wasfuersohr

Panther Ray - 2012 - Parallel Motions

2012-06-06T04:10:00.000+02:00

Rock and Roll

[FOR FREE]

http://pantherray.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://pantherray.bandcamp.com/"

8 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Soar, Memory Bank

Impressions

'Parallel Motions' is thick with the haziness of rock and roll, with the kinds of instrumental and vocal effects that one might come to expect from a psychedelic record, and probably the warmest sounding bass I've heard in some time. Sticking to a structure that's mostly grounded in pop is where Panther Ray situate themselves for most of this record, with songs like “Water Towers” and “Color Tilt” being excellent examples of straightforward rock and roll with little in the way of effects playing a very large role in the proceedings. The fourth track, “Memory Bank”, it's the money maker here, hands down. Panther Ray could launch an entire iProduct line with that song it's so damn catchy. Seriously guys, this is the song car commercials use to drive off into the sunset. There is no shame is having more people hear your music in an advertisement if it means you can keep doing this. On the other hand a couple of the tracks play up the psychedelia end of things to quite good effect, specifically “Soar” which is built around what sounds like a reversed drum beat that's been looped. And I guess this is the one let down of the album for me. There are hints of the band exploring the space around them and dipping their toes into expanding their sound (surf and ambient pop up in controlled bursts). They're flirting with psychedelia really, never diving headlong into it. A shame, as their fleeting gestures to it are some of the records best.

Anusheh Anadil - 2012 - Rai

2012-05-30T02:43:00.000+02:00

World Music

[FOR FREE]

http://anushehanadil.com/

<a href="http://anushehanadil.com/"

11 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Rohoshshyo, Aha Ki Jaley Atkailore, Mon Diya Por Ashol Madrasae

Impressions

Okay, stick with me here. I would say 'Rai' is quite the album, with world music and folk elements being a big part of the mix, and I would say pop. Of course I don't know much (see: “anything” - editor), about Bengali music or the Dhaka music scene and don't know what this might be considered there, I do however know that I really enjoyed this album, whatever genre of music it is (and whatever the lyrics may be, as I do not speak a lick of Bengali). I really am flying blind on this one; completely out of my element musically, that said, music is like math, its appeal is universal and 'Rai' is no exception. The instrumentation here has a warm sound, very inviting, getting funky from time to time (“Shabash Manush” and “Aha Ki Jaley Atkailore” get down with their bad self). Anadil's voice is the main attraction for majority of the songs, compellingly powerful and direct, sultry at times, even when the she comes off as relaxed in a few of the folk-oriented songs on the record where the vocals are a little more of what I'd consider 'rock' vocals (“Nodir Prem”, “Radham Prem”). The harmonies on “Mon Diya Por Madrasae” sound like a childrens choir is backing Anadil up, and it's rather beautiful and uplifting (the guitar solo doesn't hurt either). A record I was hesitant to review at first, but I think others will enjoy 'Rai' as much as I have. The internet is the great equalizer for music, allowing artists from all corners of the world to be heard and enjoyed from all other corners, and here's proof.

Kindest of Thieves - 2012 - Ever The Optimist

2012-05-26T16:22:00.000+02:00

pop/indie rock

[FOR FREE]

http://kothieves.bandcamp.com/

4 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Go To Town On Me, Bones

English

Kindest of Thieves could certainly be characterized along with the plethora of indie rock bands that have saturated the music world in recent years, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t any fun to be had messing around in other boxes of toys as well. This EP moves at a brisk pace, the four tracks coming in at under twelve minutes, but in that time, it covers an appealing palette of sounds and influences; some songs, like “Amelia”, dabble with country and folk conventions and graft them onto the dynamics and bombast of indie rock, spinning those tropes into slight but subtly brilliant sing-alongs. Others are more direct about their experimentation, like “Go To Town On Me”, which takes the band into swing territory (albeit tempered with the atmospherics of indie rock, which the band use to tie the whole package together). This is all fine and well, but what about the band itself? some of you may be wondering, but for all my talk about influences, the songs feel remarkably cohesive, all of them swathed in clean but organic production that keeps the band centered yet lets the more offbeat moments shine as well. The songwriting here is also quite clean, seamlessly weaving in tangents from all sorts of areas into its tapestry of colorful folk-rock. This is a brief sample of what Kindest of Thieves has cooked up in their heads, but I’m already excited for another taste.

