Folk

(Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Jewel)

Freakish Atlantic: Siren Songs

German band, Freakish Atlantic, specializes in mellow and dreamy electro indie pop that wraps around you like a comfortable hug on a cold winter morning. Filled with a fusion of electronica and folkish new wave, you wouldn't think to imagine that the entire EP was actually recorded right inside a bedroom one "rainy summer in 2011." Standing behind-the-scenes for the band are Berlin musicians, Marius Gutowski and Florian Sekula. Siren Songs is a 5 track compilation that can easily pass for a night capper or something you leave playing as you drift off to dreamland.

Deplasticoverde

I may not understand full sentences of Spanish but there's something about Deplasticoverde that's quite intriguing and special. Deplasticoverde is a special project spearheaded by Carolina Espinoza. A young Spanish artist that released her debut EP in 2010 under Ponk Records. Shaped by folk and pop influences, the album undulates with beautiful acoustic guitars and sweet singing from the artist. Her songs are simple but they abound with meaningful vocals and some spunky attitude which is enough to make you want to listen even if you have no clue what she's singing about.

Branches: Merry Christmas

Holiday cheer taking a long time to sink in? Take a listen to this short but charming Merry Christmas EP from Branches. It'll help put you in the mood for the holidays. This mini-compilation gathers 4 songs that have become staple Christmas carols through the years and putting the Branches touch to it. The group is made up of a bunch of "best friends-turned-bandmates." Together they create a lovely indie folk rock sound while adding a nice home grown touch. Coupled with mostly acoustic guitars and beautiful vocals, you are sure to feel the Christmas spirit around you.

Kopecky Family Band: Embraces EP

A "family" since 2007, the Kopecky Family Band is a beautiful gathering of 5 boys and 1 girl who sing melodic indie pop rock that will certainly put you in a good and relaxing mood. The band hails from Nashville, TN and evolved after plenty of late nights sharing and talking about dreams. Since their formation, the group has performed for several big ticket events such as CMJ, SXSW and Bonnaroo. This is the first out of three EPs the six-piece have released so far. This one is a couple of years old but it retains that same quiet beauty that most listeners will surely fall for.

Big Wilson River: Octopus Album

At first listen Big Wilson River’s Octopus Album packs a jarring punch. After adjusting to a somewhat stylistically predictable album, which is best described as a jerky and frantic folk/rock hybrid, a zealous melody and original narrative begins to merge. Powerful instrumentals are aided by forceful lead singer Darrin Bradbury who at times dominates the vocals with a strained shout. Despite, he is paired with Emma McLaughlin who has a soft yet strong voice, something similar to the enticing and hypnotic effect of Adele.

The Freak Fandango Orchestra: Tales Of A Dead Fish

Making their second appearance here in Frostclick, the gypsy folk, Barcelona band are back with a new record. The Freak Fandango Orchestra is an energetic and quirky bunch of musicians who like to play fun and unusual music. Their first record Love, Death and a Drunken Monkey was entertaining and came doused with beautiful instrument work and amusing lyrics. For their latest release, Tales of a Dead Fish, they retain their crazy upbeat sound, still incorporating humor, superb instrument work and a very catchy beat to every single one of their cuts.

The Colorful Quiet: My World With You EP

The Colorful Quiet is a one-man band manned by Stephen K. Webster. He handles both the guitars and vocals; performing beautiful strip down tracks that are both impressive and endearing. My World With You - EP might be a short 5-track compilation but it's enough to convince any acoustic folk pop lover that this one is worth keeping. The artist has released several compilation under his name since 2001. In fact, this short EP is the first one he ever came out with. Most of the short compilations are offered for free but the full albums are often available for a short (but definitely worth it) price.

Dylan Pratt: Lifters & Leaners

It's always exciting to stumble upon a record that you know will be a part of your daily music routine for a long while. Dylan Pratt and his album, Lifters & Leaners, is one of those records. The album is a first for the singer/songwriter. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a soft and melodic voice along with beautiful lyrics; the album is the perfect capper after a long hard day at work. It also features quite a few guest musicians helping him complete the songs. Much of the record is composed of sweet, acoustic classic folk. So expect this album to be your perfect companion on dreary days, when all you want to do is cuddle in the comfort of your bed or maybe stay-in and enjoy a quiet evening.

The Dimes: The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry

The Dimes have revamped boring history classes into a pristine musical collection. Composed of Johnny Clay, Pierre Kaiser, Kelly Masigat, Ryan Johnston, Tucker Jackson, Anthony Powell and Matt Farina, this American folk-pop collective from Portland, Oregon has been likened to the old country charm and sixties pop sensibility. After their debut album Silent Generation which is based on old newspaper articles, The King Can Drink The Harbour Dry is another literary experimentation that offers a steady doze of early Boston history.