Reviews

Alive in Joburg

If you ever heard of or watched District 9, you should make sure to hit play and take a peek at a short that started it all. Alive in Joburg is a science fiction short film directed by Neill Blomkamp and released by Spy Films in 2005. Filmed in Johannesburg, South Africa it became known for its great visual effects and documentary-style imagery exploring the tension between the human population and extraterrestrial refugees whose spaceships (some of which are estimated to be one kilometer in length) can be seen floating right above the city.

Mouth’s Cradle: The Next Big Thing

Electrifying mix of head-banging beats, video game tunes, 50s soul, garage rock, pop and a good dose of slammin white boy hip-hop - want even more? If you do than Mouth's Cradle is here to satisfy all your musical senses. You might already seen their name in the iTunes Store's "New and Noteworthy" and "Pop" pages or the countless blogs raving about their latest release. And if you still didn't here is your chance to get properly acquainted as the duo have selected seven amazing tracks from their album The Next Big Thing and with a tiny help of FrostWire decided to share them with the world.

Jumy: Every day is the First Day

This set is a collection of acoustic folk pop songs from Frenchman, jumy. Every Day is the First Day mixes masterful guitar strumming with southern harmonica and some peppy tune. It reminds me of a quiet summer getaway where you just sit down with friends, sing along and play guitar. Nice relaxing sounds. This the second release from the artist. His first album, de bric et de broc, is also a compilation of folk pop songs played in his beautifully embellished guitar and recorded in his makeshift home studio. The album is available as a free download on Jamendo and licensed under a creative commons license.

JDH: Arms Legs Feet

JDH is a solo electronic indie pop project straight from Vancouver. In real life JDH is Johnny Dylan Hughes, more than just a talented musician whose latest beautifully put together creation, Arms Legs Feet, took close to four years to polish and perfect before its official release. The album, recorded at JDH's house and Buena Vista Audio in Langley, BC from 2005 to 2009, came to life as a product of the near-death experiences and trials and its songs, filled with soulful lyrics, hypnotic shoegaze guitars, and more than hopeful synth leads, are there to fill your day with magical beats.

Mandate of Heaven: Hun in the Sun

This is the second time these boys from Syracuse, NY are making an appearance here at Frostclick. Their more recent album, The Next Valley Over was featured last July. Hun in the Sun is one of the older Mandate of Heaven albums, but it's nevertheless, still a goodie. The album is laced with beautiful instruments and sweet vibes throughout. Mandate of Heaven is fronted by Greg Pier, who also uses the same moniker for his solo performances once in awhile. The record might be a few years old but it's still a must-listen for those who love progressive rock with a slight retro feel to it. Beautiful album to check out.

John Vanderslice: Green Grow The Rushes

John Vanderslice is an American singer/songwriter that has quite a repertoire. He's been in various bands starting from the 1990s. Ever since he decided to take the solo flight, he's released a great number of albums and singles. Some of which are available for free download, like this one. Green Grow The Rushes is a 6-track mini compilation that's packed with upbeat, whimsical folk pop songs. It's a beautiful record that's a bit more reflective and personal compared to his other works. Since his first solo debut, Mass Suicide Occult Figurines, where he gained some attention for one single, Bill Gates Must Die; the singer has moved on to other topics. He still has that spark though. His songs are infused with a certain enigma that most musicians simply cannot find. Take a listen.

Star Opus: Episode I “Pathway to the Pollux”

Dubbed as the "real mother of all retro games," Star Opus I takes retro shooting to a whole new level. The game induces some hardcore Asteroids style of gameplay along with some lovely, lovely tunes to go along with it. Star Opus I is essentially a one-man project. The first episode is currently released as a freeware and so will Episode II, which is currently under construction. However, it seems to be set for a commercial release later on. Let's just hope this doesn't come soon enough. For the meantime, grab this download from their website or simply hit the Download Game link. It's perfect if you just want to get away for awhile, head to space and shoot some asteroids.

Silver Rocket: Silver Rocket

Italian band Silver Rocket is making plenty of good noise in the indie music scene. Ever since releasing their five song self-titled EP last November 2010, the three-piece crew has been gaining plenty of interest. Creating a punk and alternative concoction that is catchy and enjoyable; this 26 minute EP is released under German netlabel, afmusic , and offered absolutely free. Enjoy a great blend of garage rock with heartstopping beats, dirty guitars and straight out rock and roll. You can grab the download here by hitting the Download Album link or the image. You can also get it from the afmusic website. It's not earth-shattering but it's certainly worth it.

PhotoRocket

You might think that PhotoRocket is just another photosharing program but there's actually quite a few features you might find charming in this cool app. Apart from the fact that it's offered absolutely free, there are a couple of things that makes this one slightly different from all the rest. Aiming to be the easiest program you'll ever use when it comes to photosharing, PhotoRocket actually works great. It lets users easily share photos without much hassle. It provides an easy to use interface that's simple to navigate even for non-techie users. Give the program a try. This might be the photosharing program you've been waiting for.