Bit Bit Orunge - 2012 - Orbit

2012-05-23T12:41:00.000+02:00

Chiptune/Cosmic Electronic

[FOR FREE]

http://bitbitorunge.bandcamp.com/

5 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: 5Th Season, The Launch

English

Some things in the world are only available to the imagination; no matter how advanced or innovative our technologies become, we will never be able to grasp, say, something as infinitely small as a cell—or wrap our heads around something as infinitely immense as the universe. We’ll always be stuck somewhere in the middle, giants on the face of the earth and specks of dust in the face of the stars. Space may be something that we can never reach the ends of, but at least Bit Bit Orunge paints a stellar picture of what it would be like in Orbit. Opener “5th Season” sets a promising mood right away; it’s a beautiful slice of swooping synths and haunting bloops, and the track nails both the feelings of isolation and awe that the cosmos can inspire. “Jupita” progresses in much the same way, miniscule yet majestic, synthesized yet sincere, wispy yet weathered. Bit Bit Orunge has a way with melodies that drift seemingly aimlessly before they surge up in empowering roars. His instrumentation is also commendable; it’s a brilliant combination of electronic and instrumental, and the interplay yields fantastic dividends throughout. Strings swell in the background while bits of piano and computers swirl and intertwine. Each of the various instruments gets a chance to shine, and they never fight for dominance but simply play to each others’ strengths, soaring to blissful, uplifting heights. It’s a shame Orbit is such a short journey, but it is a gorgeous, stirring ride while it lasts.

Snowcake - 2009 - Snowcake

2012-05-19T23:47:00.000+02:00

Pop

[FOR FREE]

http://ltrecords.bandcamp.com/album/snowcake

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://ltrecords.bandcamp.com/album/snowcake"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;?&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

8 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Trigger Pull, Hook It, Ticket To Ride

English

I've had a time of it trying to write this review for Snowcake. How can I write a review of an album my brain initially says is “Female Radiohead”, when I know that is not the case at all and will only hurt the album through an unfair comparison to that band if I write around that premise. So I guess I'll just forget that initial impression outside this opening sentence and move onto 'Snowcake' as its own terms.
So Snowcake, both band and album, have created a cache of pop that is instantly memorable and incredibly catchy. And that's what I want out of my pop music anyway, and this delivers. Add it to the ever-growing list of female fronted works I've reviewed in the past months if you must, I'm sure someone it keeping a tally of it somewhere. The keyboard/bass on “Stars” is probably what gave me my initial impression about the record, but after the sound diverges in a few couple directions; some taking neo-soul/jazz with a focus more on the piano/keyboards (“Hook It” especially, with that old school organ-sounding intro) and an airy, relaxed sound, while others tracks veer off in an electropop direction that's dominated by a faster pace, synthesizer, and drum machine loops. To simplify, one is smoky lounge clubs and the other is dance floors and strobe lights. As a nerd, “Ticket to Ride” makes my smile a little wider, with me picturing Snowcake sitting around playing a round or 5 (or my friends and I for that matter), even if the song isn't explicitly about the board game. Even the mere possibility exists is enough for me to enjoy the song on an extra level (it's one of the highlights of the album even if what I just said confuses you immensely). “Unfinished Business” is a melding of the two sounds the album splits itself between with heavy thudding drum and bass, and keys that shift between twinkly ivories and techno beats and makes for a really solid (if too short) way to finish off the record. It's a mix of airy, soulful pop and dancier techno pop with a few tracks that bring it all together with lovely results. Have a slice of 'Snowcake' won't you?

Wolfmen of Mars - 2011 - Digital Penetration

2012-05-16T03:06:00.000+02:00

Synth Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://wolfmenofmars.bandcamp.com

<a href="http://wolfmenofmars.bandcamp.com"

4 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: East Of Dementia

Impressions

It's with a love of John Carpenter soundtracks that Wolfmen of Mars take up their instruments to rock out the music of 'Digital Penetration'. Now, if you go in expecting anything even remotely similar to the atmospheric synthesizer-heavy music John Carpenter is known for, you'll leave disappointed, as this is not it. There's a lot of keyboards and synthesizers here, sure, but in this instance The Shape is just as likely to bust up a dance floor as he is a helpless babysitter. A strange mental image certainly, but appropriate with Wolfmen of Mars, as they play dance rock that's heavily influenced by horror and science-fiction films (audio clips from old films fit perfectly) both in tone and structure. With song titles like “Something Monstrous Pt. 1” and “East of Dementia”, it's obvious WoM have their tongues in their cheeks. The music itself follows much the same pattern – songs of eerie keyboard lines and audio samples (billowing wind, guttural growls) surrounded by the absolutely bouncy guitar/bass/drum boogie” East of Dementia” or drum and bass slabs of dance music in “Something Monstrous” 1 and 2. Only opener “The Breather” sticks the horror vibe the entire song length, and only because the drum and bass back up the horrifying revelation audio cue 'Dun NUH' instead of playing against it rhythmically. The last two tracks are remixes of the first and fourth track respectively, and both approach the goofy library music tracks accompanying a George Romero zombie satire in their pomp and lighthearted feel. An interesting detour to end the EP. Not a bad soundtrack for a Halloween party this one.

