Country

(George Strait, Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash)

The District Attorneys: Waiting on the Calm Down, The Basement Sessions EP

Laid-back and charming, these two words can best described the sound of The District Attorneys. Waiting on the Calm Down: The Basement Sessions EP is a short compilation meant to introduce and haul in fans as they wait for the guys to release a full record. Consisting of a six-piece crew from Athens, GA; they first started back in 2009 playing their form of classic rock. From melodic rock ballads to uptempo indie surf rock affairs, you get a good mix from this little compilation. These boys know their way around music. From creating catchy hooks, tight lyrics and great instrument work, there's plenty of fun up ahead with this record.

Oh!Hello: Spooky

Oh!Hello's follow-up to their delightful EP Beachy, is a curious thing. Originally a solo project, this Portland, Oregon band is composed of frontman Michael Todd Berland, Jordan Strickland and Nate Morse. They have already collaborated with other NW bands such as Grifflin Taylor (Faire du Surf) and Ed Hanson (Greate Horned Owl). Their latest set Spooky is a seven-track album released last October 27 and recorded under Vampire Factory.

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.

The Dimes: The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry

The Dimes have revamped boring history classes into a pristine musical collection. Composed of Johnny Clay, Pierre Kaiser, Kelly Masigat, Ryan Johnston, Tucker Jackson, Anthony Powell and Matt Farina, this American folk-pop collective from Portland, Oregon has been likened to the old country charm and sixties pop sensibility. After their debut album Silent Generation which is based on old newspaper articles, The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry is another literary experimentation that offers a steady doze of early Boston history.

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.

You Me and Apollo: Cards with Cheats

For moments when all you need is a sweet voiced singer with his guitar serenading your quiet afternoon; You Me and Apollo should make really good company. The guy behind this sonic ensemble is Brent Cowles. A pastor's son from Fort Collins, Cowles started writing and creating songs at the age of 14. Thanks to an early start, he developed a beautiful sound that resonates with both quiet and upbeat tempos, mesmerizing vocal work and skillful guitars. Simplicity and intrigue are both present in his work, something that makes you want to tune out the world and simply tune in to his songs.

My Bubba & Mi: Wild & You

Back with another lovely and sweet compilation, My Bubba & Mi just recently released a 5-track EP, Wild & You. Coated with beautiful folk melodies that the girls are known for, this mini-EP is filled with delightful cuts perfect for quiet and relaxing afternoons. The group is actually a trio, formed by three ladies who have a knack for creating some of the most gorgeous folk lullabies to serenade your ears. Their first full length album, How It's Done in Italy, was featured here in Frostclick a couple of months back. Their sound has gained a positive response from the listeners who have taken a liking to the band's self-dubbed "lullabies from the countryside."

The Patinettes: Bliss

Playing a mix of country, folk, rock and a bit of pop, The Patinettes certainly know how to reel listeners in. With their brand of music, this five piece crew from Zaragoza, Spain are slowly making the rounds and getting their name known among internet music lovers. Although there's not much about the band online, just one listen to their songs and you'll realize why they deserve a spot on your player. Filled with retro surf rock flair, beautiful vocals and a catchy bluegrass/country vibe; it's hard not fall for the album. The band is offering their record for free download over at Jamendo. It's licensed under a Creative Commons.