Downbeat

Jenova 7: Dusted Jazz Volume One

Valerie
Smooth jazzy trip hop at its finest, Dusted Jazz Volume One is a compilation of 5-tracks created by LA based trip-hop artist, Jenova 7. Combining a laid-back jazz tone with some gorgeous beats, you're bound to enjoy at least one track from this eclectic piece. Dusted Jazz Volume One is released under Dusted Wax Kingdom Label and came out back in October 2011. It served as a bridge for Jenova 7's debut record, Soul For Sale, which is available for purchase here and his The Sounds of Sector 7 album.
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Strange Mangers: Strange Mangers

Valerie
Quiet, post rock group from Boston, Strange Mangers, finally releases their melancholic and hypnotic self-titled debut compilation. Listening to the band's sound, you'll capture a whiff of melodic guitars, coupled with hazy vocals and an expansive range of sounds that seem to take you from dreamland, reality, and back. Although the band is still new and there's hardly anything about them online, their sound is enough to convince listeners that their post rock sound is worth checking out and listening to. Their album is currently available for free at BandCamp.
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Saint Bernard: The Spirit of the Stairs

Valerie
A quick Google search about Saint Bernard (the band) and you'll most likely not end up with much useful information. It's too bad since it would be nice to find out more about them and their sound. Despite the lack of info, their music is enough of a treat for those who take a listen. The Spirit of the Stairs is a lovely collection of indie pop rock tracks. There are 10 songs you can enjoy and each one is accompanied with a lovely acoustic vibe. Perfect for quiet mornings or if you're feeling a bit reflective; it's easy to pop on the album and simply let the melodies take you away.
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Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler (Traveler’s Diary): The Traveler and The King

Valerie
Don't be fooled by the long and complicated looking name, The Traveler and The King is actually a pretty lovely record for many jazz alternative folk lovers out there. Originally calling themselves, Stadtmusikantin und Sterntaler, the band now goes by the easier to pronounce name, Traveler's Diary. This is a debut record for the band. It was released in BandCamp on December 2010 and features a whole range of sounds. You can expect some acoustic percussions, a slight touch of prog, jazz and even folk sprinkled on here.
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Flights: Anywhere But Where I Am

Valerie
If you're expecting some alternative punk duo to greet you when you listen to this record, then think again. What you'll find instead is a gorgeous blend of ethereal, folky indie pop sound that, well, sounds great as in-flight music. The band is actually made up of duo Eric Hillman and Brian Holl. Gathering influences from bands like Broken Social Scene, Radiohead, Bon Iver, Bjork and Aqualung; the duo echoes off the same laid-back, melodic and sometimes eclectic indie folk as their influences. Anywhere But Where I Am comes with 13 tracks and was released over at BandCamp on New Years Day 2012.
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Night Reports: You’re All Out

Valerie
Another band that you wouldn't think is composed of only two people at the helm; Night Reports create beautiful indie rock music with a touch of soul. Long time friends, Derrick Brown and Beau Jennings, have both collaborated in various projects before. However, they've never tackled anything similar to Night Reports. Although the collaboration started out slowly, with both of them passing MP3s and recorded files via email and voice message; they eventually compiled what has become You're All Out. The record is a concept album of sorts, as it revolves around an athlete who is down in the dumps and living (and reliving) his life in his glory days.
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Thefft: The Primer EP

Valerie
The newest release from ambient electronic netlabel, Cut Records, is from Thefft. It seems the artist has been brewing underground for awhile and now he's ready to show off his skills with his EP, The Primer. Much of the hype is warranted though as the album skillfully intertwines beats, bass and synths to create a delightful fusion fit for some good old dancing in a bar or club. The man behind all the glorious beats is Jack Robertson aka. Thefft. Although he's not a full newcomer, he's definitely making the rounds this time and causing a stir. Born in London, he's currently based in New York, creating and producing sonic tracks that are worthy of a listen.
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Immortal Beats: Sample Your Mind EP

Valerie
This isn't just the latest compilation from Immortal Beats, it is a compilation that certainly deserves a listen. Sample Your Mind is a 14-track record that combines easy-listening R&B with some smooth vocal samples. Released back in 2010, the album is perfect for those comfy and relaxing nights where you just want to sit back, drink a glass of bubbly with your partner and enjoy the evening. Released back in 2010, the album is perfect for those comfy and relaxing nights where you just want to sit back, drink a glass of bubbly with your partner and enjoy the evening. Immortal Beats is a German producer that definitely knows his way around smooth and ready-to-mingle beats. He has released 5 records so far and each one of them merits a listen. However, if you want something to get you started, Sample Your Mind is a good place to start.
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