Synthcake surprise!

2012-05-14T19:34:00.001+02:00

Good news for everyone who liked the the newest Synthcake record "Molding through seasons", but didnt have the money to throw them at the artists currently. Its now FREE! So grab it if you dont have it yet. Blog post has been updated to reflect that.

Synthcake - 2012 - Molding through Seasons

And since I am not getting tired of mentioning their first record:

Synthcake - 2011 - Musicophilia

Dan Axtell - 2012 - Cosmos

2012-05-12T23:49:00.000+02:00

Free jazz

[FOR FREE]

http://danaxtell.bandcamp.com/

7 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Organic Matter, People Live On Other Planets

English

Maybe it’s the arrival of spring and warmer, happier weather, but I have been spending my May nights gazing up at the stars. And the cool thing is, I’ve heard all the gloom and doom about how small we are in the universe’s endgame, and I still feel completely in touch with them. Yes, we are specks of dust on the face of the galaxies, but what does that matter? If I holler at the sky loud enough, somebody will be listening.
I wonder if Dan Axtell and his trio of jazz musicians were feeling the same vibes I’m feeling when they were putting together Cosmos, which I can safely declare one of the most thrilling, joyous, and uplifting albums of 2012 in any genre. The album flows in a completely organic manner that almost betrays the genre; nothing here is ever done for flash or for pomp, and the parts of each song just dance around each other, whether it’s the bass playing a funky groove behind gong reverbs and xylophone tinkles in “Organic Matter” or a cymbal crashing right at the perfect moment to accentuate transitions in “Cosmic Song of Life”. The instruments strike a perfect blend of the authentic and the synthesized, and neither gets in the other’s way; you may be listening to a piercing synthesizer wail before the floor drops out and you’re treated to a haunting piano solo suitable for any self-respecting National Geographic documentary. Harmony is the name of Axtell’s game here, and he doesn’t strike a false note in this set of songs.
Cosmos is simply life-affirming, an album abundant in zest, grace, and soul. And sure, you can read this and just crawl back into your bed, wondering if the world is out to get you. Or you can get a flashlight and put on that pair of shoes you have, the one filled with holes but is still just good enough to walk in. Find a sidewalk, one that hardly anybody passes through, reach up to touch the stars, turn up Cosmos, and holler at the sky. After all, you have to be pretty loud if you want those guys up there to hear you.

Amulet - 2011 - Amulet

2012-05-10T01:20:00.000+02:00

Alternative Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://amuletjams.bandcamp.com/

5 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Devils Dancing Shoes, Pardon My Freedom

English

Stupidly fun rock music to get down and dirty to, leaving you breathless from screaming your lungs out while throwing your limbs through the room. This might not be your cup of tea, but you'll find out easily enough. If you don't like the first song, the rest won't blow you away either since Amulet kept an overall consistant feeling to their songs on this record, even though they manage to mix some parts up quite a bit with some slower song sections and Blues influences. I wouldn't necessarily call their overall style Blues Rock, but they certainly show off the inspiration they've taken from Blues, most prominently featured in Pardon My Freedom. I'd love to see them branching even further from their established sound. Those, sometimes subtle, Blues influences are quite an interesting addition to the basic Alternative Rock sound and I'd love to see them expanding on the foundation they laid with this EP. With some of the guitar riffs being quite the treat, its solid Alternative Rock nature and convincing attitude this is a record you should definitely give a listen. I did mention its stupidly fun to listen to, right? Recommended.

Synthcake - 2012 - Molding Through Seasons

2012-05-06T00:25:00.002+02:00

Synthpop

[FOR FREE]

http://synthcakemusic.bandcamp.com/album/molding-through-seasons

<a href="http://synthcakemusic.bandcamp.com/album/molding-through-seasons"

5 songs to download
free to download
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Drip, Sail Away

