Alternative Rock

(Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam)

Farkus: Naked Eye Astronomy

Appearing for the second time here in Frostclick is the Illinois alternative melodic rock band, Farkus. They first graced the pages of the blog with their debut album, Thought You Should Know. After receiving solid feedback and polishing their sound even further, the quartet is back with a fresh set of tracks that they're offering for free download right here on Frosclick. Naked Eye Astronomy is a set of 8 tracks that echo the band's characteristic melodic altrock sound. Their sound is more polished compared to their debut record but it still resonates with that hardcore rock and roll feel along with some well-put together lyrics. Expect prolonged guitar riffs, heavy drumming and some melodic rhythm to grace your ears as you listen to this one.

Beware Wolf: Tales

Tales is a short 4-track EP from a trio of lads from West Yorkshire, England. Creating a flurry of indie math rock in a span of more or less 15 minutes, the band's debut is laden with some fun and catchy tunes worth taking note of. Made up of Tom, Liam and Sean; Beware Wolf strays away from hiding underneath instruments and instead cleverly mixes varying tempo, beats and smart lyrics to round up their cuts. It's this eclectic side coupled with the bands pop sensibilities that make each song in this record quite enjoyable.

Dear Ale: Dear Ale

Dear Ale...'s self titled album employs a sound that will rock your socks off. The musical duo was formed in early 2009 when singer/songwriter Arlo Cook teamed up with Melbourne drummer Adrian Van Bloom. Dear Ale's music employs a unique blend of acoustic and rock with influences from Colin Hay, Ben Gibbard, Elliot Smith and Paul Dempsey. Their tracks exudes raw energy, fun and a lot of good vibes.

Thin White Lines: The Silent Voices EP

Fancy some alternative punk rock music? You can get your dose with Thin White Lines' latest release, The Silent Voices. The album came about after these Aussie natives got a little bit weary of the music they were making. They wanted something louder and edgier with a more punk rock feel, hence, they came up with this brand new explosive sound. This record is the band's debut EP. It comes hooked with 5 original singles which were all recorded in a matter of 2 days, mastered by the band members and then released back in February 2011.

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.

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.

The Slizzies: Slizzies Going Steady

The Slizzies came about on a whim. When they first got together, only one of the members had actually played an instrument in their lifetime. Despite this complete handicap, that didn't stop the guys from agreeing to form a band. The succeeding times wasn't easy. From gathering for band practice, to actually learning to play for much of the group and of course, exiting band members; it was certainly a joyride. In the end, the succeeding members actually managed to record a couple of original tracks in true diy fashion. These tracks were recorded from various live performances and rough studio sessions. Hence, don't expect awesome quality but do expect some great punk tracks coming your way.

Moongardening Inc.: A Sky Full Of Killer Whales

Moongardening Inc. might have an unusual band name as well as an album title, but their music manages to stand out and impress. Creating a solid fusion of pop, jazz, blues and a whole lot in between; A Sky Full of Killer Whales exudes a certain charm. Only downside is that there's hardly anything about the band online except what's written on their BandCamp page and sparse reviews here and there. Nevertheless, their music can easily take front and center without much background info about them.