FrostClick.com » Punk

Jazz Funeral - self titled moody pop rock compilation

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

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.

Dolphins: Galaxy Train - fresh tracks crafted from timeless music

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

Download Album

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.

The Slizzies: Slizzies Going Steady - raw and unpolished punk rock

Valerie — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:01:44 +0000

Download Album

The Slizzies came about on a whim. When they first got together, only one of the members had actually played an instrument in their lifetime. Despite this complete handicap, that didn't stop the guys from agreeing to form a band.

The succeeding times weren't easy. From gathering for band practice, to actually learning to play for much of the group; it was certainly a joyride. In the end, the succeeding members actually managed to record a couple of original tracks in true diy fashion. These tracks were recorded from various live performances and rough studio sessions. Hence, don't expect awesome quality but do expect some great punk tracks coming your way.

There are 30 tracks to choose from in this record. As mentioned, most of these were done in shady quality so don't expect a polished, ready-for-the-presses album here. It's essentially true blue underground punk that's equipped with shouty vocals, fast drumming and loud guitars with repetitive lyrics.

According to one of the members, "the songs on this album were recorded with vocal microphones, and a lot of the time recorded as a single mono mixed track of each instrument, leaving little room for modifications. We didn't take any notes while we were doing this, and, more often than not, we had to repeat instrument takes days later since something got screwed up during the recording, which we didn't notice it until it came time to mix a song. We really didn't know what we were doing.

There's a certain rawness to the tracks that translates well to the diy punk mythos. If you enjoy an energy-filled dirty punk rock album once in awhile, you'll have a good time checking this one out. Take a listen and grab the download.

The Please & Thank Yous: Mind Yr P's & Q's - energetic power pop from four Chicago boys

Valerie — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:01:27 +0000

Download Album

These Chicago natives describe their journey on their Facebook as "a bunch of wimps started practicing in a basement. Some left, others joined, and a couple managed to remain constant. They are playing shows, touring, and recording their sophomore slump."

Well, those basement practices sure did pay off. The Please & Thank Yous sound is jolly punk pop, reminiscent of Goldfinger from the 90s and the many punk bands that never took themselves too seriously. It's this carefree and honesty that makes them interesting to listen to.

Mind Yr P's & Q's is the band's full length debut. It's a mix of both old and new songs; narrating the bands personal take on the various happenings of life.

This energetic band definitely have a penchant for creating soaring pop rock songs accompanied by chanting vocals, rolling drums and fast paced guitars. The group is currently based on Chicago; they were originally from Mundelein, IL and occasionally (according to their site) teethers between being a trio and a quartet.

Opening their little power pop trip with, Be A Tree, Che?; the song cheerfully opens Mind Yr P's & Q's. With a rolling intro and chorus singing, it's hard not to get into a happy mood when you hear this blaring. It's jet like pace induces serious head bobbing or toe tapping without much prompt.

Other tracks like Dear Allie and Speaking of the Devil, are typical songs that feature a mainstream sound. It sounds like something you would hear on some alternative pop rock radio station. Meanwhile, title track Mind Yr P's & Q's is surprisingly a subdued cut that gives listeners a quieter version of the boys.

Overall, the album isn't as polished as I want it to be and there are songs which I'd rather skip. However, there are some really fun tracks on here that are worth the listen. Check it out for yourself and grab the download if you dig it.

Fine Young Firecrackers: From The Ground Up - catchy and nostalgic pop punk

Valerie — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 15:01:23 +0000

Download Album

If you're in the mood for some fine music, take a listen to Fine Young Firecrackers. This new band from Liverpool is among the latest group of awesome bands that have come out of the city.

They bring in tons of energy, great beats and plenty of personality with their debut EP, From The Ground Up; making sure that you take notice and enjoy their sound.

Their music is reminiscent of various feel-good punk pop acts that you put on if you just want some good, uncomplicated and enjoyable music to keep you company throughout your day.

The EP starts off with the anthemic, Sound of Moving On. It's one of those tracks that seem like perfect company when you were in your teens, struggling to make sense of your life. Equipped with a catchy beat, charming vocals (well, typical of what you'd hear in feel-good rock like this) as well as great lyrics; the song is a good candidate for your most-played songs list.