Impressions

Synthcake's first EP, Musicophilia, was one of the most entertaining aural experiences I had throughout the whole of 2011. It also made my Top 3 list of 2011 and if you haven't listened to it yet, take this post as a friendly reminder to check out their free and incredibly impressive debut EP. Starting with those expectations, its hard to judge Molding through Seasons. Returning listeners are usually inclined to want more of what they already liked and that is not quite what Synthcake delivered here. This time, the world you are going to enter is not as easy going and inviting, which isn't bad by any means. "Different" is the key word here. Whereas Musicophilia was the equivalent of haunted tales coming to life in your bedroom and showing you little dark secrets that nevertheless are far away from your safe resting place, Molding through Seasons lures and pulls you right down in the pitch black and haunted dancing grounds of creatures that will make you feel a bit more than just uneasy. This EP, as short as it may be, is a journey from which you can't back off once you started it. Let me show you what I mean: The first track is more reminiscent of the first EP, and which indeed has already seen a prior release, therefore luring the listener with something familiar into this dark carneval. After this beginning, you are introduced to softly singing and enchanting sirens that tempt you to come with them on their journey, luring listeners into the haunting story of Alice. Here, the parallels between Alice's and the listeners world seem to blur, only to finally culminate into the dark carnival you attend at the end of song 4 - Molding through Seasons.
While they deviate quite a bit from the overall feeling of Musicophilia, they somehow manage staying true to their own style of inviting people on a haunted dance. A different dance this time for sure, but nonetheless still as refreshing and special as their first invitation. The use of experimental sounds, more elaborate story telling and once more superb and unique feeling are making Molding through Seasons another journey I heartily recommend to any brave soul willing to dance in the shadows to songs unknown.

Skinny Girls - 2011 - For Kate Moss

2012-05-02T22:34:00.000+02:00

Electronic

[FOR FREE]

http://skinnygirls.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://skinnygirls.bandcamp.com/"

5 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Beauty Dies

Impressions

Here's an odd little ditty of a record; an ambient electronic album loosely dedicated to/about model Kate Moss made up almost entirely of samples, that manages to take its crazy conceptual trappings (loose as they are) and make for a deranged, but still entertaining listen. If the title 'For Kate Moss' is more than some kind of joke Moss herself is in on, the cold minimalism and tightly strung tension of the five tracks is more than a little creepy, I'll be honest with you. “Die Down into Something”, the first track is a voice sample looped through filters repeatedly, over the increasingly louder sound of a [vinyl] record skipping and electronic noise. The rest of the EP takes a similarly cold, minimalist approach to their structure: “Beauty Dies” has haunting vocals over a menacing bass line and a piano sample straight out of a haunted house (ending a familiar but effective sample from “Run the Heart”). “In Church †” is an organ sample that sounds like it gets caught in an industrial fire that comes off creepier than it might otherwise in comparison to the morose feeling the other songs are imbibed with. “Sleep on the Floor” seems to be made up of more than one sample (that I cannot identify), and has the haunting vocals again (this time at various places in the mix) that could easily pass for the sounds of the English Moors on a foggy evening (if you're inclined to watch b&w horror films anyway). “Goodbye/Katie's Photos” is a disjointed piano and percussion loop that's less creepy, and a little too repetitive for over half its run time. Though it does crescendo to a not unsurprising noisy finally with tape hiss. If you listen to one record stalking Kate Moss this year, make it this one. Definitely a a niche sound, but its got an audience out there, I know it.

Inma Gomes - 2011 - Blue Season

2012-04-29T00:15:00.001+02:00

R&B

[FOR FREE]

http://inmagomes.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://inmagomes.bandcamp.com/"

4 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Now

Impressions

There was a time when Inma Gomes would have topped the charts with her bluesy R&B and wild voice, and with any luck there will be again. Her four track LP, Blue Season definitely has throwback appeal, for those that like their r&b with a lot more blues and jazz than what passes for R&B these days. Gomes is backed up by a bass and guitar and that's it; no gimmicks, no attempts to add a sweeping orchestral movement, or dance beats to the proceedings. Of course the focus for this record is on Inma's voice, and she doesn't hold back. With the warm bassline, “Other Moment” sees her reaching for the top of her vocal register, with silky smooth results. In fact the bass has very warm sound to it through the entire EP, moving from the funky groove slaps on 'NOW' to backing melody on “SHE”, and it's really nice to hear more than a typical 'walking bass' holding up the low end, especially when drum and bass tend to sound similar all the time when jazz and blues are heavily influencing the music. Which is not to deride the guitar work, as it's suitably low key behind Inma's voice (it grabs your attention on “SPACE” quite nicely), it just doesn't stand out as much to me as the bass does. There is some dirtiness to the instruments though, occasional off notes, they both have an almost impromptu, live sound that doesn't come off sounding polished at all, but is infinitely more listenable for it as far as I'm concerned. If you need something a bit mellow, a bit funky, with a great voice, then Blue Season is the EP to grab.

