everyone has gone bonkers and only sees sausages and experiences visions from these same sausages.

Opening track like Zwiebelkuchen, start off the party with a blast. Juxtaposing deep beats with a cartoony sound that makes you wonder what exactly you're listening to. Certain songs like Dwelling, exude a more laid-back vibe; giving listeners a very short breather in between the chaos of the rest of the cuts. Some of my other favorite picks include Augustus featuring Satanicporncultshop and Another Glass of Melonade. Of course, it's hard to resist Makar and its Macarena beat.

The album is definitely eclectic and something you can enjoy if you're looking for some fun. Every song is filled with rich and cleverly done samples that's interesting and worth checking out. You can grab the download over at Free Music Archive. This is worth it.

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Great Skies: [shhht_12] - awesome downbeat 4-track compilation

Valerie — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:01:49 +0000

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If you stumbled across Great Skies' Summer Moments EP here in Frostclick and enjoyed it, then you might have a blast with this latest release from the artist. [shhht_12] (yes, that's the title) is a 4-track compilation that's filled with great electronic ambient tracks masterfully crafted by London producer, Matthew Wells aka Great Skies.

This 20 year old has been crafting great ambient downtempo sounds fit for a relaxing little getaway. It's moody, atmospheric and definitely a great listen whether you're looking for a new artist to love or you just want something to serve as background for your moody afternoon.

Although there's nothing super spectacular about this compilation, it's the utter simplicity and familiarity it has that makes it quite endearing. Each track is filled with quiet and lush sounds, along with a sprinkling of synths, samples and occasional vocals.

The second track, Breath in the Air, is my favorite. The song is relaxing with just the right amount of beats and samples to keep everything intriguing. Different Paths, on the other hand, introduces a slight uptempo sound while the last track, The Ghosts Follow Us is perhaps the most moody piece in the EP. It is both haunting and enjoyable with the drum machine providing a solid beat.

Overall, this short compilation is likable. It won't break any records for originality but that's also part of its charm. It also proves that Great Skies is an artist worth keeping an eye on especially if you love your downbeat electronic beats. You can grab the download over at Silencedmusic.com or just hit the download link above. It's available for free.

[shhht_12] by great skies

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netBloc Vol. 34: The Whitewash - great new compilation from blocSonic

Valerie — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:01:03 +0000

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After a short hiatus, blocSonic is now back on track in releasing their latest addition to their Netbloc compilations, Netbloc 34: The Whitewash. As expected, the 14-track record is a goldmine of new sound. Featuring relatively new and unknown artists from all over the world playing different genres, the album is quite an enjoyable record worth raving about.

We've featured several of these compilations from the label right here on Frostclick. You can check them here and here. All of them are available as a free download and serve as a great way to discover new bands or new music in the CC licensed music world.

Like previous netBlocs, The Whitewash mixes together different genres of music and aims to give new bands a chance to shine with their unique sound. You get a helping of pop, electropop, punk, electronic jazz and even hip-hop in this mix. Most of the artists hail from various netlabels but there are a couple that are independently released.

The album starts off with a dance electropop single from Enough Records staple, The Easton Ellises. Yakuza Baby features lovely synth vocals and very catchy disco tune worth any club dancefloor. It's followed by the jazzy and sultry pop track from The Womb. They fill their track with spacey backgrounds and whispery vocals making you think of seedy rooms and alleyways.

The Whitewash switches gears by the middle portion and injects some hip hop lovin' from Frenic of Dusted Wax Kingdom netlabel and ILLUS and DJ Johnny Juice with their single, Ready Remix. Meanwhile, The Frankenstone from Yes No Wave label serve as the punk representatives for this compilation. Their sound is a heavy mix of guitars, fast drumming and shouty vocals characteristic of the punk ethos.

Overall, the record is a great piece to have. It's filled with all the goodness you've come to expect from netBloc compilations along with some really cool surprises along the way. Grab the download and take a listen.

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Telepathic Teddy Bear: Reactions - top notch electronic indie folk pop worth checking out

Valerie — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:01:16 +0000

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Reactions is one of those records you can put on in a cool house party and leave it playing for a good long time. It's filled with both fun and energetic dance beats as well as quiet electronic pop songs.

Telepathic Teddy Bear is actually the pet project of Juan Carlos Padilla; a Mexican singer-songwriter from Monterrey, Nuevo León but currently based in Boston. The artist has been active in the local Monterrey music scene for some time but it wasn't until late 2010 where he finally managed to release his first EP under the moniker.

Reactions is his first full length album. It's a wonderful mix of pop, electronica and indiepop meant for casual listening.

