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The Stalactites: Dark Matters - ambient progressive rock

Valerie — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:01:58 +0000

If you're looking to get your progressive rock fix, The Stalactites' Dark Matters could help you in this department. Made up of Johnny B. (guitar), Rudy Hellio (piano, guitar, programming), and Sophie Hebbelynck (violin), The Stalactites is actually a virtual band; making use of the internet and sending each other recorded files from miles away.

Dark Matters is the second compilation for the group. It was released back in August 2011. Don't expect crazy progressive riffs in here though, the album dwells more on the atmospheric/ambient side, combining hazy guitars with moody violin work and great programming.

As mentioned, the guys are essentially a virtual band; recording their own parts from different places and combining these into one cohesive track for the album. So far, the formula is proving a success. Dark Matters exudes this otherwordly vibe that's both soothing and relaxing.

From the opening track, Kryptonited, you can sort of guess that you're in for one moody, spacey trip. The song is a bit somber but it does set the mood perfectly for the rest of the compilation. Occasionally, heavier guitar riffs do come into play such as in SOL and Paranoid Bones, but there are also melodic piano work in tracks like Nova. In the end, you get this ethereal rockish sound from the record which is easily likable, even if you're not a complete prog rocker.

Dark Matters is perfect for anybody who has a taste for experimental music. Prog isnt' exactly everybody's cup of tea but for those who love it, this one should be an easy winner. Take a listen.

Tap: Im Different - great chill-out hip hop and R&B compilation

Valerie — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 14:01:55 +0000

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The Great Society Media Group is a company that serves as a "promotional vehicle for local record labels in NC." CEO & Founder, Tap (Terry Perry) makes his mark by showcasing his unique blend of sound by releasing this latest effort.

Combining a variety of genres, Im Different is an interesting mix of sounds and beats. On one part it's classified as typical hip hop and r&b while on the other, you'll find electronic, acoustic and even jazz influences surrounding the record.

Tap is no newbie on the block. He's a prolific producer and rapper who has contributed to tracks/albums from artists like Asher Roth, Juelz Santanas Ripstar, Chulo and Ya Favorite Lady to name a few.

Im Different is the latest offering from the artist following a series of compilation records and singles released since 2010. Featuring a general laid-back feel; the album is contemplative and moody in places but also includes lovely upbeat sounds every now and then. When you listen, you'll get tracks like Keep Rising ft. Koury Thompson, which is a beautiful mellow R&B single that combines gorgeous lyrics with soulful singing. Meanwhile, several standout tracks include Hair Down, Sublime ft. Deniro, Transition and the bonus cut, Tizzy Bossa Nova.

If you're looking for some chill music that's appropriate for winding down after a hectic day, this is a nice compilation to check out. Tap can easily create smooth tracks that's perfect for relaxing. From electronica, a touch of rock, and R & B; the artist covers the bases and ensures that listeners have a good time while on the ride. Grab the download.

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

Jazz Funeral - self titled moody pop rock compilation

Valerie — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 14:01:52 +0000

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Lifting their name from a term used in traditional New Orleans funerals where music is played, Jazz Funeral is a pop rock band that entertains as much as they mystify.

Well, to be exact, Jazz Funeral is simply singer-songwriter, self-proclaimed philosopher and avid drinker, Paul Adler.

Essentially rock with a sometimes gritty pop punk (even emo) sound, the album is a nice introduction to the singer's sound. This is a debut compilation for the singer and it seems like much of his philosophy and lifestyle is embedded in the tracks.

The songs in this album are a product of several years of the singer's life. Some of the songs were written as far back as 2008-2009 while the entire record was recorded after Paul graduated from college. It was then released last year on March 2011.

The artist is quoted in an interview with Absolutepunk, stating: "I wrote all the songs myself; I had somewhat of a grand vision for the record and I wanted to put everything I had into it. I wrote ten pages of production notes before I even got into the studio, so I knew exactly what I wanted and I really just wanted it to be me, to have who I am as a person come across in album-form."

Indeed, he seems to have achieved his vision for the record. The tracks in the album range from haunting, Hymn to the melodramatic and emotional single, Coping. It's not all doom and gloom though. Rosary Beads is an upbeat pop punk track that can be mistaken for something that belongs under emo punk group, Taking Back Sunday's roster, only a tad more whiny.

Regardless if you like pop rock or emo punk, you'll probably have fun with this. Once you get past the trippy, sometimes overly emotional singing, you'll easily discover well-written and recorded cuts. Go ahead and grab the download. You'll find this one for free over at BandCamp.