The First Chairs - 2012 - Plastic & Prestige

2012-04-26T01:38:00.000+02:00

ska/rock

[FOR FREE]

http://thefirstchairs.bandcamp.com/

4 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: It's Okay, Plastic & Prestige

English

Creative instrumentation can spice up any type of music, whether it’s enhancing the sound or reinventing it. Don’t get me wrong: Plastic and Prestige would be a solid slice of uncompromising, anthemic rock on its own. But the decision to go in a fairly unexplored direction and add brass to the band really fills out the sound and takes it to a completely new level. Every component of this music has an affable punk charm to it, whether it’s the ragged yet dignified vocals; the manic convulsions of the guitar; the rousing brass section; and the constantly shifting, ebbing tempo, always about to careen over the edge but holding together against the odds. Sure, it’s unpolished, but damned if it isn’t even more compelling that way, almost as if the band is just messing with you to see how much they can shake you up. With or without the mindtrickery, though, this is just a jovial, uplifting experience, full of insights coming from unexpected places and with songwriting good enough to speak for the band’s conceits. These troubadors are young, but they already quite a bit to share, whether it’s about the pain of growing up or the struggle to find yourself in a world that could want nothing less. And ultimately, that’s where Plastic and Prestige finds itself: that weird space between being completely lost and moving forward all the same, and if for nothing else, I have to commend this band for fleshing out that battle with such honesty.

Arks - 2011 - -

2012-04-22T19:05:00.000+02:00

Indie /Dream Pop

[FOR FREE]

http://arksmusicuk.bandcamp.com/

4 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Ontario, Patterns

English

Some musical experiences are hard to put into words, and the EP at hand by Arks definitely is among them. Ghostly vocals, emotionally powerful instrumentation with amazing build ups and a remarkable variety of sounds ensure that you probably haven't heard a band quite like it in recent times. However, this does not even begin to describe the craftsmanship at work here. Overall an interesting and convincingly executed concept with fantastic sound quality , although the deliberately muffled vocals to produce the slightly ethereal sound might prove to be an entry barrier for some. This very specific mix will most certainly find its fair share of fans, even though it probably will end up alienating as much others. Music doesn't need to be for everyone, though, and every music afficionado is certainly not poorer for experiencing such musical pieces. As it stands, this 4 song EP is very much worth a listen as it is one of the most interesting sound mixes I've heard in a while. It might not be for everyone, but those willing to charter to new lands will find and love the results of the work the musical adventurers of Arks have done here.

Those Gulls - 2011 - Those Gulls

2012-04-19T20:06:00.000+02:00

Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://thosegulls.bandcamp.com

&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thosegulls.bandcamp.com"&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;?&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

10 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Your Politics, Choke, Swim with Sharks

English

Those Gulls self-titled album is three piece post-punk by way of grunge rock, with sociopolitical themes underpinning the goings on. The boys keep things moving at a brisk pace, only letting you catch your breath when the album itself has reached its finale; 'I'm a Ballchopper' is a remix that verges on industrial hip-hop and is considered a 'bonus track'. For a three piece they punch above their weight, the music has the large“all consuming” sound that larger bands tends to create. The guitars are certainly center stage most of the time, and that's where I feel the grunge aspect of their sound comes from. The riffs are heavy, but anthemic; like the guitars on a good Pearl Jam or Screaming Trees song would be. That isn't to say that everything is perfectly peachy.At times, the bass gets lost in the mix, like Metallica's “And Justice for All”. Guitar dominance will do that I suppose, but for every rare occasion that occurs, you've got thick bass lines bringing up the low end ('Say Goodnight') – The bass solo, yes bass solo,on 'Choke' is probably the stand out section of the album for me. It's not every day the bass gets to spotlight in rock music in quite this manner. The vocals can swing from excellent to a bit off for some intangible reason. Oddly placed in the mix on occasion, the singer sounds like he is up above (in a literal sense) everything else. It's got some issues with mixing that annoy, but these three guys have produced a really good rock record here that earns your attention. Rock out in your Sunday best flannel!

Warning – Flannel is a fashion statement not to be undertaken lightly.

Ten Million Sounds - - Ten Million Sounds : Morning Light Compilation

2012-04-17T16:38:00.000+02:00

Ambient/ Hip Hop

[FOR FREE]

http://tenmillionsounds.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://tenmillionsounds.bandcamp.com/"

14 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Desires

Impressions

Open your eyes dear reader, it's morning. You've been asleep a long time. The light can be harsh at first, but your eyes will adjust soon enough, once the mist of sleep have cleared from your mind. That sound you hear is the music of a brilliant morning just like this one. 'Ten Million Sounds' to be exact, “Ten Million Sounds: Morning Light Come” to be more exact, a compilation of ambient electronica and instrumental hip hop with a general theme of morning and hope. If a collection of music could ever be more fitting for a way to start your day, I think it would be field recordings of forests filled with birds. Every track on this album has just the right amount of energy and a gentle pacing to get one going in the morning (or, in theory a way to unwind at night). Every song here is extremely polished, nary a rough edge in sight, though Larry Blueberry's “Somewhere Going” does take down tempo to extremes not explored elsewhere on the record. On the opposite end of the tempo spectrum (and quite possibly an enchanted forest), “Desires” is built around the flowing melody of a flute and Otso's “Beginning of the End” also features one. Two flutes, one album, no Kenny G. It's a win/win in my eyes. A side note, bugseed seems to be channelling their inner “What Does Your Soul Look Like” on “Gentle”, which is a great point of reference for this particular compilation. If you're in need of some uplifting music to put a spark in your step, Ten Million Sounds, with it's bright ambiance and upbeat and funky hip-hop will do the trick.

