Alternative Pop

(live, REM, Sheryl Crow)

Ralph Buckley: Morning Star

Drunk, quirky and full of good old freak folk, indie, pop rock music. Morning Star by Ralph Buckley is one album you'll want to brace yourselves for. If you think that the cover art is a bit odd, it's actually quite fitting. The record is filled with weird and unexpected lyrics coupled with acoustic guitars and enchanting atmospheres. Just one, out of several albums released for free under creative commons; this is truly one compilation worth checking out.

Kyle Cox: To All My Old Friends

To All My Old Friends from Kyle Cox is a compilation of songs that center on emotions or events that often trip us in life. The album compiles six folk pop tracks that showcase a raw honesty both lyrically and melodically; letting you enjoy tracks that are not only comforting but also very expressive. Simple, melancholic yet lyrically and melodically rich, this is what you can expect from the entire album.

The Very Sexuals: Post Apocalyptic Love

The Very Sexuals have generated quite a buzz in the indie music scene by releasing their awesome melodic, folk pop infused albums. Along with their sexy name, this Dutch group creates some of the most sensual and interesting cuts around.

Post Apocalyptic Love contains some of the most interesting indie pop tracks around. Certainly an album worth playing in your iPod for a good long while.

The Feelds: We are no heros

The Feelds is actually a father and daughter duo that love to create music. For this tandem, what matters is their love for music and even though there are off beats here and there, what's important is their passion for their craft. We are no Heros (sic) is a beautiful and relaxing pop rock compilation that brings to mind indie pop sensation, Belle and Sebastian. A calming, melody filled album that's worth listening to.

Cologne Commons 05: Compilation

Here's another cool compilation from Cologne Commons that you can sink your teeth into. Cologne Commons Compilation 05 is a mix of indie pop, electronic ambient sounds that carefully showcases some of the best netlabel acts Germany has to offer. This awesome festival is a great place where businesses, artists, musicians and netlabels gather to celebrate everything and anything creative commons represents.

Dylan Rodrigue: Stars and Scars EP

Known for his vocal work on indie rock trio, The Shreds, Dylan Rodrigue tries his hand on solo work. Stars and Scars EP is a 4 track compilation filled with the characteristic sweet voice of Rodgue, coupled with indie folk guitar work and a slight rockish feel. The album showcases Rodigue's capability as a solo artist and features tracks ranging from indie rock to moody, quiet folk music. Perfect music for an afternoon escape.

MARCH: Démo juin 2010

Catchy indie pop rock with a streak of bitterness. Composed of Swiss natives, Xavier on vocals; Jerome and Seymour on guitars; Pierre-Yves on bass; and Vincent; March makes their debut with a demo that includes three upbeat indie pop rock tracks. Filled with bitter, moody lyrics along with a nice blend of acoustic electronic sound; this demo from March deserves 25 minutes or more of your time.

Jay Bennett: Kicking at the Perfumed Air

Talented singer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and band member, Jay Bennett, presents us with his final work, Kicking at the Perfumed Air. This new album (released posthumously by his family after his untimely death in May 2009) is a collection of 11 beautiful, somber, melodic tracks, released according to Bennett's own production notes and preference. It is a raw and emotionally charged compilation that is endearing even to those who are not familiar with Bennett's work. Best known for his contributions in twice Grammy nominated band, Wilco, Bennett has become a respected and well-known musician in his own right. Releasing five albums in total after leaving the band in 2001 as well as contributing to various albums from other artists; he has solidified himself as a musician that is truly worth respecting and listening to.

Sean Wright: BROKEN

Indie folk tracks from the crusader of free, legal music. Sean Wright is what you would call a constant advocate of the free music parade. The talented singer/songwriter and record producer has been a staple presence in the free music scene. Since 2007, he's been releasing one album a month and so far, he's still going strong. Almost his entire discography can be downloaded for free on sites like Jamendo. He has remained a constant presence on the online music scene and was also hailed by NME as a leading DIY artist.