It's followed by another upbeat number, We Grew Up Listening to Drive-Thru Bands. Although the title is a bit cheeky, it also rings true of the band's sound, which borrows from various pop punk bands like the Ataris and New Found Glory. It seems like part of the heydays of pop punk when both the lyrics and the beat actually mattered. It's one of my favorites in this mini record.

The remaining tracks Wrong Side of Town and Landslide, continue with the energy from the previous songs. Churning out glorious drumming, chanty vocals and very catchy rhythms.

If you lived through those pop punk phase, then this EP will no doubt be nostalgic. It's a bit short but each track has its charm. There's nothing groundbreaking about it though, but as a record you can listen to without much fuss; this one works great. Grab the download over at their BandCamp. This one's absolutely free.

Born Without Bones: Say Hello - energetic pop punk rock

Valerie — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:01:23 +0000

Download Album

Born Without Bones is a laid back indie power pop band that you'll find hanging around Milford, MA. Say Hello is the first album for the band and it's a compilation that pretty much expands on the power pop/emo rock phase that most bands seemed to be stuck in for awhile.

The album features 12 tracks that run the gamut of punk, acoustic pop, and a bit of indie rock. I'm gonna put it out there that if you dislike power pop or anthemic highschool emo rock, then you best stay away. But if you live for this stuff, keep reading and you just might find a gem in this record.

The band is composed of Scott Ayotte (Vocals, Guitar), Jim Creighton (Bass) and Patrick Murphy (Drums) with Say Hello being only about a year old. It was recorded back in July 2010 at Pin Up Recording in Lancaster, PA.

It kickstarts everything with it's title track; an upbeat, pop punk song that you can easily imagine playing over local radio stations. The track beams with rolling drums accompanied by heavy guitars and typical lyrics about relationships. It nicely starts off the album, setting up a good expectation for the upcoming songs.

Meanwhile, Out of Step and Falling Asleep, follow through on the energy and help to form the best part of the record. These first three songs definitely come with charm, typical of most emo pop punk tracks. Both instrument work and vocals are done really well plus the songs suit their style more. Certain cuts like You, on the other hand, showcase the band's quiet side with a melodic piano ballad. Although I much prefer them to be loud and rocking out than taming it down, the song isn't that bad.

Overall, the record is a typical, fun power pop/punk album that most people won't have trouble enjoying. The album is a nice mix and most of the songs are pretty tight with catchy beats that stay on for a long while. As mentioned, I favor that they stay on the louder side of things than mellowing out, but they do show good versatility with the more subdued songs. Take a listen.

Punk's Undead - Volume 1 from Sematary Records

Valerie — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:01:54 +0000

Download Album

Punk is not dead! For the many punk lovers out there, Punk's Undead Volume 1 might just be the album you've been looking for. This 28 track compilation features great tracks from various punk rockers in the Chicago area and neighboring cities.

Released under Illinois indie netlabel, Sematary Records, the compilation is one big punk fest featuring songs that are energetic and quite raw in places. Described as the record label from the grave, Punk's Undead - Volume 1 is definitely an interesting compilation fit for any true blue punk rocker.

Opening with Roberta Sparrow, these hardcore punk rockers arose from the remnants of Vice Dolls. The group blasts through the compilation with Poison the Air We Breathe. This short but highly energetic track bounces everywhere and definitely gives you an idea how the rest of the album will be.

Although much of it is loud, fast and brash, the entire album isn't strictly punk rock. Occasionally you'll encounter a progressive death metal track like Sinister Tongues from Scavenger; a punk power pop song like Relocator from The Knockdown; and several female led punk numbers, particularly from The Burminators and The Regulars.

Punk's Undead Volume 1 is filled with quite a few impressive punk tracks to enjoy. Although you might find some of them a little unpolished, there's no denying that the punk aesthetic is alive and kicking. Take a listen and grab the download.

Various Artists: A People's History of Bombed Out Records - loud punk rock compilation

Valerie — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 15:01:08 +0000

Download Album

A People's History of Bombed Out Records might seem like a mouthful but it's a fitting one as it chronicles the long and very diverse history of indie netlabel Bombed Out Records.

The album puts together some of the best tracks released from their fences; making it an exciting fusion of rock, punk and indie that'll give listeners an idea what the label has to offer.

All of the bands here have, at one time or another, been considered a band from Bombed Out. Some of them continue on while others have said their farewells.

