Valerie

The Fumes: Unhandled Exception

Remember Blues Clues and that striped sweater wearing guy named, Steve? Well, this isn't him (although he's actually a musician too) but I imagine, The Fumes, could have easily played the part of the guitar wielding Steve in the show. One listen to Unhandled Exception and you'll probably see/hear it too. This guy churns out acoustic folk pop cuts that immediately made me picture children sitting around on a park with the singer at the center and singing along to his music. Now, this can either be good or bad depending on your taste, but personally some songs in this acoustic folk pop record are worth a listen.

Ichi (Jay Van Hutten)

Single button games should be easy, right? Besides, pressing one button to play and defeat the entire game can't be that hard. However, Ichi might just prove this theory wrong. The game is a one-button puzzler from Jay Van Hutten and it's main premise is simple. All you have to do is collect the different yellow colored circles or balls inside a maze. This might seem like a no-brainer and it is, until you get to the higher levels and realize just how complicated it can get. Ichi comes with a sketch-like graphics reminiscent of Crayon Physics as well as a nice soundtrack provided by Michiel Nijhof.

Derek Clegg: Across Town

Making his 5th appearance here at the Frostclick blog, Derek Clegg is back with his sixth official release. Across Town is a 12-track record from the master of acoustic folk pop. Like most of his previous albums, it resonates with a cozy feel that makes you think of heartfelt folk pop songs you can easily play on your guitar on a lazy afternoon. With several great quality compilations in tow, it's hard to believe that Derek remains independent. A one-man band manning the songwriting, recording, and producing of his records; the guy is one tough act to follow. Some of his previous releases include It Seems As Though, Beautiful World, Here Comes Your Fate, Quick Duck and KJC.

Candy Train

If you were into PopCap games back then, then you must have remembered Candy Train at some point. This simple but entertaining game was a staple on the PopCap roster. In fact, it was even available as a flash game on their website. Fast forward to now and this addictive game is available as a free download for the iPhone and iPad. The game was released under PopCap's "indie label," 4th & Battery where they promised to deliver edgier and experimental games. I'm not so sure if you can call Candy Train edgy or experimental but one thing's for sure, it definitely has the charm of a PopCap title: making you want to do nothing but keep playing.

K. Sparks’ Diagnosis: Success

After having a successful run with his Trilogy mixtapes, K. Sparks is back with his latest project Diagnosis: Success. This time around, Sparks tackles and narrates his experiences in trying to achieve his dream of success. Filled with 17 tracks and quite a handful of guest appearances by producers as well as fellow rappers , the compilation is a real treat for hip hop lovers all over. The songs are fresh and carry that signature melodic rhythm with spot-on lyrics that the artist has excelled in for so long. Of course, there's a touch of something new as well. A great album that's perfect for welcoming both old fans and new fans to the fold.

Portal: No Escape

Valve has been getting plenty of great fan film renditions in honor of their games lately. First there was Escape from City 17, a short fan film created by The Purchase Brothers based on Half Life 2. This time around, it's Valve's Portal video game that's getting the treatment. Portal: No Escape is a short film directed by Dan Trachtenberg. Although he's been working on the project for a year and half, it's only in August of this year that he was able to release it. The movie focuses on what is believed to be the character of Chell (Danielle Rayne) as she wakes up and discovers that she's a prisoner. With no memory, she eventually discovers the Portal gun and uses it to escape.

Bomb The Music Industry!: Vacation

Known not just for their upbeat indie rock offerings but also for their ethos, Bomb The Music Industry! is back with their latest record - Vacation. Abbreviated as BTMI!, the group has been together for some time. They've released several records and are known to be firm believers of distributing their own music. Following their DIY credo, the guys distribute their music for free and are known to perform only for a general audience while not charging more than $10 for the ticket price. With their mix of punk, pop and fun indie rock; Vacation is impressing both fans and new listeners alike. Take a listen.

HomeBank

When it comes to money, most of us have trouble budgeting and keeping track of our expenses. If you find yourself always on the short end when bills start piling up, then you might want to try out HomeBank. This personal accounting software is perfect for anybody who wants to have a better idea where all their expenses go every single month. Packed with tons of helpful features, the program can easily collate the info you have and help you map out where each cent is spent. Moreover, thanks to a user-friendly interface, even those that haven't tried out an accounting software before will find this a very helpful tool to have at their disposal.

Stub Horn: Pure Sappiness

An interesting alternative grunge rock band, Stub Horn releases their first foray into the music business with Pure Sappiness. Contrary to their album title, the group isn't exactly sappy about their music. They incorporate a blend of punk, alternative and a slight tinge of indie, to create their own music. Switching between loud rock to a mid-tempo sound, the group manages to showcase their love for a louder type of sound. Their album is offered as a free download on Jamendo and licensed under creative commons. Give it a try.