Alternative Rock

(Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam)

Secret Knives’ Affection

New Zealand based record label, A Low Hum, presents this cool, soothing indie pop rock feast. The Secret Knives is a quartet that's led by self-confessed perfectionist, Ash Smith. The band creates wonderfully soothing tracks that include nervous but beautiful vocals, perfect harmonies and awesome atmosphere. Affection is the group's latest record. According to Smith, the sound is a lot like their debut EP (The Wolves) only "...more layered and there’s more diversity amongst the tracks. There are some bits that sound kind of like Slowdive, or maybe Ride...) The record compiles 11 cuts that showcases shoegazer guitar soundscapes. A compilation filled with gorgeous catchy melodies and dreamy, swirling indie pop.

The Shark Bubbles: Necktie Troublespot

Call it noise rock, psychedelic electronic dance pop or indie spacerock, whatever it is, Necktie Troublespot by The Shark Bubbles is, well, something else. This German band's music has been likened to those of great rockers The Velvet Underground, and it's not just the Nico-esque female vocals we're talking about. Necktie Troublespot is an eclectic album filled with uncharacteristic song arrangements, diverse instrument work and music that appeals to your senses.

Teleflorists: Full

The Teleflorists are as shoegazer rock n' rollers as they come. Released a couple of years back, this 2008 EP contains 5 tracks that are decidedly alternative post indie noise nowave. Although the quality of the live recording can easily be dismissed as unimpressive, this recording does contain several tracks to love and like. Full is an album that any noise shoegaze punk rocker will enjoy playing loud and proud.

The State Lottery: Cities We’re Not From

If straight up punk rock is what you like, you'll enjoy The State Lottery's Cities We're Not From. Fusing together the basic elements of punk with their own musical ethos, this album creates an exciting brand of matured punk rock. The tracks deal with growing up, experiencing new things and eventually moving on. From a traditional punk sound to melodic emo punk, the compilation easily makes these songs worth downloading.

Absent Feet: Soonrise

Relative newcomers, Absent Feet, has come out with their 5 track short album, Soonrise, through Jamendo. The album is filled with pop rock tracks that resound with slightly alternative pop vocals. Though they might look like the newest boyband on the block, the group's first foray into the indie music scene is actually worth checking out. Definitely an album that won't disappoint pop rockers out there.

The Night Terrors: Nasty

Hauntingly beautiful 4 track EP that's offered absolutely free. If you are a big fan of alternative indie Brit rock and equally love anything about the dark side, then this is a great EP to have. These 4 tracks from The Night Terrors will definitely send chills down your spine with its upbeat rockish tempo and hipster vibe. These Northern Londoners definitely know how to give out a good scare as well as great music to anyone that's up for a bit of good time.

Maria Rodes: Sin Tecnica (Without Art)

Spanish singer and songwriter, Maria Rodes, has released her latest album, Sin Tecnica. Now, I know that you might not want to listen to an album where English isn't the main language, but trust me, this is a worthy album. Maria Rodes creates folkpop indie acoustic tracks with a slightly alternative edge. Her voice is beautiful and her compositions and melodies are very pretty. Her tracks masquerade in simplicity yet are very rich and diverse.

John Q: Sunrise

John Q is not a single person but instead a collective of musicians who enjoy playing alternative pop rock and penning tunes that focus on songwriting and storytelling. With Sunrise, the group showcases what they are best at, creating alternative mellow tracks that people can relate to. Each cut on the album narrates a special story that helps listeners feel good and reflect on the lyrics. It's an album filled with easy listening tracks that are worth listening to.

Deied: Formation of chaos

Deied is a German electronic duo composed of n1n0 and din-tah aeon. (Don't ask me how to pronounce those.) The duo is set on creating some of the darkest and coolest industrial, electronic sound there is. According to their website, this is the duo's 11th collaboration, although there are only 7 albums available in Jamendo as well as their official website that's up for free download. Formation of Chaos is filled with 10 dark electronic tracks that are often infused with melodic vocal work and layers of instruments. Basically, it's an album that combines a whole lot of synth, dark, symphonic musical elements that makes you feel as if you're moving through the deep dark woods under a full moon sky.