Valerie

The Stalactites: Dark Matters

If you're looking to get your progressive rock fix, The Stalactites' Dark Matters could help you in this department. Made up of Johnny B. (guitar), Rudy Hellio (piano, guitar, programming), and Sophie Hebbelynck (violin), The Stalactites is actually a virtual band; making use of the internet and sending each other recorded files from miles away. Dark Matters is the second compilation for the group. It was released back in August 2011. Don't expect crazy progressive riffs in here though, the album dwells more on the atmospheric/ambient side, combining hazy guitars with moody violin work and great programming.

Tap: Im Different

The Great Society Media Group is a company that serves as a "promotional vehicle for local record labels in NC." CEO & Founder, Tap (Terry Perry) makes his mark by showcasing his unique blend of sound by releasing this latest effort. Combining a variety of genres, Im Different is an interesting mix of sounds and beats. On one part it's classified as typical hip hop and r&b while on the other, you'll find electronic, acoustic and even jazz influences surrounding the record.

Jazz Funeral: Jazz Funeral

Lifting their name from a term used in traditional New Orleans funerals where music is played, Jazz Funeral is a pop rock band that entertains as much as they mystify. Well, to be exact, Jazz Funeral is simply singer-songwriter, self-proclaimed philosopher and avid drinker, Paul Adler. Essentially rock with a sometimes gritty pop punk (even emo) sound, the album is a nice introduction to the singer's sound. This is a debut compilation for the singer and it seems like much of his philosophy and lifestyle is embedded in the tracks.

Republic of Lights: Go Rococo

After receiving a huge amount of praise and positive reviews for their album as well as live performances, Republic of Light seems to have had a good start on their musical journey. These Chicago natives created quite a bit of noise in the indie music world with their album Go Rococo. The crew is composed of Alan on vocals, Brian on guitars, Greg on keyboards and Rosie on guitars. Combining a flurry of indie pop, new wave, great lyrics and tons of catchy rhythm; the band is easily likable while the record is a great go-to album if you want something to keep your energy up and bouncing.

Julio y Agosto: Julio y Agosto

One of my favorite BandCamp finds as of late, Julio y Agosto, is a quaint Spanish group who create lovely acoustic folk music. They first started back in 2006; creating beautiful and soothing music that makes you think of woodland forests or some faraway land where fairies and all sorts of wonderful creatures exist. This self-titled record was released last October 2011 and it definitely has the capacity to mesmerize audiences with its simple yet melodic cuts. They combine quirkiness and humor in their songs, which are accompanied by a host of instruments like the violin, trombone, bass, guitars, percussions and voice.

Tussie-Mussie: From Rough to Calm Seas

Claiming to write songs about girls, this indie pop group only lists "Jon" (Jon Torres) as its member. I guess good music doesn't really require much names as the band seems to have a knack for creating catchy indie folk pop cuts. From Rough to Calm Seas is the artists' latest effort. It's a short 4-track EP that's filled with pop music with a hint of surfer sound. Weezer, Pavement and The Beach Boys are some of the bands that have influenced their sound. Indeed, you'll hear this feel-good, sometimes quirky sound that most of the bands mentioned above are known for.

Martina Matwiejczuk: Extended Play

You won't find much about Martina Matwiejczuk online. Save for the few links on her Facebook Page, there's hardly any info about the singer herself. Even though she remains a mysterious figure in the music scene, her sound might just pluck her out of this obscurity soon enough. This Polish singer has a knack for creating catchy pop and R&B laced tracks that seems destined to receive good airplay. Her EP, Extended Play is a first for her. It comes with 5 feel-good cuts ready to make you a convert to her music.

Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler (Traveler’s Diary): The Traveler and The King

Don't be fooled by the long and complicated looking name, The Traveler and The King is actually a pretty lovely record for many jazz alternative folk lovers out there. Originally calling themselves, Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler, the band now goes by the easier to pronounce name, Traveler's Diary. This is a debut record for the band. It was released in BandCamp on December 2010 and features a whole range of sounds. You can expect some acoustic percussions, a slight touch of prog, jazz and even folk sprinkled on here.