Alternative

Tense Kids: Oh, Idaho!

Valerie
Oh, Idaho! is a sweet and eclectic sounding compilation by three teens from Lexington, KY. Filled with 7 easy to listen and very diverse indie pop/rock, this debut compilation is a great listen. It features a great mix of indie pop vocals, quirky sounding vocals and pretty cool and catchy rhythm. Tense Kids is made up of Alex John and Joe Harbison. They're joined together by Eric Myers, Kyle Randall, Allen Shariaty, Dimitri Lozovoy and Aaron Graham. The group formed in late 2008 and spearheaded by Harbison, who also has several albums under his name. His songs are available for download here.
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Gino Pertot: Jew Nails

Natalie
There are bands who never get discovered and there are artists who create their art only for themselves. Gino Pertot belongs to that second group and so it should come with no surprise that his Austrian psych-folk album Jaw Nails have never hit the mainstream - that is until Golden Pavilion Records, which reissues rare and often overlooked late 60's and 70's psychedelic, progressive, acid-folk and art-rock music, came across this lost gem after more than 34 years. The album was privately pressed (with only 200 copies) in 1976 and mostly given into the hands of friends with sporadic give always at concerts. The Golden Pavilion Records call the Jaw Nails one of the rarest Austrian LPs, and it's music honest and spontaneous, crossing paths between fragile folk and psychedelic dark undertones with a touch of glam, expressive lyrics and fleeting guitar lines. And as a little tribute to the artist, Golden Pavilion has released a limited 600 copies of the album in black vinyl and an additional 100 copies in coloured golden brown vinyl. The digital version can be downloaded for free.
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The Wild: Set Yourselves Free

Valerie
These four Atlanta natives have a penchant for making complaining and criticism seem fun and positive. The Wild is a quartet made up of Kylee on drums, Dianna on vocals, Ben on bass and Steve on Banjo. Described by Asia Man Records as "four punks from Atlanta sing songs from the heart, à la Jason Anderson and Ghost Mice. Political, but not preachy. All members are quite active in their DIY community.." the group is not only making an impression in their own label, but also to a lot of indie music lovers online. Set Yourselves Free includes 8 tracks that contain a mix of indie folk and pop music. Each track seems like a blissful serenade at first impression but when you listen closely, it's actually filled with personal and relevant musings about life, people, relationships and politics. Cool album to check out.
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Chris Skinner – Moscow Satellites

Valerie
Moscow Satellites is a short 5-track compilation from Chris Skinner. This record is actually a concept album from the artist. It's the first set of tracks he's put together after his band 6point4 as well as Life Support ended in 2008. The record was initially released back in 2009. If you listen closely, you'll hear that John Mayer similarity. Of course, in my opinion, the tracks on this record have more of a personality to them. Besides, at least we won't have to swallow all of the unnecessary information about Mayer's love life. Anyway, Chris Skinner definitely knows how to create beautiful cuts that are not only filled with intriguing guitar work but also coupled with his heartfelt vocals. Give it a listen.
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San Miguel: Primavera Sound Music 2011

Natalie
Tents, amazing food, crazy outfits, dancing, drinking, and great music that turns thousands of people into your soon-to-be closest new friends; sounds like a ready-made vacation. And if you want to feel like a part of this summer music festival 'movement' be sure to check out the new mix from Primavera Sound. Since crossing into the new year the Primavera Festival already released its preliminary lineup for 2011, and as many of the artists also have some of their mp3s available on the Free Music Archive, Primavera Sound put together a little free album of what is coming up this year.
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Farmertan: Brace for the Decline

Valerie
These Connecticut natives are at it again. This time around, Farmertan, has brought their latest recording in tow, Brace for the Decline. Some of their previous albums include the alternative indie rock compilation, The Extended Play and the acoustic infused, The Softer Side, just to name a few. This 8 track compilation sees the boys doing what they do best; creating indie alternative rock tracks that feature upbeat tempos and nice beats. This record, like most of their releases, are available for free download under a creative commons license. Farmertan is made up of Paul Daddario on Vocals/Guitar; Mike Fitzgerald on Guitar/Vocals; Matt Galvin on Bass Guitar and Jim Plouffe on Drums.
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Intercontinental Music Lab: IIML Goes to War

Valerie
The Intercontinental Music Lab has finally come out with their latest effort. A compilation of 14 tracks that combine folk, pop, rock, alternative, jazz and everything in between. Intercontinental Music Lab Goes to War is the latest effort from this experimental group. Basically, the group/organization has been around since 2008 and has released five previous albums. Each record revolves around a theme or concept, which musicians or groups can pick a subject from and create music about. It's much more detailed than that of course, but the result is nevertheless, an epic collaboration between musicians and artists. This is one great record to have by your side whether you're heading out to war or not.
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Sunday Chocolate Club: You Look Much Better Undressed

Valerie
German trio, Sunday Chocolate Club, establishes their brand of punk, power pop and indie rock. You Look Much Better Undressed is the group's second EP. It contains four tracks that are filled with rolling drums, fast and danceable beats, slightly nasal Brit singing and just good fun. The group was formed back in 2005 as remnants of bands, The Purse and Twist got together. This EP only contain 4 tracks but they are enough to showcase where the band is good at: creating danceable punk pop
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netBloc Volume 31: Goodbye, Hello

Valerie
BlocSonic once again releases their infamous collection of lovely, free tracks that music lovers everywhere can enjoy. The label unleashes several compilations throughout the year. This includes, maxBlocs, which consist of promotional maxi singles; Originals; Extended Editions, Extras and netBlocs, like this one. This is the 31st netBloc from them so far. For compilations like these, they gather up about 10 or more indie artists from all over the world; offering a peek at the music they play in the album. It's definitely an awesome way of discovering potential new playlist staples. The record is available for free download under three formats, simply choose which one you most prefer and enjoy!
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