Indie

Sweetheart: Map Of The Human Heart

Contrary to their name, Sweetheart isn't a band that does mushy, lovey-dovey music. Instead, what you'll hear when you put on their record is a mix of hipster, new wave music that's filled with jangly guitars and shouty vocals. If you thought The Strokes on first listen, well it really shouldn't be a surprise since the band does list them as among their influences. The group is made up of Canadian quartet, Matthew, Marty, Sammy, and Weezee. Map of the Human Heart is their debut record and it's filled with upbeat cuts that deal with various relationship issues.

Arrange: Plantation

Plantation embraces our sentimental tears and wounds, growing it into a teeming garden of emotional indulgence. This self-released solo project by Arrange, better known as Malcom Lacey, screams post-modernism all throughout due to the different approach on its structure-- the album in itself is a sole piece slowly progressing with each track. Now, how clever can that get?

The Susan Constant: Rayonnement

The boys of The Susan Constant dub themselves as a band who are "committed to writing hooky and insightful indie rock for local consumption, we write radio songs for people who don't listen to the radio." True enough, the five-piece stay true to their commitment and create songs that are radio-friendly and easy to listen to. Their sound is filled with indie rock goodness along with a touch of pop. This is a debut album for the band. It's released under Tour de Stade Records but you can grab the free digital download over at BandCamp.

Pat Parra: Lowered

One of my favorite indie album find of late, Pat Parra's Lowered is a beautiful and convincing debut record from the San Jose native. Released on BandCamp last June 2011, the album plays host to a multitude of genres and moods. You'll get a bit of 90s alternative, R&B, soul, anti-folk and even a few heavier indie rock pieces. All of which float around before successfully coalescing into sweeping guitars, moody electronics and intriguing vocals. The album was mastered at Different Fur by Patrick Brown and shortly after the release, Pat debuted a music video for the single, Forget Your Love.

Caitlin Linney

Still in her early 20s, singer/songwriter, Caitlin Linney, can be considered somewhat a veteran in the music business. She first started creating music at the age of 14. By 2007, she released her debut album, Fall Too Fast. Apart from those achievements, she's also an academically trained musician; having studied Performance and Songwriting at Emerson College. At the same time, she also took classes at Berklee College of Music. This self-titled EP is among her latest release and showcases the artists' raw and emphatic sound. Echoing a lovely country pop and mellow feel that reminds you of that quiet morning glow.

Denmaaahhrk Compilation from Aaahh Records

Perhaps one of my most favorite netlabels online, Aaahh Records is now back in full force. This time they're bringing in tow something extra special for their listeners. The gang spent one entire week, renting a house in Denmark and inviting all of the bands in their label to come and visit; bring their instruments and simply jam as well as create beautiful music together. The result is the compilation you see before you, The Denmaaahhrk Compilation. Expect nothing but fun times and great music in this album. You'll hear from the likes of Keyboard Rebel, Brynn and Entertainment for the Braindead (some of which have been featured on the blog.)

Saint Bernard: The Spirit of the Stairs

A quick Google search about Saint Bernard (the band) and you'll most likely not end up with much useful information. It's too bad since it would be nice to find out more about them and their sound. Despite the lack of info, their music is enough of a treat for those who take a listen. The Spirit of the Stairs is a lovely collection of indie pop rock tracks. There are 10 songs you can enjoy and each one is accompanied with a lovely acoustic vibe. Perfect for quiet mornings or if you're feeling a bit reflective; it's easy to pop on the album and simply let the melodies take you away.

Beware Wolf: Tales

Tales is a short 4-track EP from a trio of lads from West Yorkshire, England. Creating a flurry of indie math rock in a span of more or less 15 minutes, the band's debut is laden with some fun and catchy tunes worth taking note of. Made up of Tom, Liam and Sean; Beware Wolf strays away from hiding underneath instruments and instead cleverly mixes varying tempo, beats and smart lyrics to round up their cuts. It's this eclectic side coupled with the bands pop sensibilities that make each song in this record quite enjoyable.

Royal Teeth: Act Naturally

After some time spent on perfecting their lush melodies, it looks as if Royal Teeth are ready to become the next big thing. Hailing from New Orleans, the band is composed of Gary Larsen (Vocals/ Guitars), Nora Patterson (Vocals), Joshua Wells (Bass), Josh Hefner (Percussion), Stevie Billeaud (Guitar/Keys) and Andrew Poe (Vocals/Keys/Guitar/ Percussion). Their newly released debut album, Act Naturally, has five hits that will surely fit into everyone's playlist. One thing I like about Royal Teeth's music is their eager attempt to try something new producing tracks that play between dance pop and electronica.