Reviews

Gapminder

On February 2006 Hans Rosling, a well known statistics guru, entered a stage at the TEDtalks and forever changed the way most of the people in the audience and around the world (as the video of his speech has been already seen by millions) looked at data. Developed by Rosling software does more than simply display the data - it brings them to life! The animations transform provided statistics into moving bubbles and flowing curves that make development and global trends (or any other set of data you wish to visualize) clear, intuitive, and even playful.

Weezer: The 8-bit Album (Pterodactyl)

Anybody who loves Weezer AND video games should definitely download this record. UK based video game netlabel, Pterodactyl, has finally made what most geek indie rock fanboys and fangirls' dream of without realizing it, a Weezer cover album done in 8-bit! This 14 track record consists of nothing but the best cuts from the gods of geek rock. Main difference is that instead of Cuomo and crew's usual chops, it's the 8-bit sound that dominates. If you love Weezer and video games, this is one record you shouldn't miss out on. It's a quirky take on some of the best Weezer singles out there, done by some of the best "chiptune talents" the label has to offer.

Teragati (Attachment Computing)

If you like space games, Teragati might deserve a spot in your iPhone or iPad. This fun game puts you in control of a spaceship that has to avoid or steer clear from various space junk hurling its way. It's a fun game that will definitely become an instant favorite on your iOS device. Teragati was created by Attachment Computing and made available on the App Store for free. It features wonderful graphics, as well as a highly addictive gameplay. Perfect for when you're bored or simply have too much time in your hands; the game is addictive and will definitely be tons of fun.

Gepel: Moducué

Gepel is a jazz trio from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Founded in 2006 they released their first album, Moducué (meaning 'thanks' in Lucumí, a Yoruba dialect), the very same year. The album, released under the Dharmasound Netlabel, is a collection of six wonderful tracks, each showcasing the great musical talents of its members. So if you are in the mood for original compositions with some excellent deep sounds of bass, heart piercing percussion, and rich piano - Gepel is definitely for you!

Desktop Poems

Remember those days when you would sit in your kitchen, in front of your fridge and move around those word magnets to try and shape it into a phrase or a sentence? Well, if you miss being able to do that or you simply don't spend enough time in your kitchen anymore, then grab this cool software. Desktop Poems mimic how word fridge magnets used to work. You get a random bunch of words that you can move around and arrange any way you want. The software was developed by Fredrik Olsson and is currently available as a free download from the App Store. Check out the software right now.

Dust River: Permanent Crisis

Listening to Dust River is like suffering through a 90s de'javu. If you didn't know better, you could easily mistake this French band for a popular, now-defunct grunge genius band named, Nirvana. The only real giveaway is the French sounding vocals as opposed to the garbled words of Cobain. Nevertheless, Permanent Crisis reflects a moody, grunge sound that's reminiscent of the movement when it first came out. The songs feature prominent jangly guitars, a rockin' vibe and plenty of attitude. This is the first EP from the group and so far, they're still trying to shape their sound. It's a pretty good effort though. One that certainly deserves to be heard. Give it a listen.

Death Worm

Death Worm is considered one of the classics. It's a quirky little freeware that's absolutely fun to play. If you remember Kevin Bacon running away from these giant worm-like creatures in Tremors, and you actually enjoyed it; then here's your chance to play the worm instead. The game lets you play as the invertebrate who has quite a big appetite. You can eat soldiers, surprise or fling around elephants and simply enjoy amazing chaos using your little big worm. Sure, it might be a little strange to be cheering and enjoying yourself while manipulating a giant spineless creature but it's definitely worth checking out. Give it a download right now.

Automaton: Clarions And Banners

Automaton is an interesting collective from Seattle, USA. Clarions and Banners is their second compilation since they formed back in 1998. Initially known as Automaton Adventure Series, they decided to keep the moniker simple and went with just Automaton for their recent releases. Creating a fusion of alternative indie rock with slight touches of noise, the group admits to being heavily influenced by Sonic Youth and Fugazi but they have slowly deviated and discovered their sound. This is a beautiful record that resonates with charm and energy. Take a listen.

Ranger

Ranger is the latest game released by Netherland-based developing outfit, Foppygames. This one is another fun adventure platformer where you get to play a pilot on a reconnaissance mission against hostile and unfriendly aliens. You'll need to navigate yourself through the many doors, looking for the hostages and rescuing them. At the same time, you'll need to defend yourself against the feisty aliens out to get you. This game was created using Blitz 3D. There are also several other freeware games offered by the developer on his site so after you're satisfied with saving all the hostages as well as killing all the alien kidnappers in this one, go ahead and check out the others as well. Cool game that's worth your time.