--note--

This album was released as part of a charity drive for International Justice Mission and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. More information on these organizations and the charity can be found on the Ten Million Sounds bandcamp site.

MINH [MAY] - 2012 - Hunt Your Own...

2012-04-14T21:16:00.000+02:00

New Wave / Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://minhmay.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://minhmay.bandcamp.com/"

4 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Without

Impressions

I do love to be surprised, and “I'd Like”, aptly named as it is, did just that while I was sitting down to listen to MINH [May]. The song begins with a slow paced bit of rock, overlayed with accordion-sounding synths driving the melody (or maybe an actual accordion, I don't know). It sound a bit like Low, if you're familiar, and I was set for an EP of slowcore infused, dreamy electrorock (the bands choice of term, not mine). Then something changed, I turn away for a second and MINH [MAY] busts the guitars out of complete left field, I thought the song had changed. Nope, they decided to sucker punch me with riffs when I least expected it and end the song on a huge high. Then, just as I'm getting my wits about me, “No one Protests!” brings a Devo-esque shout-sing anthem to the plate, with enough 80's new wave to bring back stonewashed jeans all on its own (Dig those drums)! “Without” is all about the tribal drums and crunchy guitars laying the groundwork for the anti-war lyrics that fit nicely along side those on “No one Protests!”. The last track, “I'm Alive” is a slice of 80's synth rock, all keyboards, samples, and drums battling for electronic supremacy, until of course the guitar jump into the mix at the half way point and turn the whole thing on its ear (the squealing keyboard loops add a lunatic vibe). The vocal work really piqued my ears up from the get go, there is just something about it that sounds so out of place, but I can't picture this music with anyone else singing. I have to think it's the accent (though I can't place it for the life of me), that make it seem like the singer could be dropping rhymes over dance hall beats, or the voice leading a workers revolt unto the factories. They're re-purposing an old sound for something uniquely their own. Download MINH[MAY]'s 'Hunt Your Own' now!

The Ages - 2011 - The Ages EP

2012-04-11T04:16:00.000+02:00

Pop Jazz/Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://the-ages.com/album/the-ages-ep

5 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: So Long, Caroline

English

A mixture of pop rhythms and some rock and jazz instruments makes this record rather pleasant to listen to. This record starts off pretty snappy and I get the impression that their style of music is very suited to that sort of fast paced and upbeat music. Unfortunately, those are only the first two songs. The other 3 songs are falling into a "pop love song"-category, reminding me of some rather plain songs from the 90's, which dont quite seem to have the same kind of expression and don't stand out as much as the first two. These songs might just be a tad too "clean" to truly catch some attention. They are pleasant to listen to, and I am sure The Ages found enough people enjoying their sound. The use of the jazz instruments really is refreshing and considering the feeling you get while listening to those first songs, I wish they'd have concentrated on making more upbeat music to tap your feet to. Overall not bad, but lacking a certain something to make it truly stand out.

Loud Apartment - 2011 - Get Up Get Down

2012-04-08T02:27:00.001+02:00

Funk Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://loudapt.bandcamp.com/

10 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Get Up Get Down 2, Shaker

English

Some music is just so colorful and unapologetically enthusiastic that it yanks you right out of your seat and takes you to whatever destination it has in mind. The title track of Get Up Get Down, with its drum barrage, twinkling synths, buzzing walls of guitars, takes a while to get to that point, but once it climaxes, the various elements all running over each other in a desperate haze, man, it travels. The music has the polish of any excellent production, but it just breathes, every instrument taking part in a continuous dialogue, all unfolding behind the thoughtful narrative of the lyrics. There’s a wonderfully authentic flavor to the whole affair, the bustling atmosphere developing naturally, and the band reaches an irresistible euphoria as each song dares the next to top it. It’s a melting pot of music straight out the world’s greatest melting pot, and it tastes like so many different things that keeping track of all the layers can be dizzying. But the uninitiated need not worry; this is everybody’s celebration. If my plea for your presence hasn’t taken you into the zone already, then here’s the next step you should take: stop reading. There’s a shiny link right above this review. Click it. Then press the play button, and your journey into this warm, weird, wonderful world will begin.

