Valerie

The Velvet Chameleon: Clusterfunk

Promising to create several EP releases for 2011 and 2012, The Velvet Chameleon is holding its side of the bargain and delivers amazing EPs one after another. Clusterfunk was released late 2011 and features 5 tracks that echo influences from Radiohead and various other bands. Spearheaded by Adarsh Fernando, the band can easily impresses with their upbeat alternative pop. The EP is available as a free download and licensed under Creative Commons.

Par-City: Civilized Sessions Vol. 1

Par-City is a Bronx rap group that knows a thing or two about creating good quality hip hop music. Formed back in 2009, the three piece crew is made up of Willy Dope, Anti, and GiF the Great. The three have been rapping together since 2003 although it wasn't until later on when they established themselves as an actual group. Civilized Sessions Vol. 1 is the group's latest release and is composed of various samples as well as great beats. So far, it has garnered more than 70,000 downloads and have been featured in various prints and media avenues such as Source, Vibe and HotNewHipHop to name a few.

Little Kid: Logic Songs

Logic Songs seems made for times in your life when you're feeling a little reflective; moments when you'd rather watch the morning sun or enjoy some quiet time for yourself. Little Kid is actually the moniker for Ontario-based musician, Kenny Boothby. He has released several records and demos under this name; defining his sound by incorporating subdued guitars, lo-fi recording as well as dreamy melodies. Apart from releasing the record for free digitally, there were also limited edition cassette tapes sold by the artist. Covers for both editions were handcrafted from two old books he found at the Salvation Army.

It Happened Here: 001 EP

Almost 4 years old, this Chester band first began their musical journey in August 2009. After all these years, 001 EP is the very first attempt at creating a compilation for the band. The four-track EP contains a fusion of alternative rock with a slight indie post punk vibe. Occasionally, they infuse their songs with a psychedelic feel for good measure. Even though this may seem a little too late in the game, It Happened Here wasn't exactly sitting idly throughout those four years. They, in fact, promoted themselves through live performances; playing and having regular gigs in various venues in and around Liverpool.

Jess Penner: Growing in the Cold

Jess Penner is a talented singer/songwriter that has been winning raves for her beautiful voice and sound. Based in LA, Growing in the Cold is the singer's latest compilation. It follows the successful release of her debut album, Love, Love, Love. Since her initial offering, her music has been featured on various TV shows, movies as well as commercial campaigns. Armed with a guitar and her sweet, sometimes quirky vocals; her music is lighthearted and filled with great melody that easily charms.

Eric & Magill: All Those I Know

Eric & Magill is Eric Osterman and Ryan Weber. Joined by talented musicians, they created a compilation filled with10 beautiful folk electronic pop music that's designed to impress and titillate your ears. Both musicians have played music together and in separate bands; they were both part of shoegaze rock act, Camden. Weber has also been in several bands including emo/indie pop group, The Promise Ring and Decibully. All Those I Know is a collaboration between two friends/talented musicians. It took shape when they were miles apart, but the result sounds seamless and brilliant.

Talk To Angels: Enemies Closer EP

Talk To Angels may not be a household name but the four-piece crew have been steadily improving their craft and gaining a steady audience over the years. Made up of Craig Kaye - vocals/guitar, Mickey Dale - keyboards/guitar, Lee Waud - bass and Danny Cookson - Drums; the band formed after meeting at a house party and agreeing to clean out Mickey's garage in exchange for one-week use of his studio. Something sparked during the sessions and they eventually formed into a band. Enemies Closer EP is a first for them and it's filled with alternative pop rock goodies that might pique your interest.

Of Light & Shadow

In the indie gaming world, it's quite rare to find a commercial-level game being offered for free. Of Light & Shadow is one great example of this. Created by a group of Austrian students, the gang proves time and again that sometimes all you need is creativity and dedication to create a game that's on par with some of the more successful commercial releases out there. This little 3D puzzle game involves two characters, Dr. Shadow and Mr. Light . As the name suggests, one can only move in light while the other in darkness.

iBooks Author

Fancy yourself a writer or author? If you own a Mac then chances are, the company just made it easier for you to create your own digital book. iBooks Author is a simple and easy to use program for Mac that helps writers put together their own book. Even though almost anyone can use it, the program is specifically geared towards educators or textbook makers who might be interested in creating their own interactive manuals for class or projects.