Classical

(Bach, Chopin, Brahms)

Felipe Sarro: Bach

If classical is more your thing, you might want to grab this little gem from Felipe Sarro. The Brazilian pianist takes on the music of one of the most influential and well-known classical composers ever, Johann Sebastian Bach. He plays several of Bach's original works as well as several transcriptions of Bach's music done byRussian composer Alexander Ilyich Siloti. Every single piece was recorded and played by Sarro on piano; recreating, reliving and celebrating the sound of the revered German composer.

Kimiko Ishizaka: The Open Goldberg Variations

Occasionally, it's good to get away from all the trappings of pop and modern music to indulge yourself in some good old classical tunes. Luckily, there's not a shortage of talented musicians and instrumentalist willing to take on the work of the masters. Kimiko Ishizaka is breathing a new life to some of Bach's greatest work in this great instrumental compilation. The Goldberg Variations is a Kickstarter funded work, which aims to record and recapture the Bach's famous 1741 composition. The album is produced by Anne-Marie Sylvestre and licensed under a Creative Commons License.

Jared C. Balogh: Rhythms of Life

Get in touch with your senses as Jared C. Balogh’s Rhytms of Life take you on a transcendent journey of emotions and life experiences. Jared C. Balogh is a musician/composer from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He’s also a member of the American Composers Forum. He had released numerous albums and have already collaborated with artists like Lezet, Hal McGee, Kawol and The Merricks, to name a few.

Kevin Burdick: In Your Cocoon

American singer/songwriter and pianist, Kevin Burdick creates contemporary piano rock ballads that's both soothing and relaxing. Currently based in Utah, the singer has had 5 releases under his name. Among his albums is this 4-track compilation, In Your Cocoon. It's a few years old but it's a great record to have if you want to dip your toes into the artists' sound. Sounding off a bit of Billy Joel and Elton John, Kevin Burdick is steadily making his name known worldwide. He's performed in various key cities as well as arena sized crowds; delighting the audience with his soulful ballads while adding a sweet touch of rock.

Flights: Anywhere But Where I Am

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.

Dylan Pratt: Lifters & Leaners

It's always exciting to stumble upon a record that you know will be a part of your daily music routine for a long while. Dylan Pratt and his album, Lifters & Leaners, is one of those records. The album is a first for the singer/songwriter. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a soft and melodic voice along with beautiful lyrics; the album is the perfect capper after a long hard day at work. It also features quite a few guest musicians helping him complete the songs. Much of the record is composed of sweet, acoustic classic folk. So expect this album to be your perfect companion on dreary days, when all you want to do is cuddle in the comfort of your bed or maybe stay-in and enjoy a quiet evening.

California Condors: Calm Carnivore

The California Condors is not just the name for the largest North American land bird, but also the equivalent of a 3 piece West Coast crew that plays some infectious contemporary indie rock along with a slight 60s/70s touch. These Orange County natives count The Beatles, Willie Nelson and Neil Young among their influences. Indeed their distinctive sound echoes with this influence.

Rachel Ries: Without a Bird

Hailing from South Dakota, classically trained singer, pianist, violinist and violist, Rachel Ries astonishes with her brand of music. Although this album is a couple of years old, it's still worth listening to. Without a Bird is Rachel's second album and composed of a folk jazzy sound with beautiful lyrics. It first came out back in 2007 under Rachel's own So Dak Records. Her first album, For You Only, was initially released back in 2005 and was completely recorded in a vintage analog system. This second album was also done in analog, thus exuding a beautiful vintage feel. It's the type of songs you'll want to play at home on a laid back evening, relaxing and just taking in the moment.

The Juliets: Perfect Season

After the successful self-titled debut album, The Juliets are poised to take over the music scene. Formed in late 2008, the five-piece band of Jeremy Freer (piano/guitar/vocals), Sarah Myers (violin/vocals) and Kaylan Mitchell (cello) manages to seize new-age pop and classical music, applying their own twist with a violin and cello. Perfect Season is produced by the band along with Dave Feeney and was recorded during February and March this year. It introduces the addition of Ashton Hopkins (bass) and Jaclyn Phillips (drums) producing a 12-track record of raved up, string-heavy music.