Bombed Out Records is a non-profit indie netlabel from Leeds, UK. They mostly cater to punk rock bands and have been around since the late 90s. In their 13 years in the industry, they've catered and worked with bands from both in and out of the UK. As mentioned, most of these bands are now defunct although certain members are now part of other bands, and some of them are still on the label.

Opening loud and clear with Zapiain's Cotton Wool; the song introduces listeners to the type of sound they can expect throughout the compilation. Zapiain is a three-piece from West Yorkshire. They're known for creating melodic punk tracks; brimming with energy and angst yet still accompanied by a catchy beat.

A few of the other tracks lean more towards an indie-post-punk feel. Among my favorites from this bunch include Saturday's Kids with The Old Comedians as well as Dugong's Silver & Gold. The last track, a mellow acoustic punk number from Adam Jones, is a nice little capper too.

The album is a good and easy way to get acquainted with the indie punk rock scene in the UK and how it has evolved over the years. Some of these bands you might even want to track down and get their respective records since there are good songs on here. Take a listen for yourself and see which ones hit the mark.

Captain Stu: Free Music EP - upbeat, highly addicting blend of ska, funk, and punk

Natalie — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:01:50 +0000

Download Album

Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Captian Stu has been performing throughout the region ever since 2003. The five piece band brings us some of the most upbeat sounds I heard in a while; and with the unique and highly addicting blend of ska, funk, punk, and just a touch of fresh African flavor, their music will surely bring back all the wonderful days of summer that quickly got away.

So go ahead and get yourself a little bit of sunshine infused beats of the Free Music EP. And yes, just as the title suggests it is yours to enjoy entirely free of charge.

What started as coming together of six "pimpled teenagers" and a performance in front of a small and very much drunken birthday party crowd became a journey filled with several mind blowing records, music videos, a national tour, second place in Virgin Mobile's national "Road to TV" competition, sharing the stage with some of the most known bands such as Maroon 5 and One Republic; and finally after a number of additional concerts a great release of the Free Music EP "donning stupid furry costumes and drinking volumes of beer to keep things running in traditional Captain Stu style."

Free Music EP by Captain Stu

It's hard to pin point the favorite track on the album filled top to bottom with such a unique and fun sounds. In fact all of the five songs bring miles of energy that is hard to find anywhere these days; an energy that should not be missed. It's quirky lyrics will make you sing along all day, and it's fun loving harmonies will make you feel like vacation is just around the corner. Are you ready to party yet? Hit play and enjoy!

In the words of the band:

We have a bright and busy future ahead of us. A future teeming with big crowds, bigger music, epic tours, savage parties, sponsorships, investments, retirements and inevitably, funerals. We would love it, though, if you’d be smart enough to hop onboard with us before the inevitable end, and be a part of – or at least a witness to – the emergent Captain Stu phenomenon. We would never dream of disappointing you. Of course not. We are Captain Stu.

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

The Upstairs: Ku Nobatkan Jadi Fantasi EP - cool compilation from Indonesian new wave rockers

Valerie — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:01:40 +0000

Download Album

Music is universal. Sometimes you don't need to understand or know a language just to appreciate a song. Take the Indonesian band The Upstairs' debut EP, Ku Nobatkan Jadi Fantasi; just one listen and you'll adore the hipster new wave album even if you have no clue what they're singing about.

Mixing punk, dance, new wave and plenty of fun, the band released the record in celebration of Jakarta's Independence Day. It served as a present to their fans especially the ones that have been by the band's side since they first started.

This album is released under Yes No Wave record and is available for free download under a Creative Commons license.

Ku Nobatkan Jadi Fantasi EP comes with 6 tracks, most of which were previously released and just one new song included. Compared to most of the other artists from the Yes No Wave label, The Upstairs feature a more mainstream sound. However, this doesn't mean their sound is generic.

From the title track and opening single, Ku Nobatkan Jadi Fantasi, you can tell that this band are heavy on the hipster new wave beat. Their sound is filled with energy. Rolling drums, jangly guitars and a great mix of vocals combine to create a fun-filled catchy track. Dansa Akhir Pekan is an interesting cut that would feel quite comfortable playing in an 80s radio station. The last two cuts; Terekam and Lompat are both live tracks. The first being an electronic synth infused danceable cut while the latter is an acoustic set from the five piece band.

If you're looking to broaden your musical horizon, then go ahead and give this one a go. It's worth checking out and listening to.

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