Republic of Lights: Go Rococo - energetic indie new wave

Valerie — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:01:24 +0000

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After receiving a huge amount of praise and positive reviews for their album as well as live performances, Republic of Light seems to have had a good start on their musical journey.

These Chicago natives created quite a bit of noise in the indie music world with their album Go Rococo. The crew is composed of Alan on vocals, Brian on guitars, Greg on keyboards and Rosie on guitars.

Combining a flurry of indie pop, new wave, great lyrics and tons of catchy rhythm; the band is easily likable while the record is a great go-to album if you want something to keep your energy up and bouncing.

I'm not going to deny that I enjoyed the album on first listen. There's a fun and exciting energy that emanates from each track. Even though much of it sounds like a mix of new wave with the melodramatic indie pop of Spoon, it's pretty hard to resist them and keep yourself from enjoying the record.

Kicking things off is title track, Go Rococo. It's actually the shortest cut on the album at only 2 minutes. It combines keyboards, hipster style vocals and some catchy beat. The album then transitions into a full blown dance, hipster track, Lotus. With a mix of guitars and steady beat, you'll find yourself toe tapping to this one. Meanwhile, 22centstamp is a fun lovin' cut that extends with great lyrics and a jaunty rhythm. Alan's vocal work is quite something.

Go Rococo is a great record to grab. Although the band's sound quality isn't as polished yet, they're pretty close. They have all the right elements in place; given a bit more time to evolve, they're sure to blow listeners even more with their sound.

You can grab the download over at BandCamp. And if the band is playing near your area, go ahead and see them. I hear they're mindblowing live. Enjoy!

Spanish Prisoners: Gold Fools- eclectic dream pop tracks

Mona — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:01:33 +0000

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Spanish Prisoners' latest release Gold Fools will bind your ears in a psychedelic magic spell.

Hailing from Brooklyn, the quartet is composed of Leo Maymind, Amberly Hungerford, Mike DiSanto and James Higgs. They met in the winter of 2009 and started to create great music together.

Two years in the making, their LP Gold Fools offers nine dream pop tracks that'll surely take you on a kaleidoscopic ride.

Boasting with all the sonically pleasant fixings, the band's love for contemporary melodies and rich vibes has consistently been at the center of this collection.

Los Angeles Guitar Dream draws dreamy electric guitar tunes with a fingertip. With an almost ghostly vocal, this opening track is a perfect soundtrack for an indie movie.

Rich Blood invites a degree of captivating lucidness. Its well-written verses paints vivid images of the dark and messy side of wealthy people and how they are not contended with all the luxuries they have.

Slithering like a deceitful snake, Lipstick Under the Table talks about pretentions and lies. This track will give a steady does of sexiness with its slow but catchy rhythm and sultry vibe.

The album closes up with Dowtown Chicago —a reflection of the eroded self, questioning what he has become. I must commend the band's quality of writing, they play in the middle of being poetic yet still accessible to the listeners.

Gold Fools marks Spanish Prisoners' spot on the music scene. This album shows great visual and musical aesthetic that will vibrantly fill up the senses.

Julio y Agosto - charming self-titled Spanish acoustic folk

Valerie — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:01:25 +0000

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One of my favorite BandCamp finds as of late, Julio y Agosto, is a quaint Spanish group who create lovely acoustic folk music. They first started back in 2006, creating beautiful and soothing music that makes you think of woodland forests or some faraway land where fairies and all sorts of wonderful creatures exist.

This self-titled record was released last October 2011 and it definitely has the capacity to mesmerize audiences with its simple yet melodic cuts. They combine quirkiness and humor in their songs, which are accompanied by a host of instruments like the violin, trombone, bass, guitars, percussions and voice.

This five piece crew started off as a trio, with Santi, Migue and Marce. Later on, Guido on violin and Anaclara on flute joined in on the fun. Julio y Agosto is definitely a band that I would recommend if you love your acoustic folk. Regardless of whether you understand the language or not, their sound and instruments alone is enchanting enough.

Some of my favorite compositions out of the record include the quirky track, Heracio Enriquez, which has this hokey vibe that makes me think of western shows or old school silent films. Another one of my favorites is the quiet acoustic single, Espejo or mirror in English. The lovely mix of violins, beautiful guitars and the harmonic vocal work definitely works for me.

Overall, if you have a soft spot for acoustic folk music with a little quirkiness to it, then you should be listening to this. Even though I can only understand phrases and words from the lyrics, that didn't stop me from loving the record. Worth checking out if you ask me. The album is available as a free download over at the band's BandCamp page.

