Rivers Cuomo

Andy Shea: Braver

Braver is Andy Shea's latest short compilation. An artist that believes music is best shared and enjoyed with friends; the album is a 4-track collection that showcases simple yet endearing indie acoustic folk. Described as a fan of the "NBA and Shakespeare," Shea is a talented singer songwriter that's currently based in New England. He admits to being influenced by fellow musicians and talented songwriters, Rivers Cuomo and Elliot Smith among others.

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.

Roar – I Can’t Handle Change

I Can't Handle Change is a beautiful indie rock compilation from ROAR, an Arizona band spearheaded by Owen Evans, formerly of Asleep in the Sea. Evans is joined by a couple of mates in creating a band that sounds like the lovechild of Rivers Cuomo and his "wide-spread power-pop influence" or maybe "Brian Wilson playing his piano in the middle of a sandbox filled with dog turds." I partly agree with the first description but for sure, the band sounds like they are happy making music that's making other people (aka people like me) quite happy. They mix a good dose of pop, indie rock and sweet melodies to make you want to hit playback over and over again. Grab this download or help out the group by purchasing their record over at iTunes. Definitely worth it.