Valerie

One-Eyed Doll: Dirty

Recorded in vintage gear, One-Eye Doll's record, Dirty is as gritty, loud and special just like any vintage instrument. It's a loud and biting record that showcases frontwoman Kimberly Freeman's cold, at times sweet vocals. Doused in a gloomy, dark atmosphere, it brings solid metal, punk and even a bit of blues rock in tow. Thanks to this combination, the band expertly delivers tracks that are catchy, melodic and can easily grab your attention.

Cloudkicker: Beacons

Okay, Cloudkicker officially has my vote for being one of the sickest metal bands offering music for free online. Even more impressive perhaps is the fact that there's only one guy manning all the luscious mayhem you hear when you hit the play button. Ben Sharp, aka Cloudkicker, has been winning praises and reviews from artists and enthusiasts everywhere thanks to his consistent, enjoyable and innovative sound. Beacons is his second album and was released a couple of years ago in 2010. Featuring 10 loud instrumental progressive rock tracks, you'll find the record as a good distraction you'll want to entertain for a long time.

Poor Remy: Still Sleeping EP

When it comes to Poor Remy, you can expect to hear a lot of two things, harmonicas as well as harmonies. The trio of Adrian, Andrew and Kenneth fuse together a collection of folky instruments and gang vocals to create a frenetic yet surprisingly soothing energy in their music. Harnessing a beautiful folk and bluegrass sound, you'll get plenty of fun and unexpected rhythms on this short EP.

Cult Classic Records Present: Friends and Family

One of the newest kids on the block, Cult Classic Record is an online netlabel that aims to share and promote new talent in the world of music. Mainly focusing on trip hop, jazz and ambient beats, the label has quite a few artists under their roster. Friends and Family is an attempt to compile some of the best tracks from these musicians, and showcase what they have to offer in just one place. It's offered absolutely free over BandCamp and is an awesome way to discover new artists in the genre.

Les Vinyl: Thinking Overthinking

Les Vinyl is a band you turn to for some fun alternative indie rock. Hailing from Staten Island, New York; the group likes to keep things simple with a traditional band setup. The quartet delivers a sound that's every part familiar indie rock yet with beautiful catchy hooks and a quirky touch. It's this mixture of simplicity and eccentricity that makes the band a worthy act to watch out for. ThinkingOverThinking is their latest effort and features music that's reminiscent of early Weezer (including the cheeky lyrics.)

H.W. – Wall Papered Exit Wounds

Despite being new to the scene, young rapper, Hazardous Wastes or H.W. is already getting praises for his sound. It's not just the catchy music he creates but the fact that he's got compelling and interesting lyrics to match. Self described as "the Ben Folds of this rap shit," this Boston-based emcee offers 8 tracks from his latest compilation, Wall Papered Exit Wounds. The introspective rapper shares his insights about recovering from heartbreak as well as discussing general questions about how things turned out the way they did.

The Symphony of Science: Collector’s Edition

Occasionally, you'll come across really unusual albums online that you can't help but be fascinated with them. The Symphony of Science is one of these records. Taking a clue from the title alone, you can tell it's gonna be a geeky and quirky ride. The idea behind the record is to bring "scientific knowledge and philosophy to the public, in a novel way." Spearheaded by John D. Boswell, he initially released the experimental collaboration on video. Combining lectures and essays with a mix of electronic melodies, he created a unique record that's not only enjoyable but also quite enlightening.

The Big Steal: Evan Williams Nights

Evan Williams Nights is the debut compilation for Middle England band, The Big Steal. The entire album is self-produced and was written over a certain period when the artist was calling Virginia his home. Comprising of songs that tackle various topics like "running, self-loathing and the magic of American lawn games;" the album is a 10-track record that has its merits. With carefree alternative pop punk tracks, you'll find the album good company for days you just want to lounge around and enjoy the sun.

Tiara Wiles: RE:Dux

Tiara Wiles has been around the scene for quite a while. Since 2008, she's released a record for almost every year and she's showing no sign of stopping just yet. Raised by parents who love music as well, Tiara has explored and experimented with her music. Ever since she first released her debut EP, A Rosenberg Oddisee back in 2008, her music has evolved to include a variety of genres. For her latest effort, Re: Dux, her sound is a bit more dance/electro pop oriented yet it still bears that signature Tiara touch.