Alternative

White Owl: Pepper

White Owl is a Russian folk core group that creates some funky folk rock music. Equipped with different tastes in music, ranging from alternative, indie, hardcore, disco and folk, the band's music is a result of this diverse musical fusion. Pepper was released a couple of years back and comes with quirky, upbeat and fun tracks that's sure to get you moving.

Cologne Commons 05: Compilation

Here's another cool compilation from Cologne Commons that you can sink your teeth into. Cologne Commons Compilation 05 is a mix of indie pop, electronic ambient sounds that carefully showcases some of the best netlabel acts Germany has to offer. This awesome festival is a great place where businesses, artists, musicians and netlabels gather to celebrate everything and anything creative commons represents.

Dylan Rodrigue: Stars and Scars EP

Known for his vocal work on indie rock trio, The Shreds, Dylan Rodrigue tries his hand on solo work. Stars and Scars EP is a 4 track compilation filled with the characteristic sweet voice of Rodgue, coupled with indie folk guitar work and a slight rockish feel. The album showcases Rodigue's capability as a solo artist and features tracks ranging from indie rock to moody, quiet folk music. Perfect music for an afternoon escape.

MARCH: Démo juin 2010

Catchy indie pop rock with a streak of bitterness. Composed of Swiss natives, Xavier on vocals; Jerome and Seymour on guitars; Pierre-Yves on bass; and Vincent; March makes their debut with a demo that includes three upbeat indie pop rock tracks. Filled with bitter, moody lyrics along with a nice blend of acoustic electronic sound; this demo from March deserves 25 minutes or more of your time.

Jay Bennett: Kicking at the Perfumed Air

Talented singer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and band member, Jay Bennett, presents us with his final work, Kicking at the Perfumed Air. This new album (released posthumously by his family after his untimely death in May 2009) is a collection of 11 beautiful, somber, melodic tracks, released according to Bennett's own production notes and preference. It is a raw and emotionally charged compilation that is endearing even to those who are not familiar with Bennett's work. Best known for his contributions in twice Grammy nominated band, Wilco, Bennett has become a respected and well-known musician in his own right. Releasing five albums in total after leaving the band in 2001 as well as contributing to various albums from other artists; he has solidified himself as a musician that is truly worth respecting and listening to.

Sean Wright: BROKEN

Indie folk tracks from the crusader of free, legal music. Sean Wright is what you would call a constant advocate of the free music parade. The talented singer/songwriter and record producer has been a staple presence in the free music scene. Since 2007, he's been releasing one album a month and so far, he's still going strong. Almost his entire discography can be downloaded for free on sites like Jamendo. He has remained a constant presence on the online music scene and was also hailed by NME as a leading DIY artist.

Aaahh Records: Remix is Love

Charming indie netlabel Aaahh Records is currently revamping their site. The good news is that before going off the net for a bit, they left us with this awesome compilation called Remix is Love. It's made up of some of the best tracks from their artists and if you're familiar with aaahh records, they dish out nothing but the best folk/ indie pop artists out there. Their current roster includes Entertainment for the Braindead, Uniform Motion, Emilie Lund, Keyboard Rebel, and The Wind Whistles. Of course, since it's a remix, most of the tracks sound nowhere from the original; making it interesting and fresh. If you are used to the sweet, folk pop sound of these bands' original sound, this is a refreshing way to hear or see them in a new light.

Pinkle: Invertible

Sweet indie acoustic with charming lyrics and beautiful melodies. Post-doc student, Byrn Martin with his crew, moonlights as Pinkle; creating lovely acoustic indie music with endearing vocals and lyrics. Invertible is the group's current official release. It's a compilation of DIY tracks collected for over 5 years. If you ever need an album to play to help kickstart that relaxing, no-work afternoon, then this should be on your list.

Power und Beauty: The Gnome EP

Power und Beauty is an all-female dreamy folk pop act that plays with weird instruments. The Gnome EP is the group's first EP. It's filled with beautiful vocal harmonies and even lovelier melodies. These four very talented ladies joined forces to showcase this wonderful 4 track EP. Expect a fair share of whimsy, angelic vocal harmonies and a whole lot of accordion playing on this one. It's definitely something to enjoy as you pass the afternoon away.