Reviews

Sebastian’s Voodoo (2008)

There might be no dialog and the film might only be 4 minutes long, but you will be astound at just how much tension and action can build up in those very 4 minutes. Sebastian's Voodoo, first released in June of 2008, is a wonderfully crafted animation from Joaquin Baldwin and provides an excellent example of just how CGI has improved in the last decade. But outside of the magical graphics the true selling point of the animation is its story in which a voodoo doll must find the courage to save all of his friends from being pinned to death by the voodoo Priest.

Orphan Songs

This self-titled debut album from Swedish band, Orphan Songs, is an amazing compilation of sweet, acoustic folk that will make you melt. It comes with 13 songs sung in a melodic folk pop rock style that's easy to listen to. Orphan Songs is a pet project for singer-songwriter, Carl-Otto Johansson. The album was originally released to critical acclaim back in 2008. By 2011, the album was re-released under a Creative Commons License; making it available as a free download. If you're looking for something to listen to on a quiet weekend, or maybe a companion for a long, drive home; you might want to check this out.

Longsleeves: Passage of Stairs

Dubbing their music "folk magic," Longsleeves definitely know what their music can do to people. Passage of Stairs is a mini 4-track compilation that enchants and hypnotizes listeners with its sweet voiced, laid-back indie folk pop rock sound. Originally hailing from the quiet town of Huntington, Indiana; this currently California-based duo can turn an ordinary quiet day to something extra special with their music. So far, the two has released 7 compilations; offering them as a free digital download under creative commons. Longsleeves is one of the few bands that beautifully mixes indie folk with pop and rock, then anointing it with just the right percussions, vocal work and electronics. Certainly a must-have record for those looking for some "folk magic."

Blood On My Name (2011)

I have written about work of the team from the Whitestone Motion Pictures before, and I am pretty sure I will write about them again... and again. The reason? They create some of the most outstanding and visually stimulating short films I have seen coming from boutique film company. Their latest creation, Blood On My Name, is a masterfully crafted dramatic western, centered on the theme of forgiveness and redemption, with just a touch of singing that will surely generate some unexpected goosebumps.

iStunt2 HD – Insane Hills

One of the coolest free games you can download from the App Store, iStunt2 HD - Insane Hills lets you do amazing acrobatic stunts while heading downhill in your snowboard. The game was created by Miniclip Inc. who has also created countless interesting games and made them available online. The game combines great gameplay along with beautiful graphics. It also makes use of the iPad's inner gyroscope when it comes to controlling your snowboarder. Why not check out the game right now? It's available as a free download and definitely worth trying out.

Henrik José – The Little Things

Henrik José, formally known as Bliss, comes to us from Malmö, Sweden. He started making music with computers all the way back in 1995 and has been sharing his free and amazing sounds ever since 1997. And now, after a break spinning nearly three years, Henrik is finally back with his latest release of The Little Things (and I have to say it was well worth the wait). The EP, available through the netlabel 23 Seconds (hosting some of the great young aspiring artists) and being the first official release under his real name, is a perfect example of wonderfully put together electronica/pop sounds for just about any ear.

Plastic People: Good As You

Good As You by the Plastic People is a mix of electronic indie hipster pop that's super catchy and easy to dance to. Released on German netlabel, afmusic, the band's sound is littered with catchy beats, electronic samples, and hipster vocals. This French band knows how to trigger a happy, non-stop music fanfare when it comes to their music. Their sound is poppy with great hints of electro punk and social commentary. Even if you are not a strict fan of the genre, you'll still enjoy this one. The compilation is offered absolutely free from BandCamp and certainly worth having a go at.

New Music Strategies: The 20 Things You Must Know About Music Online

So what does it take to thrive in the ever-changing music industry? Could New Music Strategies provide some of the answers? Well, actually it just could. The content of the e-book might have been written in 2007 (light-years in the age of information society) but its underlying principles are more than valid today and remain one of the top resources out there ready to help you (yes you!), aspiring musician, navigate through and understand the ever-changing nature of the industry. In essence, New Music Strategies by Andrew Dubber, is there to remind you of some basic yet extremely important guidelines (about 20 of them) and set you off on a great start in the new media environment.