Valerie

Automaton: Clarions And Banners

Automaton is an interesting collective from Seattle, USA. Clarions and Banners is their second compilation since they formed back in 1998. Initially known as Automaton Adventure Series, they decided to keep the moniker simple and went with just Automaton for their recent releases. Creating a fusion of alternative indie rock with slight touches of noise, the group admits to being heavily influenced by Sonic Youth and Fugazi but they have slowly deviated and discovered their sound. This is a beautiful record that resonates with charm and energy. Take a listen.

Ranger

Ranger is the latest game released by Netherland-based developing outfit, Foppygames. This one is another fun adventure platformer where you get to play a pilot on a reconnaissance mission against hostile and unfriendly aliens. You'll need to navigate yourself through the many doors, looking for the hostages and rescuing them. At the same time, you'll need to defend yourself against the feisty aliens out to get you. This game was created using Blitz 3D. There are also several other freeware games offered by the developer on his site so after you're satisfied with saving all the hostages as well as killing all the alien kidnappers in this one, go ahead and check out the others as well. Cool game that's worth your time.

Jumy: Every day is the First Day

This set is a collection of acoustic folk pop songs from Frenchman, jumy. Every Day is the First Day mixes masterful guitar strumming with southern harmonica and some peppy tune. It reminds me of a quiet summer getaway where you just sit down with friends, sing along and play guitar. Nice relaxing sounds. This the second release from the artist. His first album, de bric et de broc, is also a compilation of folk pop songs played in his beautifully embellished guitar and recorded in his makeshift home studio. The album is available as a free download on Jamendo and licensed under a creative commons license.

Mandate of Heaven: Hun in the Sun

This is the second time these boys from Syracuse, NY are making an appearance here at Frostclick. Their more recent album, The Next Valley Over was featured last July. Hun in the Sun is one of the older Mandate of Heaven albums, but it's nevertheless, still a goodie. The album is laced with beautiful instruments and sweet vibes throughout. Mandate of Heaven is fronted by Greg Pier, who also uses the same moniker for his solo performances once in awhile. The record might be a few years old but it's still a must-listen for those who love progressive rock with a slight retro feel to it. Beautiful album to check out.

John Vanderslice: Green Grow The Rushes

John Vanderslice is an American singer/songwriter that has quite a repertoire. He's been in various bands starting from the 1990s. Ever since he decided to take the solo flight, he's released a great number of albums and singles. Some of which are available for free download, like this one. Green Grow The Rushes is a 6-track mini compilation that's packed with upbeat, whimsical folk pop songs. It's a beautiful record that's a bit more reflective and personal compared to his other works. Since his first solo debut, Mass Suicide Occult Figurines, where he gained some attention for one single, Bill Gates Must Die; the singer has moved on to other topics. He still has that spark though. His songs are infused with a certain enigma that most musicians simply cannot find. Take a listen.

Star Opus: Episode I “Pathway to the Pollux”

Dubbed as the "real mother of all retro games," Star Opus I takes retro shooting to a whole new level. The game induces some hardcore Asteroids style of gameplay along with some lovely, lovely tunes to go along with it. Star Opus I is essentially a one-man project. The first episode is currently released as a freeware and so will Episode II, which is currently under construction. However, it seems to be set for a commercial release later on. Let's just hope this doesn't come soon enough. For the meantime, grab this download from their website or simply hit the Download Game link. It's perfect if you just want to get away for awhile, head to space and shoot some asteroids.

Silver Rocket: Silver Rocket

Italian band Silver Rocket is making plenty of good noise in the indie music scene. Ever since releasing their five song self-titled EP last November 2010, the three-piece crew has been gaining plenty of interest. Creating a punk and alternative concoction that is catchy and enjoyable; this 26 minute EP is released under German netlabel, afmusic , and offered absolutely free. Enjoy a great blend of garage rock with heartstopping beats, dirty guitars and straight out rock and roll. You can grab the download here by hitting the Download Album link or the image. You can also get it from the afmusic website. It's not earth-shattering but it's certainly worth it.

PhotoRocket

You might think that PhotoRocket is just another photosharing program but there's actually quite a few features you might find charming in this cool app. Apart from the fact that it's offered absolutely free, there are a couple of things that makes this one slightly different from all the rest. Aiming to be the easiest program you'll ever use when it comes to photosharing, PhotoRocket actually works great. It lets users easily share photos without much hassle. It provides an easy to use interface that's simple to navigate even for non-techie users. Give the program a try. This might be the photosharing program you've been waiting for.

Grief

Grief is like navigating through Dante's Divine Comedy minus the gore. This cool puzzle platformer sees you exploring the mind of a young girl who is seeking to find some clarity and answers. The game is an interesting take on what goes on in the mind of the young protagonist. It features 20 levels of cool puzzles that will certainly please any gamer. Grief was created by Magnesium Ninja Studios, a Richmond, BC indie game development studio. They've released countless other indie games throughout years and Grief is their most recent one. Check out the game. It won't disappoint.