Reviews

Frontregen: Frontregen

Frontregen is an indie Austrian band that create an eclectic pop punk indie rock sound. Their sound is characteristic of female sweet sounding vocals, a mix of alternative rock/pop beats and indie sensibilities. This self-titled album is a first for the group. It was released back in December 2010 and so far it's showcasing a lot of promise for this 5 piece crew. The entire album resonates with passion and energy; skillfully balancing a hard rock punk edge with that of sweet, pop folkish vocals. It's certainly worth checking out if you are a fan of these genres on their own.

Zxing Barcode Scanner

If you ever wanted one of those fancy barcode scanners, then you might want to give this application a download. This amazing new scanner works with any of your Android gadget as long as it has a camera that acts as the scanner itself. The program was developed by Zxing (Zebra Crossing) and can be used for scanning various barcodes from books, CDs, and even QR codes for downloading apps. Although it might seem like something only techies might only go gaga for, it's a fun way to learn more information about the products you scan. This Zxing Barcode Scanner is available for free download so what are you waiting for? Give the application a try.

The Tunnel

In 2007 the New South Wales government suddenly scrapped a plan to utilise the water in the disused underground train tunnels beneath Sydney. In 2008, chasing rumours of a government cover-up and urban legends surrounding the sudden backflip, investigative journalist Natasha Warner led a crew of four into the underground labyrinth. They went down into the tunnels looking for a story Ôø? until the story found them. This is the film of their harrowing ordeal. With unprecedented access to the recently declassified tapes they shot in the claustrophobic subway tunnels, as well as a series of candid interviews with the survivors, we come face to face with the terrifying truth.

Bad Fate: Olympic City

Fairly new in the music business, Bad Fate, releases a debut record filled with raw emotions, noise and a good amount of energy to keep everyone beaming happy. Production values might not be top notch on this one but it certainly has a rawness that is fresh and interesting. Olympic City comes with seven noisy grunge tracks juxtaposed with beautiful feminine shouty vocals (occasional male vocals too). Think Chrissy Hynde if she decided to scream her way through most of their songs. Check out this indie pop grunge sound by downloading the album. It's available for free in Jamendo.

Outliers

Outliers, starring Mendy St. Ours as a lone woman who all of the sudden finds herself in a chaos of a city besieged by what seems to be a lethal virus, is a spectacular nine-minute long action filled drama with even more amazing twisted ending. First released as a part of the 48HR Film Festival and finding its way as an official selection at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010, the short is undoubtedly one of the best produced, polished, and original works I have seen in a while; something that should take on even greater meaning as it was done in less than 48 hours. So if you enjoyed the 'end of the world' productions from the past and the many elements of surprise in hits such as The Truman Show be sure to give Outliers well, at least, a glimpse.

King of The Streets

(Warning: Game Contains Violence and Swearing) King of the Streets might seem like your typical versus fighting game, and indeed it is; but what's special about this one is that it's simply such good fun to play. Those who spent a good portion of their time playing Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat or even Tekken will understand the satisfaction of beating an opponent to a pulp while showing off some serious fighting skills. The game was initially a downtime project for Field Magic and then it just evolved into a full pledged game. King of the Streets engages you in a streetside brawl in a reign for supremacy. Give the game a try.

Dan Masquelier – Wake up

Dan Masquelier grew up with music; he plays violin, bass, piano, sings, writes and records his own creations. And with two albums already released on Jamendo many people who have made Dan's songs part of their permanent music collection hope there is still more to come. Originally from Tracy, California, and graduating from California State University at Chico with a degree in Music Industry and Technology, Dan's first album, Wake Up, is a wonderful blend of acoustic, folk, and a touch of indie sounds ready to warm up just about any day with its calm yet highly optimistic nature.

Planet M.U.L.E.

Planet M.U.L.E actually has had a long history. The original game was released back in the 1980s for the Atari 800 console. At that time, this was one of the few machines that allowed multi-player functions; featuring four ports. Today, the game has been remade with improved graphics as well as gameplay. Nevertheless, it stays true to the classics and ensures plenty of fun times ahead. The best part is that the game is offered absolutely free and works great on a Linux, Mac or Windows system. In the game, you play the role of a space traveler that's colonizing a planet. You'll need to use the planet's resources to make money and set up your colony. Certainly, a neat little game to try out.

Dead Bugs: Magical Animals

This lo-fi acoustic record is a compilation of some of the best songs by Dead Bugs. Magical Animals is a dreamy, folk record that is both moody and very relaxing. The songs were carefully chosen from the artists entire musical history and compiled in one great record by Italian indie netlabel, KillMommyRecords. This New Jersey artists offers some of the most melodic, acoustic folk you'll hear. It's topped off with his really endearing vocals, making you just want to cuddle and listen. If you adore indie folk, then you'll simply have a place in your heart for this singer. Give this one a download.