Reviews

Helldorados – Just Rock

Hardcore rock and roll that spells out what it means to have balls. Okay, so maybe I'm just a sucker for bands that don't take themselves too seriously, but still make fun, kickin' music. Helldorados is definitely this type of band, hence, falling for them is not very difficult. Just Rock is a compilation of 11 tracks that are as rock and roll as can be. It's a mix of late 80s glam rock, with the chant vocals, and guitar licks. Although it might not be "spectacular," the album is good fun to listen to especially if you want to pass away the time.

Klement – New Life (Compilation)

French producer and singer Klement compiles 15 tracks in his portfolio - some of unreleased and some previously released by different netlabels between 2003 and 2009 - to celebrate his music. This album is under Ego Twister netlabel. Klement's sound is a fusion of electronica, pop, and new wave. His beat sounds promising, but the mixing leaves a lot to be desired. I listened to the tracks once, and promised myself to not do it again. It was sort of frustrating for me because each track starts okay but then the notes get really messy, the beat lost and meaningless. Each song loses its way before half a minute is over. The mixing could definitely be improved, too.

Pixen – free graphic editing software for Mac

There's no denying that Mac users have their work cut out for them when it comes to looking for free or open source software and programs that they can use for their Macbooks. However, with Pixen available, they don't to worry much longer. Pixen is a fully free graphics editor software that you can use for your Mac. Most people know that there are a lot of reliable graphics software out there for Windows and other systems but hardly for Mac. This software is especially suited for pixel artists, however, it does work perfectly with all types of artists.

X – A Free Techno Compilation Album from Phlow Magazine

X – A Free Techno Compilation, is brought to us by Techno Blast | Phlow in cooperation with DJ Meeting. This is their first (and free) creative commons techno compilation. The compilation producers boast of a carefully designed selection that includes the best of the past and present indie artists. The tracks mostly came from different netlabels, but one track is exclusive to X . This track is from Sudio, who remixed "Sonic Impact" just to render more edge into this compilation.

Bi-Polar Bear – Today I Found Happy

Hip hop psychedelia with great rap vocals to match. With a witty name like Bi-Polar Bear featuring an apparently heartbroken blue bear on the disc, it's hard not to even try listening to this album. Self described as someone who sounds like Atmosphere, the duo, known before as "Strange Passengers" have renamed themselves as Bi-Polar Bear after their second reunion. All 11 tracks reflect a slight old school flavor with enough of a twist to make it their own. Of course, be warned there are explicit lyrics to this album, so if it's not your trip, then steer clear. Otherwise, feel free to indulge.

Pingus – open source Lemmings-like game

Ever got addicted to Lemmings when you were younger? Now, you can get the same game play only this time, you have Penguins to deal with. Pingus is a very entertaining open source game designed initially as a free Lemmings clone. However, throughout the years, the game has grown and now features over 22 levels, original artwork, new actions and multiplayer options. Basically, just like Lemmings, your main goal is to guide a group of Penguins from point A to point B. To make it challenging, there will be tons of obstacles preventing you from doing so. It's your job to reign the penguins in, so to speak, and make them follow your instructions.

NetLabel Coalition Volume 1 – Free Compilation Album

NetLabel Coalition Volume 1 is another compilation album that indie music enthusiasts should check out. The NetLabel Coalition (NLC) is composed of netlabels that are promoting and celebrating free music with enthusiasts around the world. They hang out in forums hosted by The Creative UnCommons. This album has some really good tracks for lovers of gutsy electronic music, as well as for those who enjoy quiet ambient sounds for introspection and relaxation.

Allison Crowe: Spiral

The songs in Allison Crowe’s Spiral will take you on a rough winding road through different emotions, joy and weariness, to name just two. Variety is the best feature of this album as it offers a little bit of country, a little bit of rock, and a little bit of pop. The best part, without a doubt, is the emotionally-packed, powerful big vocals of Allison Crowe. Allison Crowe has been known as a performer-songwriter who delivers great quality music and she does not disappoint in her latest album.