Ever since Reactions was released, it's garnered a heavy positive response from internet music lovers everywhere. This comes as no surprise once you listen to the record. Filled with textures, synths, glowing lo-fi sound along with hints of 80s style new wave and even piano filled soft pop songs; the album is catchy without even trying. It's not just the artist's melodies and beats that make the record fun to listen to. The quality of the recording and mixing is top notch as well, making it hard to believe that the album isn't topping the pop charts somewhere.

Right from the getgo, the album already impresses you with Leave It All. I'm not gonna lie, the first time I listened to it, I initially thought it was too "Cobra Starship" yet after two replays, it's officially stuck and has become one of my favorite tracks in the record. The synths, soft electronic hints and the low key vocals are perfect for injecting some fun into a lifeless party.

Certain tracks like My Body's a Question, This Is Love, and Every Time The Son Leaves obviously dabble with a more mellow electronic folk pop feel. Each of the tracks showcase the artists more quiet and reflective side. It also provides a nice and surprising balance to the rest of the cuts on the record.

The album is definitely a gem. If you're not into electronic indie pop then this might take a few listens (the most two) before the songs stay stuck and becomes a staple on your playlist.

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Horiso: He and other both creatures - great jazz electronic compilation to sink your teeth into

Valerie — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:01:44 +0000

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He and Other Both Creatures is a solid, electronic jazz compilation that's worth listening to. The man behind this captivating collection is Horiso; a Polish multi-instrumentalist, technician, composer, programmer and in some parts of the record, singer.

This 9-track album takes electronic influences, jazz, improv, voice and so many other elements together, mashed them around, to create a breathtaking record. There are certain tracks that make you feel like dancing while other tracks are more meant for a slow and relaxing evening with people you love. Released last September 2011, the album is available as a free download under a Creative Commons license.

When I first heard the vocals for opening track, Feeling Good, I immediately thought of Jeff Buckley. The song is a slow, jazzy track that's accentuated by Horiso's beautiful vocal work. It's one of the few songs with his voice on display which is a kind of a bummer since it's definitely a gem, however the rest of the tracks are really good in their own way.

Tracks like It Will Rain, Kaa and An Anden are more or less instrumental electronic affairs. They showcase the artists capabilities when it comes to his instruments and how he cleverly balances different sounds effortlessly. On the other hand, cuts like Remembring and 4 are melodic, acoustic songs brought to life by Horiso's heartfelt vocals.

He and Other Both Creatures is definitely an interesting compilation to listen to. It caters to several audiences by beautifully combining different genres into one amazing album.

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Aucan: Black Rainbow - Ambient Dubstep featured on FrostWire

Valerie — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:00:57 +0000

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Brewing on the underground European scene for some time now, Aucan are finally gearing up to make themselves heard. This trio has shared the stage with some of the several notable performers like Placebo, Tricky, Steve Aoki, Antipop, Dinosaur Jr. and so much more. They've even played more than 300 gigs in various venues all across Europe.

Mixing ambient dubstep with some generous helping of electronic triphop; Aucan is one of those bands that capture your attention from the moment you take a listen.

Black Rainbow is the third release from the group and features a more refined yet still very catchy hypnotic electronic dub.

Their previous releases include DNA EP (2010) which was a bit more darker compared to their first self-titled release. In Black Rainbow, the boys go deeper into electronica while infusing hip hop and trippy dub into the mix.

Opening track, Blurred (Extended Version) features the hauntingly sweet voiced singer, Angela Kinczly. As opening track, it can be a bit misleading for fans who expect the rest of the compilation to exude a Sneaker Pimps/Portishead electronic pop after hearing this first cut. The rest of the compilation is actually much heavier and lean more on ambient dub with a rock alternative edge. If anything, the first 2 or 3 songs are the closest you'll find electronic pop in the record, the rest is pure rocking, bass-thumping goodness.

Cuts like Storm and Embarque take you into a deeper, experimental route. These two songs also stand on opposite sides of the poles. Storm features heavy bass and a synth trippy beat while Embarque, is exclusively composed of melodic acoustic, low key stringed instruments. Both of the songs have their own feel and the clever mix of instruments, various bits as well as beats are quite easy to get lost in.

Although the entire album is a haven of pure triphop, electronica (even melodic) pop, it's the wonderful and dark corners of the record that seals the deal for me. Away! is among my favorite tracks. When I first heard it, I immediately thought of Asian Dub Foundation during their Fortress Europe rein, only to find out in the liner notes that they indeed have a former member of ADF, Spex MC, help them out with the cut.

Overall, this is one album that's definitely made its way to my favorites list this year. It has a little something to satisfy different music lovers' taste, from a pop, hip hop to pure electronica and dub; Black Rainbow is certainly a record that deserves attention. Take a listen.

Aucan - Black Rainbow [2011] by Aucan

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