Pop

Backstreet Boys, Christina Aguilera, Destiny’s Child, Elton John

My Bubba & Mi: How it’s done in Italy

Probably one of the best folk record released for the year. The beautiful sound of My Bubba & Mi originate from three lovely ladies from Denmark. All three of them carry their instruments and create some of the loveliest, melodic, folk tracks you will ever hear. It might sound like an overstatement, but if you adore relaxing folk music, then this is a must have record. By coincidence or fate, My Bubba and Mia, became roommates in Copenhagen. They discovered each other's passion for music as they spent the many months together. Sharing laughters, singing and practicing. An invitation to head for Italy knocked on their doors; soon enough the girls found themselves heading home with a record on hand. Truly a wonderful album to listen to. It's hard to imagine why this is being offered for free but I'm not complaining. Awesome download right here.

My Bubba and Mi: How it’s done in Italy

Probably one of the best folk record released for the year. The beautiful sound of My Bubba & Mi originate from three lovely ladies from Denmark. All three of them carry their instruments and create some of the loveliest, melodic, folk tracks you will ever hear. It might sound like an overstatement, but if you adore relaxing folk music, then this is a must have record.

Tense Kids: Oh, Idaho!

Oh, Idaho! is a sweet and eclectic sounding compilation by three teens from Lexington, KY. Filled with 7 easy to listen and very diverse indie pop/rock, this debut compilation is a great listen. It features a great mix of indie pop vocals, quirky sounding vocals and pretty cool and catchy rhythm. Tense Kids is made up of Alex John and Joe Harbison. They're joined together by Eric Myers, Kyle Randall, Allen Shariaty, Dimitri Lozovoy and Aaron Graham. The group formed in late 2008 and spearheaded by Harbison, who also has several albums under his name. His songs are available for download here.

San Miguel: Primavera Sound Music 2011

Tents, amazing food, crazy outfits, dancing, drinking, and great music that turns thousands of people into your soon-to-be closest new friends; sounds like a ready-made vacation. And if you want to feel like a part of this summer music festival 'movement' be sure to check out the new mix from Primavera Sound. Since crossing into the new year the Primavera Festival already released its preliminary lineup for 2011, and as many of the artists also have some of their mp3s available on the Free Music Archive, Primavera Sound put together a little free album of what is coming up this year.

Intercontinental Music Lab: IIML Goes to War

The Intercontinental Music Lab has finally come out with their latest effort. A compilation of 14 tracks that combine folk, pop, rock, alternative, jazz and everything in between. Intercontinental Music Lab Goes to War is the latest effort from this experimental group. Basically, the group/organization has been around since 2008 and has released five previous albums. Each record revolves around a theme or concept, which musicians or groups can pick a subject from and create music about. It's much more detailed than that of course, but the result is nevertheless, an epic collaboration between musicians and artists. This is one great record to have by your side whether you're heading out to war or not.

netBloc Volume 31: Goodbye, Hello

BlocSonic once again releases their infamous collection of lovely, free tracks that music lovers everywhere can enjoy. The label unleashes several compilations throughout the year. This includes, maxBlocs, which consist of promotional maxi singles; Originals; Extended Editions, Extras and netBlocs, like this one. This is the 31st netBloc from them so far. For compilations like these, they gather up about 10 or more indie artists from all over the world; offering a peek at the music they play in the album. It's definitely an awesome way of discovering potential new playlist staples. The record is available for free download under three formats, simply choose which one you most prefer and enjoy!

Tsui’s Wreckage

This cool indie pop affair is Tsui's second compilation after the endearing Half Man Army was released back in 2007. This record is available in both physical CD formats and free download on the group's main website. It features 8 tracks that showcases beautiful indie pop with hints of acoustic guitars and melodic sequences. Formerly a member of indie folk group, Jr. Corduroy; Mark Kraus began to create music on his own. Writing and recording in bedrooms and various recording studios here and there. He creates pleasantly melodic cuts that are filled with catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics. Even though it's filled with simple songs, the album is easy to listen to and love.

Volumina: This is Our Home, Please Come In!

Volumina is essentially Benjamin Z. A native of Mexico, this dude definitely knows how to incorporate whimsical sounds, instrumental reveries and sweet vocals into his music. The album is an eclectic mix of instruments and sounds that makes you feel as if you were living in an cool, romantic 8-bit, children's program. This is Our Home, Please Come In! is equipped with 8 beautiful tracks that can make you reflect; wish you were a musician and even do the robot dance. This experimental indie pop album is a fun and spirited effort from this artist. Essentially, you get that warm fuzzy feeling when listening to album, just like someone important is giving you that big long hug once you've gotten home from a long hard day at work. This album is available for free download on Canadian netlabel, Peppermill Records. Check it out and give yourself a cozy warm hug just by listening to it.