Love Greatly - 2012 - Live From Our Living Room To Yours

2012-04-05T23:10:00.000+02:00

Folk Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://lovegreatly.bandcamp.com/album/love-greatly-live-from-our-living-room-to-yours

<a href="http://lovegreatly.bandcamp.com/album/love-greatly-live-from-our-living-room-to-yours"

10 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Cradle, When I Wake Up, Subject To Sink

English

Here's a unique live album of folk rock and pop: Take a group of different musicians, sit them down in a single living room together and have them record music together and see what comes out. The end result of such a session is “Love Greatly: Live From Our Living Rooms to Yours”, ten tracks of rather well craft music, a lovely (ahem) surprise given the nature of the project. It's as stripped back as stripped back can be – acoustic guitars and vocals are all you get for the majority of the tracks, and what little mixing there must have been to these tracks doesn't dilute the intimacy of the setting one bit. You can hear occasional vocal and instrumental hick ups when they do occur (which is to say not often). I can almost picture Andrew Benfante grinning from ear to ear as he lets the song drop out as he whispers a response to himself on 'CA', the tone of his voice changes ever so slightly when he picks up again, but it adds a little something extra to that section of the song. Jake Hull plays the crap out of that guitar of his on 'Cradle'. Ian Thorton's voice really pulled me into his two tracks, like a weathered soul letting it all hang out. Brian Million should be doing acoustic sets for arenas full of lighters (or cell phones if you're too hip for that). The living room can't contain him. I think andylion should be probably join him, because he really knocks it out of the park with 'light knight for a dark horse'. I wasn't sure at first, but he comes off more human on 'knight' than 'Find Your Ghost' and it adds to the song's appeal. The Hunt sisters; Jennifer and Jessi round things out with two excellent tracks, of which 'Subject to Sink' is the album's standout track. I will follow these two on any musical journeys they take. I would have liked the harmonies on 'Cradle' to have been more distinguishable though. At least harmonies are what I think I'm hearing. The biggest issue I had with this LP is that the first track has the audience clapping, which is then hastily cut off. I would have preferred that be removed altogether or more of the songs have reactions from the others in the room. Gentle and true, right into your ears.

The Winnebago's - 2011 - The Art Of Mixology

2012-04-02T19:32:00.001+02:00

Stoner Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://thewinnebagos.bandcamp.com/

<a href="http://thewinnebagos.bandcamp.com/"

6 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Hey Fuck You Buddy, Riverside

Impressions

Sometimes the sheer ferocity that a record possesses is enough to overcome any technical shortcomings that record may have. The Winnebago's have stocked up on ferocity like there's a supply shortage and they need the stuff to live. 'The Art of Mixology' is a live record of wall to wall ferociousness and unadulterated stoner rock that's here to be loud and have a good time, just don't get in the way or you'll get run over without a second thought. The guitars are effectively crunchy and distorted sounding, the bass is thick and heavy and (gets some time to shine on “Riverside”), while the drums crash with absolute authority and keep everything running smoothly. I do take issue with wherever this was recorded, it sounds like a small space that doesn't really allow the music to sound as loud and huge as it really should. These songs should destroy all in their wake. One other issue with this is that the vocals do not come through very well. They're just buried by the instruments, as if the singer was singing into a mic down a long hallway. From what I can tell from song to song is that the singer does sound like Lemmy (of Motorhead) with throat shredding howls and a god damn sense of purpose in front of that mic. Check out “Hey, Fuck You Buddy” for the best example on the record. It's odd, the vocals aren't the best and the music seems like its cramped in a small basement, but still manages to be excellent rock. I would love to hear these songs rerecorded so the vocals are more easily discernible and the sound is as ceiling rattlingly huge as the Winnebagos are capable, and as such easier for me to recommend. As it stands, if you're willing to overlook the low quality of the recordings, The Winnebago's are rocking Sheffield to the ground, and you should take notice

Ahem. - 2011 - Adrift EP

2012-03-30T23:23:00.000+02:00

Electronica/ Dreampop

[FOR FREE]

http://ahem1.bandcamp.com/

6 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: A Few More Years, Childhood

English

Adrift EP feels less like a coherent record than a record full with experiments and surprises. And like with all experiments, some work out and others don't. Let's just get the bad out of the way right in the beginning. You simply shouldn't start a record with the most inaccessible song available. Gone/Again isn't really a bad song, but it's also not the most convincing song here either. Most people stop listening when stumbling upon unknown musicians if they don't like the first song, which is sad considering what else Ahem. has to offer. This EP is a lovingly created hymn to the imaginative power within us all, convincing the listener to to lie down, catch a breath and slowly drift away from any overly straining thoughts. Song 2 and 3 are the highlights here for me. The second track A few more years is an amazingly catchy and playful track with some spoken vocals, which I highly recommend everyone to listen to. The follow up Childhood shows that the collaboration with Ellen Siberian-Tiger was definitely a worthwhile experiment for the other musician at work here and I highly recommend checking out her other song samples on Soundcloud. Despite its flaws definitely an experiment worth experiencing.

