Alternative

The City Streets: The Jazz Age

Don't be fooled by the album title, The Jazz Age, it isn't filled with sweet, soulful jazz music. Instead, what you'll get is a melancholic (sometimes energetic) compilation of alternative pop rock. The album is actually an open book of sorts for member, Rick Reid, as the album chronicles and narrates some of the worst times that has happened in his life. This is the third self-released album from the trio. Released under Clamour Records, it is laced with a beautiful story line about a love affair that didn't pan out and the hurt, frustration, anger and various emotions that come crashing in afterward.

Magnetic Memory: Magnetic Memory EP

After years of working together on their music, four-piece Springfield, MO natives Magnetic Memory are finally ready to share the fruit of their hard work. This self-titled EP is their first compilation. Featuring 8-indie fun lovin' tracks; each song is reflective of the band's willingness to take their time as they explore and create plenty of musical reflection as well as lyrical innovation on the record. Made up of Phil Davis, Tony DeLuca, Adam Wright and Cody Lane; they consider bands like Modest Mouse, Wolf Parade and Arcade Fire as among their influences.

All Else Fails: Ruins Punk For Everyone

Metal punk group, All Else Fails is a four piece crew that hails from Toronto, Canada. Handing out their latest energy-filled album absolutely free, the band is making sure that their fans get only the best. Ruins Punk for Everyone is a cover album that sees the band taking 9 of their favorite tracks and performing it their own way. This is the third release for the band, their first album, Against the Darkening Sky was released back in 2009. Their follow-up record, The Oracle , What Was, Is, and Could Have Been, came two years after. Both albums are available for purchase at BandCamp.

One-Eyed Doll: Dirty

Recorded in vintage gear, One-Eye Doll's record, Dirty is as gritty, loud and special just like any vintage instrument. It's a loud and biting record that showcases frontwoman Kimberly Freeman's cold, at times sweet vocals. Doused in a gloomy, dark atmosphere, it brings solid metal, punk and even a bit of blues rock in tow. Thanks to this combination, the band expertly delivers tracks that are catchy, melodic and can easily grab your attention.

Cloudkicker: Beacons

Okay, Cloudkicker officially has my vote for being one of the sickest metal bands offering music for free online. Even more impressive perhaps is the fact that there's only one guy manning all the luscious mayhem you hear when you hit the play button. Ben Sharp, aka Cloudkicker, has been winning praises and reviews from artists and enthusiasts everywhere thanks to his consistent, enjoyable and innovative sound. Beacons is his second album and was released a couple of years ago in 2010. Featuring 10 loud instrumental progressive rock tracks, you'll find the record as a good distraction you'll want to entertain for a long time.

Slowdance: Light & Color EP

Ready for some explosive eletro pop? Slowdance's debut EP Light & Color is a mirror reflection of the group's hip and funky sensibility. Slowdance is a five-piece, Brooklyn-based band composed of Quay Quin-Settel (Vocals), Kyle McKeveny (Guitar), Thomas Quigley (Bass), Luke Fox (Synth), and Sam Koppelman (Drums). Released last September 21, 2011, the album offers four teasing tracks of energy filled pop tunes.

Les Vinyl: Thinking Overthinking

Les Vinyl is a band you turn to for some fun alternative indie rock. Hailing from Staten Island, New York; the group likes to keep things simple with a traditional band setup. The quartet delivers a sound that's every part familiar indie rock yet with beautiful catchy hooks and a quirky touch. It's this mixture of simplicity and eccentricity that makes the band a worthy act to watch out for. ThinkingOverThinking is their latest effort and features music that's reminiscent of early Weezer (including the cheeky lyrics.)

The Big Steal: Evan Williams Nights

Evan Williams Nights is the debut compilation for Middle England band, The Big Steal. The entire album is self-produced and was written over a certain period when the artist was calling Virginia his home. Comprising of songs that tackle various topics like "running, self-loathing and the magic of American lawn games;" the album is a 10-track record that has its merits. With carefree alternative pop punk tracks, you'll find the album good company for days you just want to lounge around and enjoy the sun.

Death In Texas: We Will Implode EP

Exploding into the scene with a heavy power pop, progressive sound is sometimes enough to get you noticed. Indeed, Death in Texas offers that "look and listen to me" vibe from the very moment that you start up their first song. We Will Implode EP is their first mini compilation. It contains 4 tracks that work great as a sneak preview into their energetic rock/theatre-like sound. The record was released last July 16, 2011 and is the perfect piece to kickstart a good, happy day.