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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.

Nick Rivera: Happy Song is a Happy Song - gorgeous and flowing electro folk

Valerie — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:01:56 +0000

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Have a sweet spot for folk electronica music? Happy Song is a Happy Song by Nick Rivera is a compilation you should check out.

The man behind this musical project is Michele Sarti, an Italian singer/songwriter who has a gift for transforming various instruments and sounds into a whole menagerie of quiet beauty. His sound captures elusive and fleeting moments so perfectly that it's hard not to fall for it.

After years spent playing drums for a number of rock bands, Michele eventually sought more experimental and free form sounds. This led to rediscovering instruments like the French horn and exploring a more meditative, free-folk form of sound.

From a mix of acoustic sounds, the French Horn and spacey, synth sounds here and there; opening single Renee Luise starts the mini EP in the best possible way. It immediately immerses the listener in the weird but surprisingly relaxing sound of Nick Rivera. Despite the mish-mash of instruments, you still get a melodic and hypnotic set that's heightened by the artists' moody vocal work.

It's followed by title track, Happy Song is a Happy Song, which features the more folkish acoustic side of the singer. Again, the musician's capacity to create a concrete image and capture the essence of the tracks makes his sound even more worthy of a listen. Meanwhile, Butter in My Head is a bit more melodramatic with a touch of quirkiness. The vocals lends itself well to the song, adding another layer of interest to the already lush landscape of instruments.

The album is finished off with Horn Y Orgy, an instrumental piece that highlights the artists' love for the French Horn. It's a lovely track that caps the record in a fresh way.

With just four cuts, the EP is quite short. And chances are after you listen to it, you'll want to listen to more from Nick Rivera. Expect the sound to be quite different. There's a lot going on in each song but there's also a coherence and unity to the sound. Overall, this is a great EP to have especially for those looking for a new acoustic, free folk artist to love.

Questo opera è distribuito con licenza Creative Commons Attribuzione - Non commerciale - Non opere derivate 2.5 Italia.

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.

Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler (Traveler's Diary): The Traveler and The King

Valerie — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:01:28 +0000

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Don't be fooled by the long and complicated looking name, The Traveler and The King is actually a pretty lovely record for many jazz alternative folk lovers out there.

Originally calling themselves, Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler, the band now goes by the easier to pronounce name, Traveler's Diary.

This is a debut record for the band. It was released in BandCamp on December 2010 and features a whole range of sounds. You can expect some acoustic percussions, a slight touch of prog, jazz and even folk sprinkled on here.

Title track, The Traveler and The King kick things off. The song has a lounge feel while at the same time adding a hint of alternative rock. Although it's not as catchy as I hoped, it still captures the listeners attention and opens the album nicely.

Showcasing their dynamic capacity, the band follows it off with a more mellow track, Strangers. The song has a nice world music feel to it and incorporates odd bits of sound here and there. The third cut, Lies on the Run begins as an instrumental piece filled with trippy Flamenco style guitar playing. It then elaborates into a midtempo vocals infused cut. Perhaps my favorite off the album, Fools is a jazzy single that has lovely vocals and a sweet lounge club sound.

Overall, the album is worth having. There's good variety to be found here especially if you like to explore different sounds.

The Traveler's Diary is made up of trio The city musician - vocals/ guitar/piano/compositions; Daniel Vargas - double bass and Fiete Wachholtz - drums, percussion. Download the album and enjoy.

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.

Wise Children: Absence & Reunion EP - beautifully laced indie acoustic folk

Valerie — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:01:10 +0000

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If you have a soft spot for quiet, acoustic indie folk, it'll be hard to pass up on Wise Children's second release, Absence & Reunion EP. It's about a year old but definitely worth checking out especially for fans of songs that exude a folkish, indie vibe.

Wise Children is actually a one-man band led by Robin Warren-Adamson. Hailing from the South Coast of England; he plays dreamy, melodic indie folk that's reminiscent of Iron & Wine and a slightly less somber, Damien Rice.

Absence & Reunion come equipped with five full songs and a mini instrumental opener. Officially starting with the acoustic number, Absence. The song begins with mellow acoustic guitars coupled by Robin's expressive and soothing voice. It's a track that warmly embraces listeners, drawing them into the singer's personal world. There's also a nice transition right in the middle from a slow pace to a slightly upbeat one.

It's followed by Artichoke, which sees the happy and glee-filled side of the singer. One admirable thing with Wise Children is the artists' capacity to change things up. From quiet indie to energy laced numbers, he pulls it off nicely. He doesn't just do this from one song to another but the artist expertly switches tempo mid-song. Take a listen to Keep Quiet and you'll understand.

Let Me Get Under Your Skin, features heartfelt lyrics that exude a touch of intimacy while final track, You Are a Poem, is another instrumental that hauls in a whole range of emotion thanks to its somber piano work.

Overall, Absence & Reunion, makes for a relaxing listen. At times I do wish it was longer since it's hard not to fall for Robin's voice; nevertheless, it is a comfortable and easily likable album. As mentioned, those who love indie folk music will consider this artist a great find. Let's hope he'll come out with a full debut soon. For the meantime, make sure to check this and download it.

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.

Night Reports: You're All Out - moody and somber indie rock

Valerie — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:01:26 +0000

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Another band that you wouldn't think is composed of only two people at the helm; Night Reports create beautiful indie rock music with a touch of soul.

Long time friends, Derrick Brown and Beau Jennings, have both collaborated in various projects before. However, they've never tackled anything similar to Night Reports. Although the collaboration started out slowly, with both of them passing MP3s and recorded files via email and voice message; they eventually compiled what has become You're All Out.

The record is a concept album of sorts, as it revolves around an athlete who is down in the dumps and living (and reliving) his life in his glory days.

You're All Out is one of those records you can pop into your player if you're feeling a little moody and want the perfect music to keep you company. It's somber and a bit melancholic yet filled with beautiful stories that can serve as your lullaby.

Opener, Are You On My Team? is a solemn little cut that comes with sad vocals and wonderful piano work. It's one of the most likable tracks on the record and after hearing it once, you'd be looking forward to hearing it again once you finish the entire album. French Kicks (World Music is the Real Criminal) changes pace and adds a slightly upbeat tempo to the mix. The song is filled with a catchy chorus, occasional handclaps and an overall happier atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Hang On Me Darlin' features a collaboration with songstress Samantha Crain and her hypnotic, quirky vocals. The song is a 3 minute stunner that gently weaves between a piano ballad to an indie melancholic love song. You Were My Pete Rose is a haunting love song that features Derrick's expressive vocals cooing and silently urging his "sweetness" to return to him.

Overall, if you love the likes of Damien Rice, then you'll have plenty of lovin' for this record. It's an album that masterfully combines hauntingly melodic folk music with that of slightly uptempo indie rock. Definitely makes a great balance. Check it out!