Nathan Pugh - 2012 - Permanent Marker

2012-03-27T23:41:00.000+02:00

Trip-Hop

[FOR FREE]

http://nathanpugh.bandcamp.com/

12 songs to download
You name the price (min 0,-)
You get the link if you register your email address
Listening recommendations: Night Life, Class

English

That the first track on this album is titled “Filler” may inspire some suspicion in listeners, especially given the fact that the genre Permanent Marker falls under is rife with rehashes of old ideas. Those disillusioned from the start, though, will be rid of those doubts once they hit the play button. Though Nathan Pugh’s bread and butter is right in the wheelhouse of rhythmic, pulsing hip-hop, he imbues his beats with spooky, fun effects and isn’t afraid to divert his attention to his melodies when needed. Tracks like “Night Life” and “Class” exemplify his grasp of balance and atmospherics excellently, as they effortlessly layer trippy, glitch drums over sinister, wailing synths and bone-chilling electronic plinks. The trade-off is that the whole experience doesn’t explode throughout the head so much as it seeps in, and the trek through this nasty terrain is a slower, less galvanizing one as a result. That doesn’t diminish the album’s goals at all, though: Pugh’s music is a cerebral thrill ride once it gets going, and even the slow rise before the peaks is full of wonderful little touches that will have astute listeners in awe. Those who are looking to blow the roof off of the freaking place may be underwhelmed, but those looking for a slightly more subdued thrill have found their soundtrack.

Houdan the Mystic - 2012 - Archer's Jamboree

2012-03-24T17:53:00.002+01:00

Psychedelic Rock

[FOR FREE]

http://houdanthemystic.bandcamp.com

7 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: The Men Who Own Evil Laughs, Cosmonaut Falls

English

Rarely does music require me to turn down the level of bass for fear my subwoofer won't survive the journey, let alone last through the first song! That was the case here, as I was getting a sonically-induced breeze at my feet from the first moments of this record and it was awesome. It's like the music had come to life and Houdan the Mystic was playing a show under my desk! Far out indeed. This might not break a lot of new ground for psychedelic rock music, held notes, echo, reverb, crazy pedal effects, but it does sound really, really good and that's what I want from music. There are flashes of exquisitely technical instrument work on display – lot of it on display behind the skins, with drummer Ethan Johnstone keeping things jazzy and fluid. Tell me drums on 'The Men Who Own Evil Laughs' aren't a brilliant display of drum work. Go ahead and try, I'll wait. Of course, given my opening statement, you'd think the bass came in giant, shattering waves. And on some tracks, you'd be absolutely correct. It too gets to shine like the drums and guitar ('Sleeping or Worse', 'Chasing the Strobe'), but when it's not, it's this monolithic wall that blocks out everything else in its wake. To that end 'Ten Bears' stands out from the rest of the album, in that the guitar/bass effects replace proper riffs to create the sound of going backwards (you know, what TV shows and movies use as a 'rewind' sound... Listen, you'll know what I mean) while the drums continue propelling everything forward. It's trippy in a way psychedelic music doesn't usually try to be, but Houdan makes it work. When there is singing, it's almost always harmonies that bring the music back down to reality a bit, since they aren't awash in filters. Kind of a let down in that regard, but not an egregious error, simply a matter of taste in the end. Gather round all ye unbelievers and bear witness to Houdan the Mystic and his psychedelic wonders!.

Gulls - 2012 - Down the Hatch

2012-03-21T19:14:00.002+01:00

Indie/Surf Pop

[FOR FREE]

http://gullsband.bandcamp.com/

9 songs to download
For free
Direct Download
Listening recommendations: Sleep In The Sun, Wild

English

If you are a regular Wasfuersohr reader, these guys shouldnt be completely new to you, though you might know them better by their main project Magic Man. Magic Man's Real Life Color easily stepped up to be my favourite album last year, so my expectations for a new project from these guys were quite high. Contrary to any expectations I might have had, the sound of Gulls is quite a different affair than Magic Man, which is obvious right from the start. Down the Hatch's albums opener Sleep in the Sun has a very soft and slow pop intro, only to transform into a super fun and driving Indie pop track, reminiscent of the Surfpop music style of Swimming. My initial problem with this record was its lo-fi nature , which gave me a slightly difficult time getting into this record at the beginning, but its hard not to fall for these pure and innocent songs about the most trivial things important to us. If anything, those trivial pleasures are probably the most innocent joy anyone can have, and these songs make a very valid point of how important those moments are to us. So who gives a anything about those songs having a slightly worse quality. They are pure fun and express the fundamental desire to enjoy life. If you didn't get your fair share of sunshine today, take a listen to Gulls' Down the Hatch.