Acoustic

(Dave Matthews, John Mayer, Dashboard Confession)

Born Without Bones: Say Hello

Born Without Bones is a laid back indie power pop band that you'll find hanging around Milford, MA. Say Hello is the first album for the band and it's a compilation that pretty much expands on the power pop/emo rock phase that most bands seemed to be stuck in for awhile. The album features 12 tracks that run the gamut of punk, acoustic pop, and a bit of indie rock. I'm gonna put it out there that if you dislike power pop or anthemic highschool emo rock, then you best stay away. But if you live for this stuff, keep reading and you just might find a gem in this record.

The Colorful Quiet: My World With You EP

The Colorful Quiet is a one-man band manned by Stephen K. Webster. He handles both the guitars and vocals; performing beautiful strip down tracks that are both impressive and endearing. My World With You - EP might be a short 5-track compilation but it's enough to convince any acoustic folk pop lover that this one is worth keeping. The artist has released several compilation under his name since 2001. In fact, this short EP is the first one he ever came out with. Most of the short compilations are offered for free but the full albums are often available for a short (but definitely worth it) price.

Stefano Mocini: A Cat Playing

If you are looking for a soulful, rich, and inspiring instrumental sounds that will help to smooth out your day, then we have something just for you. Stefano Mocini's A Cat Playing is one of the most melodious piano only compilations I have stumbled upon in a long time. With each track outperforming the previous one, A Cat Playing is one of the few albums where pin pointing the favorite song is nearly impossible; even after few long listens. The melodies brilliantly flow and connect each of the tracks; and all this is managed with just a single instrument.

Dylan Pratt: Lifters & Leaners

It's always exciting to stumble upon a record that you know will be a part of your daily music routine for a long while. Dylan Pratt and his album, Lifters & Leaners, is one of those records. The album is a first for the singer/songwriter. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a soft and melodic voice along with beautiful lyrics; the album is the perfect capper after a long hard day at work. It also features quite a few guest musicians helping him complete the songs. Much of the record is composed of sweet, acoustic classic folk. So expect this album to be your perfect companion on dreary days, when all you want to do is cuddle in the comfort of your bed or maybe stay-in and enjoy a quiet evening.

California Condors: Calm Carnivore

The California Condors is not just the name for the largest North American land bird, but also the equivalent of a 3 piece West Coast crew that plays some infectious contemporary indie rock along with a slight 60s/70s touch. These Orange County natives count The Beatles, Willie Nelson and Neil Young among their influences. Indeed their distinctive sound echoes with this influence.

The Dimes: The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry

The Dimes have revamped boring history classes into a pristine musical collection. Composed of Johnny Clay, Pierre Kaiser, Kelly Masigat, Ryan Johnston, Tucker Jackson, Anthony Powell and Matt Farina, this American folk-pop collective from Portland, Oregon has been likened to the old country charm and sixties pop sensibility. After their debut album Silent Generation which is based on old newspaper articles, The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry is another literary experimentation that offers a steady doze of early Boston history.

Giraffe: There Is No Devil

Carrying the moniker, Giraffe for this record, James Gardner releases his second compilation: There is No Devil. The album is a lush collection of folk, country alternative that's perfect for fans of artists like Bon Iver or similar soft folk singers. The songs resonate with acoustic guitars, beautiful singing and a catchy (sometimes odd) melody fit for most folk lovers. It's an album that could serve as a worthy background to a laid back afternoon where you just want some simple but engaging music to keep you company.

You Me and Apollo: Cards with Cheats

For moments when all you need is a sweet voiced singer with his guitar serenading your quiet afternoon; You Me and Apollo should make really good company. The guy behind this sonic ensemble is Brent Cowles. A pastor's son from Fort Collins, Cowles started writing and creating songs at the age of 14. Thanks to an early start, he developed a beautiful sound that resonates with both quiet and upbeat tempos, mesmerizing vocal work and skillful guitars. Simplicity and intrigue are both present in his work, something that makes you want to tune out the world and simply tune in to his songs.

The Willow and The Builder

The Willow & The Builder is an indie folk duo straight from Connecticut. Their music intertwines carefully sculpted melodies with gorgeous lyrics ready to wake up all of the winter spirits from the deep sleep. Released in October 2011, this 8 track self-titled album is filled with mesmerizing sounds of violin, trombone, viola, flute, trumpet, and masterfully sequenced drum additions, that should not be missed by anyone in need for some quality indie intervention!