Here's their first music video titled "Caja Ninja" released December 15th of 2011 on Vimeo.

Tussie-Mussie: From Rough to Calm Seas - feel good indie surfer rock

Valerie — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:01:25 +0000

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Claiming to write songs about girls, this indie pop group only lists "Jon" (Jon Torres) as its member. I guess good music doesn't really require much names as the band seems to have a knack for creating catchy indie folk pop cuts.

From Rough to Calm Seas is the artists' latest effort. It's a short 4-track EP that's filled with pop music with a hint of surfer sound.

Weezer, Pavement and The Beach Boys are some of the bands that have influenced their sound. Indeed, you'll hear this feel-good, sometimes quirky sound that most of the bands mentioned above are known for.

The EP was released last December 2011 over at BandCamp. This short compilation opens up with a 4 minute single titled, Buggin' You. Combining a nice Pavement-like surfer sound, the song sandwiches dirty guitars with a catchy melody. Perfect for a morning trip down the beach in sunny California weather.

It's followed by Think Happy Thoughts, which resounds with handclaps and some harmonic Beach-Boys singing. Meanwhile, third track, Love is Patient, Love is Kind, continues with the melodic number. It's simple but relatively easy to adore. You can put it on and have it serenade you to sleep. On the other hand, Old Photographs, easily caps the album.

Tussie-Mussie is a Jacksonville, Florida band that records their sound using Garageband. You can grab a copy of this EP for free over at BandCamp and while you're at it, also check out their other releases and enjoy.

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.

Literature: Arab Spring - edgy power pop tunes

Mona — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 14:01:36 +0000

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Slowly but surely, Literature blooms a garden full of good music in their new release entitled Arab Spring.

Kevin Adickes, Nathaniel Gardaci, Seth Whaland and Mike Yaklin, better known as Literature have crafted ten power pop tracks that appeals to the senses. It was recorded during the summer of 2011 and was released on new year's day of this year.

14 Seconds opens up with an uplifting vibe. It mixes the right amount of guitar strings and melodies making this the perfect companion for a long trip to work or school.
With a pure pop sensibility, Lily follows up with upbeat drum beats. This track sheds off a 90's vibe, the only difference is its faster rhythm.

The title track Arab Spring pops in the middle of the album. A personal favorite, I loved how the instrumentation transports you to earlier days of cassette tapes and headbangs.

With a similar vibe like that of the previous tracks, O.J. starts with thick bass guitars slowly building into a panoramic soundscape.

I Am Right Here closes the album with a healthy dose of happiness. This track seals the whole set, establishing the band's own brand of music. What I like about Literature is the tremendous amount of energy and free-spirit which are reflected into their songs.

Arab Spring is perfect for those seeking the right amount of fresh beat to start the day.

Martina Matwiejczuk: Extended Play

Valerie — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:01:39 +0000

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You won't find much about Martina Matwiejczuk online. Save for the few links on her Facebook Page, there's hardly any info about the singer herself.

Even though she remains a mysterious figure in the music scene, her sound might just pluck her out of this obscurity soon enough.

This Polish singer has a knack for creating catchy pop and R&B laced tracks that seems destined to receive good airplay. Her EP, Extended Play is a first for her. It comes with 5 feel-good cuts ready to make you a convert to her music.

Starting her short but gorgeous EP with a single that shows off her strong vocals, Give Me a Reason is essentially a smooth pop song that you can easily chill with. Within minutes of the track, it becomes apparent that Martina is an artist that has the capacity to command a listen. The song is catchy. Even though it is a bit typical, it's this same familiarity that makes it a great cut to enjoy.

Second track, Kilimanjaro is an upbeat single that serves as a nice club dance track. It has the right amount of groove that you can pop on for house parties or if you want something to perk up your mood. It's also easy to imagine this one playing over the radio. Martina takes a slower pace with Searcher, showcasing that she can belt R&B infused tracks if she wants to. This one cut sounds like it belongs to a Beyonce album. Vocals are great and the replay value of the single is quite high. Meanwhile, Black is White, ends the album the same way it opens it; with a single that will stay stuck in your head after just a listen or two.

Extended Play might be a simple EP that has plays on the same formula of soulful dance pop with a hint of R&B, but it's still a record worth grabbing if you ask me. Martina Matwiejczuk has a certain charm while she sings her songs. It's hard not to fall for it and have her music on repeat for the rest of the day.