Alternative Rock

(Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam)

Tsars: Whispers EP

Fairly new in the indie music world, Tsars only got together early this year. Considering the short time, the guys have managed to release two compilations. Whispers EP is their first official debut and contains 6 tracks bordering on indie alternative to a floaty Brit hipster sound. Their sound is reminiscent of lazy hipster rock and makes me think of The Cribs only more melancholic. Made up of Alexi Mcnulty Bakas (Vocals/ Guitar), Corey Eyres (Guitar/ B.Vocals), Ross Powley (Bass/ B.Vocals) and Lawrence Artitzone (Drums/ B.Vocals.) They've been playing around together in different bands before deciding to form this one.

Art Boys Collection: Stoned Wall

If you mix progressive rock with folk and psychedelia, you'll get the sound of the Art Boys Collection. This Austrian band has a penchant for infusing their music with dreamy acoustic guitars, wonderful vocal harmonies, some serious instrument work and (what was current then but now considered) retro vibe. It's like finding an old vinyl from the days gone by and popping it into your player. The nostalgia, the sound and aesthetics comes rushing in and sweeps you away. Stoned Wall is the one and only LP from this band. It contains all 12-tracks released by the band back in the 70s. Their actual vinyl record is quite rare and has become a collector's item among avid enthusiasts.

To Disappear: Into E.P.

A rough, melodic, indie alternative rock album; this Intro E.P. by To Disappear certainly makes a statement. The band resonates with a Joy Division/ The Cure vibe that transports you back in time. Hailing from Canada, the group is composed of Ben Sharples, Xavier Martinez Galiana, Jeremy Royal, and Scott Barrow. All of the members shared a common love for 90s alternative rock and Morrissey-esque, melancholic pop and from there the band was born. Intro E.P. was recorded at a home studio and is the first official demo for the band. It's a beautiful mix of haunting vocals, shoegaze rock and pop melancholia.

Asalto Al Parque Zoologico: Asalto Al Parque Zoologico EP

Asalto Al Parque Zoologico EP is the self titled release from relative newcomers, Asalto Al Parque Zoologico. This eclectic noise pop electronic band will certainly impress if you love music like this. The songs are interesting on their own but when coupled with sweet feminine vocals and a cool beat; you have a great bunch of tracks worth checking out. This Argentinian band first hit the waves back in 2008 and since then have easily climbed onto the music ladder in their native country. This 5 track EP was a result of recording, mixing, editing and performing for over a year. It's a solid compilation that's definitely worth listening to.

Atomic Horsebox: Sound Like

Atomic Horsebox is the pet project of German musician, Phil Noonan. Noonan is no stranger to the music industry. He can be considered a veteran, having been part of several bands like The Winchesters, Crystal Kitchen, and The Probability of the Impossible just to name a few. Sound Like is an 11 track record from the singer. It features an indie pop rock sound that's made even more special thanks to the artist's excellent rockish vocals. It's not just the rhythm or beat that makes this special, Noonan also has a knack for incorporating quirky lyrics to his songs. Thanks to this, it becomes even more entertaining to listen to.

Equals Conquest: Rummager

With such a big sound, you would think that Equals Conquest was at least a 3 or 4 man band. The fact is, there's only two of them hitting all the instruments, writing, singing and mixing the tracks. The band is made up of I.m.i.x. Shish and Mike Mollura both former members of the Reading, PA hardcore punk band, Afterglow. What initially started as a solo effort for I.m.i.x. Shish, the band quickly become a collaboration; resulting in a sonic soundscape of noise, rock and a whole hodge podge of sound. If you enjoy unusual music, ones that are a bit difficult to classify as belonging to any particular genre; then this might be the album for you. Give it a try.

Aw-1: Demo Days (Jours de Démo)

Demo Days is an indie pop alternative album that you might want to check out. There's hardly anything about these guys online but if you let the music speak for itself; they're definitely worth your time. Creating an indie pop sound, Aw-1 collects 12 tracks in their record that range from upbeat, danceable tempos to indie love songs that you can sing to your partner as you enjoy a quiet moment together. This diversity makes the album nice and perfect for all types of mood you might find yourself in. Grab the download by hitting the link to the left.

The Matt Kurz One: Debt Sounds

One man band, Matt Kurz, knows how keep the drums on a steady beat, the guitars wailing and the bass guitar slappin'. He also knows how to add his signature growl and keep everything interesting. Perhaps the biggest draw is that this guy can actually play all these instruments at once! Debt Sounds is the first album from this multi-intrumentalist/one-man-band who dubs himself, The Matt Kurz One. It's a mix of old school rock and roll with some upbeat indie hipster feel. Each track is quite catchy, making you want to head bob or tap your feet. The record is available as a free download at Quote Unquote Records and it's licensed under creative commons. Give it a listen.

Lenin/McCarthy: ART

If the name didn't capture your attention first, then maybe their music will make a better impression. Lenin/McCarthy and their latest record, titled ART; combine amusing song titles with equally entertaining sounds. Listening to the band is like a form of release. There's the hardcore guitar licks, the loud drumming, the slightly low key, yet growly vocals and the overall catchiness of the tracks. It's like partying and rocking out with your favorite band while they play one feet away from you in a cramped room. These OZ natives are sure to give you enough of a good time that you'll be wondering when again will you be stuck in a tight, cramped room with a rock band.